Modeling Requirements for Analysis and Optimization of JVX Proprotor Performance

摘要

Existing tiltrotors are based on technology dating back 25 years or more. Present-day analytical and design methods promise useful improvements in performance compared to what was then possible. This paper applies CAMRAD 11 to proprotor performance optimization with different levels of analytical sophistication, ranging from simple momentum theory and combined blade-element/momentum theory to prescribed- and free-wake models; rigid and elastic blade models arc also examined. Variations in blade twist distribution, solidity, taper, sweep and droop are explored. The purpose of the research is to determine the minimum requirements for analytical methodologies for successful optimization. Although the design of an improved rotor is not the immediate objective, design improvements naturally result and so are also discussed. The results of the study will be used to guide research directions in such areas as coupled CFD/CSD and improved sizing codes.