The Foundations of Helicopter Flight

Book excerpt: The helicopter is a sophisticated aircraft and is therefore demanding on its designers. This unique introductory text charts a journey through the theory, design, construction and operation of helicopters. The difficulties that can arise when the aircraft is considered as a whole are highlighted using many practical examples and case studies. The author examines these problems for situations in which the helicopter is operating on the ground or in flight. The book provides in-depth support for any first course in helicopter engineering. It introduces the principles of rotary wing flight and develops the fundamental equations describing the performance and dynamic behaviour. Essential theories are developed and applied to show how the capabilities and behaviour of a helicopter are influenced by the manner in which rotor characteristics interact with those of the airframe. The author’s broad experience as a design engineer and lecturer combine to produce a book for students, graduates and professionals that conveys not only the essential information but also a real enthusiasm for the subject. Related titles from Edward Arnold Aerodynamics for Engineering Students, fourth edition E L Houghton and P W Carpenter Aircraft Structures for Engineering Students, second edition T H G Megson Edward Arnold