Helicopter Lift Equation Lecture

Introduction

• Presenter: Jacob
• Topic: Understanding the basics of the lift equation in helicopter flight
• Objective: To comprehend where lift comes from and its influencing factors, enabling pilots to know what they can and cannot control in-flight.

Lift Equation

Lift is determined by:

• Formula: Lift = Coefficient of Lift x Surface Area x 1/2 x Air Density (ρ) x Velocity²

Key Components of Lift

1. Coefficient of Lift

   • Definition: Measure of the lift a particular airfoil shape can produce.
   • Influencers:
     • Shape of airfoil (blade span, camber, symmetry)
     • Angle of Attack (aerodynamic angle)
   • Pilot Influence:
     • Cannot change airfoil shape in-flight.
     • Can influence Angle of Incidence (mechanical angle) through cyclic and collective inputs, indirectly affecting Angle of Attack.
   • Visual Aids: Recommended videos on compensation for dissymmetry of lift.

2. Surface Area

   • Definition: General surface area of the airfoil or rotor disc.
   • Effect: Larger surface area generates more lift, all else constant.
   • Rotor Coning:
     • Occurs when rotor cones, reducing surface area.
     • Influenced by low rotor RPM, high gross weights, excessive g-forces.
   • Pilot Control: Can manage rotor coning angle by controlling associated factors.

Conclusion

• Covered the basics of the coefficient of lift and surface area.
• Upcoming video will discuss air density and velocity squared.
• Emphasis on understanding pilot control over lift-affecting factors.
• Next Steps: Watch the next video for further details on the lift equation.