Rotorcraft and VTOL Engineering requires an interaction between a number of different
disciplines like aerodynamics, flight mechanics, structural engineering, design etc.
This lecture addresses the fundamental correlations that play a role in preliminary design. It
will be shown how to dimension main helicopter components based on mission requirements.
Building on this, the iteration steps to further refining of the design will be explained.
At the end of this lecture the participants will have basic knowledge for the preliminary design
of a helicopter. This includes the estimation of empty weight and maximum take-off weight,
installed power, flight envelope as well as the main- and tail-rotor sizing.

Literature

• Stepniewski, W.Z.; Keys, C.N. – Rotary-Wing Aerodynamics
• Prouty, R.W. – Helicopter Performance, Stability and Control
• Johnson, W. – Helicopter Theory
• Leishman, J.G. – Principles of Helicopter Aerodynamics