Rotational Speed Optimization of Coaxial Compound Helicopter and Turboshaft Engine System

Abstract

In order to enhance the overall performance and operational efficiency of the integrated coaxial compound helicopter and turboshaft engine system, a preliminary study on the optimal rotational speeds was implemented based on multidisciplinary integration. First, the flight mechanics model of coaxial compound helicopter and the aerothermodynamic model of turboshaft engine were developed. Then, the minimum fuel flow of the turboshaft engine was selected as the optimization objective, and an integrated optimization method of optimal rotational speeds based on the golden section method was proposed according to fixed ratio transmission (FRT) and continuously variable transmission (CVT). Finally, the effect of the optimal rotational speeds on the overall performance of the integrated system was investigated, and the variation laws of the optimal rotational speeds under different operating modes were revealed. The results indicated that the optimal rotational speeds can decrease engine fuel flow by a maximum of more than 10%, which is conducive to promoting operational economy and overall performance. Moreover, the flight conditions, helicopter weight, and engine degradation significantly affect the optimal main rotor speed.