Development of a Rotor Simulation Model for a Next-Generation Helicopter

This thesis outlines the development of a Flight Simulation Model for a next-generation multi-purpose helicopter within the Matlab/Simulink environment. The project was conducted during an Exchange Program at ZHAW (Zurich University of Applied Sciences) in Winterthur, Switzerland, from September to December 2022. The primary focus of the thesis work revolves around the evaluation and independent management of the Main Rotor modeling, with the subsequent objective of seamless integration into the comprehensive helicopter model. The ultimate aim is the integration of the latter with the ReDSim (real-time Research and Didactics Simulator) at the ZAV Center for Aviation, ZHAW. The initial phases of the project involved modeling and developing mathematical formulations within Matlab/Simulink for the Main Rotor, incorporating the ’Blade Element’ theory model encompassing the flapping dynamics. This allowed to balance the necessity to achieve high-fidelity to real world dynamics while maintaining computational efficiency to meet real-time simulation requirements. Subsequently, an aerodynamic analysis was conducted to evaluate forces and moments transferred on various rotor axes. A dynamic inflow study, employing the Pitt-Peters theoretical model, was conducted in parallel. The entire model underwent consistent and continuous validation through comparisons with data provided by the manufacturer, including experimental results and outcomes obtained from another simulation model of the same helicopter.