Helicopter Lessons: Dynamic Rollover

Introduction

• Instructor: Jacob
• Topic: Dynamic rollover in helicopters

Static Rollover

• Definition:
  • Static rollover is when an object rolls over from a stationary position.
• Requirements:
  • A pivot point
  • A critical angle
• Example:
  • A dining room table:
    • When lifted, it has a center of gravity above the ground.
    • Pushing it creates a pivot point.
    • Once the center of gravity moves beyond the pivot point, it exceeds the critical angle and will roll over.
• Application to Helicopters:
  • Helicopters have a higher center of gravity (engines, rotor system).
  • A critical angle (e.g., 15 degrees) can lead to static rollover if exceeded.

Dynamic Rollover

• Definition:
  • Dynamic rollover involves rolling motion in addition to pivot point and critical angle.
• Key Elements:
  • Pivot point
  • Critical angle
  • Rolling motion
• Example with Helicopters:
  • Helicopter engines running, rotor spinning, helicopter sliding (either direction).
  • Introduced pivot point when contacting an object (e.g., rock).
  • Critical angle is reduced due to motion (Newton’s third law: an object in motion stays in motion).
  • Rolling motion increases the risk, possibly reducing critical angle to 10 or 5 degrees.
  • Leads to a dynamic rollover with potential destruction.

Conclusion

• Importance:
  • Understanding dynamic rollover is crucial as it can occur easily.
• Next Steps:
  • Part two will cover:
    • Causes of dynamic rollover
    • Physical and human factors
    • Strategies to avoid it
• Availability:
  • Part two will be linked in the next video description.

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Note: Static and dynamic rollovers are critical concepts in helicopter piloting, emphasizing the importance of understanding aircraft motion and balance. Stay tuned for further details in the next session.