THE LATEST THINKING
Every story.
Browse our articles in publication order, with new stories added automatically.
Basics 1 min read
Antitorque Drive Systems
The antitorque drive system consists of an antitorque drive shaft and a antitorque transmission mounted at the end of the…
Basics 2 min read
Antitorque System
Helicopters with a single, main rotor system require a separate antitorque system. This is most often accomplished through a variable…
Basics 1 min read
Freewheeling Unit
Since lift in a helicopter is provided by rotating airfoils, these airfoils must be free to rotate if the engine…
Basics 1 min read
Swash Plate Assembly
The purpose of the swash plate is to convert stationary control inputs from the pilot into rotating inputs which can…
Basics 1 min read
Tandem Rotor
Tandem rotor (sometimes referred to as dual rotor) helicopters have two large horizontal rotor assemblies; a twin rotor system, instead…
Basics 3 min read
Fully Articulated Rotor System
Fully articulated rotor systems allow each blade to lead/lag (move back and forth in plane), flap (move up and down…
Basics 2 min read
Rigid Rotor System
The rigid rotor system shown in Figure 4-3 is mechanically simple, but structurally complex because operating loads must be absorbed…
Basics 2 min read
Semirigid Rotor System
A semirigid rotor system is usually composed of two blades that are rigidly mounted to the main rotor hub. The…
Basics 1 min read
Main Rotor System
The rotor system is the rotating part of a helicopter which generates lift. The rotor consists of a mast, hub,…
Basics 1 min read
Helicopter Components, Sections, and Systems
Airframe The airframe, or fundamental structure, of a helicopter can be made of either metal, wood, or composite materials, or…
