Lateral Rollover Protection Concepts

摘要

Helicopter accidents in which the aircraft rolled over laterally are costly in aircraft damage. U.S. Army helicopter accident reports involving lateral rollover for a 6-1/2-year period were analyzed to determine their significant characteristics such that design concepts for rollover protection could be identified. The results of the accident analysis were applied to portions of crash survival specifications and design concepts for rollover protection. Dynamic rollover, when the aircraft is light on its landing gear, was investigated using computer simulation to identify pertinent parameters. A quick response from the pilot to reduce main rotor thrust is the primary means available for recovery. A preliminary evaluation of the KRASH computer simulation program was done for the rollover environment. Design concepts that either prevented the occurrence of a rollover accident or minimized the dangers to the occupants as the aircraft rolled over were investigated. An automatic rollover sensing and correction system was investigated. Wing and wide landing gear concepts can provide increased rollover resistance. Means of preventing hazardous main rotor pylon motion during a rollover accident were also investigated. (Author)