OVERAIR, INC. — Department of Defense SBIR Phase I: N231-017

Description

Individual Blade Control (IBC), enabled by multiple technologies, offers a major breakthrough for rotorcraft, which can significantly improve the aerodynamic performance of the rotor system. This technology offers the potential to significantly reduce vibratory loads as well as increase efficiency, reduce noise, and enhance flight control, making it particularly attractive for both commercial and military rotorcraft applications. However, the practical implementation of IBC presents significant challenges in terms of effecting a robust, fault-tolerant system that can provide the elevated design assurance levels necessary for widespread adoption.  The proposed solution is the development of a high-integrity, IBC architecture that utilizes a unique trajectory-based control scheme in conjunction within a multi-channel, digital communications network.  This approach minimizes key technical challenges that arise due to rotating frame boundary that partitions the flight control computers (FCCs) from the hub-mounted IBC actuation system.  The technical work to be undertaken within N231-017 is the advancement of a high-integrity, trajectory-based IBC system with a specific focus on development of safety-critical architecture.  To meet these objectives Overair proposes to conduct system safety analysis and simulate key failure modes to ensure the implementation of a design which can support safe flight and landing in the presence of potential failures. Finally, a practical and reliable hardware platform for the servo controller and actuator motor and the associated software will be developed as well as the associated digital data buses and networking switches in the rotating frame.  These elements acutely comprise key technologies that require additional development to allow for the practical implementation of a high-integrity IBC-system for commercial and future military applications. The proposed system will be developed and tested initially in a System Integration Lab (SIL) and subsequently on a propulsion system test rig, which permits operational trials in a relevant environment. A trajectory-based IBC system is a transformative technology for rotorcraft. The development of this system is an important step towards the practical implementation of IBC technology for commercial and military applications and aligns with the DoD's goal of developing advanced rotorcraft technology.