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3.1.  GENERAL

If developing vertical flight has proved as simple as the idea itself, the helicopter undoubtedly would have been the first practical aircraft in the field. In its first form, the helicopter was conceived by Leonardo da Vinci in the early 1500's. Figure 3.1 shows a sketch of his idea. In his notes da Vinci used the Greek work helix, meaning a spiral, and he is believed to have combined this word with the Greek work pteron, meaning wing. It is from this combination of Greek words that our word helicopter is derived.

Figure 3.1. Leonardo da Vinci Sketch of a Helixpteron.

Development proved too difficult and complicated for the early experimenters because they did not have an engine that could ensure flight. When larger, lighter, and more reliable engines were developed, the dream of a helicopter became a reality.

The same laws of force and motion that apply to fixed wing aircraft also apply to the helicopter. Controls for the helicopter are complex, and torque, gyroscopic precession, and dissymmetry of lift must be dealt with. Retreating blade stall limits the helicopter's forward airspeed.

This chapter presents a basic discussion on helicopter controls, velocity, torque, gyroscopic precession, dissymmetry of lift, retreating blade stall, settling with power, pendular action, hovering, ground effect, translational lift, and autorotation.

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