Evaluation of Two Different Active Twist Simulation Models Using Experimental Data

Abstract

In the framework of the European Union Project Friendcopter, an active twist model rotor blade has been built using Macro Fiber Composite (MFC) actuators to generate the twist. The actuators are embedded into the upper and lower blade skin and as a feature each pair of actuators - consisting of one lower and upper actuator segment - can be controlled individually. Both models discussed in the paper are able to capture the effects of such an individual actuator control. Based on whirl tower test data, the paper gives a detailed evaluation of both simulation models. It is demonstrated that considering the blade dynamics for the application of an active twist control, an increase in blade tip deflection can be achieved.