Method to detect mechanical faults and dynamic instability in rotor systems of helicopters, tilt rotor aircraft, and whirl towers

摘要

This method uses revolution to revolution blade track height and timing data to determine mechanical and dynamic stability, mal-adjustment, and faults in a vertical lift aircraft rotor system with a plurality of blades. Raw data are processed from tracking devices to improve their resolution then sorted in a way as to remove the chaotic character of the data and provide coherent and/or relatively linear data sets. Faults and failure can be discovered in a plurality of ways including graphic displays presentations of the data. Graphic displays provide a significant amount of information to even those with little experience in the art. Data collection and analysis is very rapid. The data can be used within moments after collection. Most of the data required to access the rotor system can be taken at hover and/or on the ground. Significant operational, safety, and cost saving are achieved.