FLIGHT LIMITATIONS IMPOSED ON SINGLE ROTOR AND COAXIAL HELICOPTERS BY THE LIFT EQUATION

Abstract To compute the maximum speed threshold for helicopters, we model the lift produced by the rotor blades. Using this model, we derive limits for each method traditionally used to alleviate dissymmetry of lift. Additionally, we find the minimum rotor angular velocity required to produce a prescribed lift at a given forward velocity. We derive conditions on the coefficient of lift for helicopter airfoils that maintain altitude. Further considerations are also made with regard to the properties of the air and its effect on helicopter dynamics.