An Introduction to Rotorcraft Aerodynamics from Udemy

This is meant to be an exposition of the simple, yet elegant models used to understand the working and performance of rotorcraft like helicopters, autogiros etc. Using first principles, thought experiments and the occasional Hollywood video, learners will understand how to gauge the efficiency of a rotor, and how to predict its performance (even on distant planets. ). They will grasp how a rotor operates in climb and how to produce the universal inflow curve. They will gather the necessary tools and techniques to predict the descent rate of a maple seed when it is in an 'autorotative' state. The asymmetries inherent to forward flight will also be covered in detail. Using a hybrid model, they will be learn how to compute the inflow variation across the rotor disk. Students will finally be exposed to the fundamentals of efficient rotor design ('optimum' vs 'ideal' rotors) before an in-depth look into the calculation of typical helicopter performance metrics (maximum speed, service ceiling etc).

The course will cover and use the following three models in a variety of conditions:

(1) Momentum Theory

(2) Blade Element Theory (BET)

(3) Blade Element Momentum Theory (BEMT)

When applicable, lectures will be accompanied with optional Python scripts for interested students to run and extend.

Finally, if you think you'd derive some benefit from this course, but can't afford the price, reach out to me via email and I'll send you a customized free link, no questions asked.

What's inside

Learning objectives

Grasp the physics behind the working of a helicopter rotor under a variety of flight conditions
Using models of increasing complexity, derive expressions linking thrust and power of a rotor to flow and geometry variables

Design 'ideal' and 'optimum' rotors using the blade-element-momentum-theory model
Learn how to estimate important helicopter performance metrics such as climb rates, maximum speed, service ceiling etc

Grasp the physics behind the working of a helicopter rotor under a variety of flight conditions
Using models of increasing complexity, derive expressions linking thrust and power of a rotor to flow and geometry variables
Design 'ideal' and 'optimum' rotors using the blade-element-momentum-theory model
Learn how to estimate important helicopter performance metrics such as climb rates, maximum speed, service ceiling etc

Syllabus

Introduction

Course Overview

Definitions

Momentum Theory

Hover - 1

Hover - 2

Hover - 3

Hover - 4

Profile Power Calculation

Climb/Descent - 1

Climb/Descent - 2

Forward Flight - 1

Forward Flight - 2

Human-Powered Helicopter

Blade Element Theory

BET - 1

BET - 2

BET - 3

Inflow Approximation

Blade Element Momentum Theory

BEMT - 1

BEMT - 2

BEMT - 3

BEMT - 4

Induced Power Losses

Performance

Performance - 1

Performance - 2

Power Sinks

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Suitable for engineering students in mechanical or aerospace programs, along with those entering the field of mechanical design or the field of software testing

Requires strong foundational knowledge of math and physics on the part of the learner

Introduces core theories underlying the working of helicopters, which can be valuable for those pursuing careers in aerospace or mechanical design

Emphasizes calculation and modeling of helicopter performance, which could be a valuable skill for individuals seeking to specialize in the design or analysis of these aircraft

Taught by industry expert Sebastian Thomas with a background in helicopter flight dynamics and aeromechanics, which lends credibility to the course content

Provides optional Python scripts for learners interested in extending the course content, offering opportunities for practical application and deeper engagement

Career center

Learners who complete An Introduction to Rotorcraft Aerodynamics will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Aeronautical Engineer

With the emergence of new commercial opportunities and NASA's planned missions to Mars, the coming years promise to be exciting ones for Aeronautical Engineers. An Introduction to Rotorcraft Aerodynamics can help you build a foundation to enter the field. Concepts such as hover, descent, and forward flight are central topics of study. You will understand the physics at play when a helicopter flies and even design efficient rotors.

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Aerospace Engineer

Becoming an Aerospace Engineer generally requires an advanced degree, such as a Master's or PhD. An Introduction to Rotorcraft Aerodynamics can get you started on your journey to working on manned and unmanned aircraft, satellites, and missiles. Study the first principles of helicopter aerodynamics, as well as a variety of increasingly complex mathematical models like the Blade-Element-Momentum-Theory.

