Efficient Implementation of a Helicopter Hingless Rotor Model with Active Trailing Edge Flaps for Control Design

Abstract

This paper describes the implementation of a simplified hingeless helicopter rotor equipped with trailing-edge flaps, tailored for active control design. The model was built under Matlab and Simulink and has been validated against the more comprehensive model CAMRAD II (Comprehensive Analytical Model of Rotorcraft Aerodynamics and Dynamics) and flight test data [11]. The integration of blade-element aerodynamic forces has been implemented in closed-form for increased computational efficiency and higher accuracy. The model is found to replicate essential features of the original model. Our model is also found to be easily linearised by built-in Matlab linearisation tools, which facilitates the control design task and controller implementation. In order to demonstrate the benefits of the implemented model, this paper provides a brief example of designing and implementing a $\mathscr{H}_{\infty}$ mixed-sensitivity controller for vibration reduction.