TABLE OF CONTENTS As helicopter dynamics technology has advanced, so too has the size and scope of the dynamist's tool kit. Clear-cut structural-dynamics-related topics have been addressed in the preceding chapters. However, in this chapter we examine topics that are not strictly structural dynamics and/or aeroelasticity, but crossover into and have their impact on these subjects:
Interactions of the rotor/drive system with the engine/fuel control system: The requirements for higher-bandwidth engine control systems have introduced problems requiring a blending of those tools typically in the purview of the control systems dynamist with those of the aeroelastician/structural dynamist.
Aeroelastic optimization: Optimization methodology has matured and is slowly making its way into standard design methodology. The goal of optimization methodology is to mechanize the design process, if even only partially, in order to attack vibration and instability-related problems earlier in the design cycle.
Both of these topics are addressed in this chapter to at least a basic degree so that the problem areas are well defined, and current solution methods are identified. Where possible, additional reference material has been identified for more in-depth study of these topics.
The engine fuel control system of any modern helicopter is typically composed of a variety of servo-controlled subsystems. To a great extent, the details of these subsystems are dictated by the operating characteristics of the free power turbine engine powerplant presently used in all medium- to large-sized helicopters. The detailed dynamic description of any one...