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Research Scientist

As a Research Scientist in the physical sciences, you may analyze rotorcraft design and performance to create innovative solutions for the aerospace industry. Take An Introduction to Rotorcraft Aerodynamics to strengthen your understanding of helicopter aerodynamics. You'll learn how to compute the inflow variation across the rotor disk and how to predict rotor performance.

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Mechanical Engineer

Many Mechanical Engineers work on the design, development, and testing of aerospace vehicles. Get started by taking An Introduction to Rotorcraft Aerodynamics to gain an understanding of first principles and mathematical models used to understand the performance of helicopters. You will also be introduced to concepts such as the calculation of typical helicopter performance metrics.

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Systems Engineer

Systems Engineers work on complex systems like helicopters. While An Introduction to Rotorcraft Aerodynamics does not cover every kind of system found on a helicopter, it will introduce you to core concepts of rotorcraft aerodynamics, including momentum theory, blade element theory, and blade element momentum theory.

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Engineering Manager

An Introduction to Rotorcraft Aerodynamics may be useful for Engineering Managers in the aerospace industry. It offers a comprehensive introduction to a variety of mathematical models used to understand how helicopters fly. Study concepts such as hover, descent, and forward flight.

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Flight Test Engineer

As a Flight Test Engineer, you will be responsible for testing the performance of aircraft. An Introduction to Rotorcraft Aerodynamics may be useful to learn about theories like momentum theory, which will help you predict the performance of helicopters and other rotorcraft.

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Avionics Engineer

An Introduction to Rotorcraft Aerodynamics may be useful for Avionics Engineers who work on helicopters. The core concepts of aerodynamics are explained using thought experiments, Hollywood videos, and Python scripts. Study how to predict rotor performance, even on distant planets.

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Manufacturing Engineer

An Introduction to Rotorcraft Aerodynamics may be useful for Manufacturing Engineers. It will help you build a foundation in core concepts of helicopter aerodynamics. You will learn about momentum theory, blade element theory, and blade element momentum theory.

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Quality Assurance Engineer

An Introduction to Rotorcraft Aerodynamics may be useful for Quality Assurance Engineers in the aerospace industry. With concepts such as momentum theory, blade element theory, and blade element momentum theory, this course provides an in-depth understanding of how helicopters perform.

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Systems Analyst

An Introduction to Rotorcraft Aerodynamics may be useful for Systems Analysts who work on software used to design helicopters. You will learn the fundamentals of efficient rotor design and how to gauge the efficiency of a rotorcraft's performance. Explore the physics behind helicopter rotors and how they are optimized to produce lift and control.

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Technical Writer

An Introduction to Rotorcraft Aerodynamics may be useful for Technical Writers in the aerospace industry. The course covers a range of topics, including the calculation of typical helicopter performance metrics. Gain the knowledge to write clear and concise documentation of helicopters' performance capabilities.

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Patent Attorney

An Introduction to Rotorcraft Aerodynamics may be useful for Patent Attorneys who specialize in the aerospace industry. You will gain a foundational understanding of helicopter aerodynamics, including concepts such as momentum theory, blade element theory, and blade element momentum theory.

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Science Teacher

An Introduction to Rotorcraft Aerodynamics may be useful for Science Teachers who want to incorporate real-world applications of physics into their curriculum. The thought experiments and Hollywood video clips used in the course can help to make the concepts of aerodynamics more engaging and accessible to students.

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Science Writer

An Introduction to Rotorcraft Aerodynamics may be useful for Science Writers who want to specialize in aviation or aerospace. The course provides a comprehensive overview of the aerodynamics of helicopters, including the calculation of typical performance metrics. This knowledge will enable you to accurately and effectively communicate the complexities of helicopter flight to a non-technical audience.

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