Design, Analysis and Prototyping of Active Tab Rotor

Abstract

The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) and The Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI) jointly started activities related to the research and development of “Active Tab,” a helicopter noise reduction technique. KARI constructed the analytical methodology consisting of the aerodynamic, structural dynamic and acoustic codes for defining the requirements to be used in evaluating the performance of Active Tab when installed in a Mach scaled assumed blade. Based on the requirements defined, JAXA carried out a conceptual design study, developed the Active Tab drive mechanism and evaluated its performance. The analytical results show Active Tab satisfying the requirements has sufficient noise reduction capability. Evaluation for the Active Tab drive mechanism demonstrated the dynamic performance and durability required practical use installed in helicopter blades.