2 ms·
Cool stuff. However, the first thing I wondered was "does it use variable pitch props so I can get it to autorotate?" Our volocopters are fitted with a res
by benjamincburns 13y ago
Cool stuff. However, the first thing I wondered was "does it use variable pitch props so I can get it to autorotate?"
Our volocopters are fitted with a rescue system in the form of
a parachute which safely lets the entire aircraft sink to the ground
in the case of an emergency. At helicopters in contrast, is the main
rotor in the way.
-- http://www.e-volo.com/information/safety-concept http://www.e-volo.com/information/safety-concept
This (combined with an emergency back-up battery) is probably better than a traditional helicopter for low-altitude power failures, but worse for higher-altitude. With a main engine failure at sufficient altitude, a helicopter pilot can reverse the pitch of the main rotor so that it builds momentum while the craft falls. During the decent the pilot also has control over the craft, so he/she can hopefully avoid trees, power lines, etc. Finally, at the end of the decent the pilot is able to reverse the pitch of the blades again, turning the stored momentum back into downward thrust, safely landing the craft.
- ominous_prime 13y agoI think lack of autorotation would make this idea dead in the water. Very low altitude failures would also be dangerous, as parachutes are hard to deploy without a few hundred feet to spare. Also currently, all single engine helicopters must be able to complete an autorotation to get certified. I'm not sure where this would stand though, since it may end up as an experimental category aircraft. A clarification for those who haven't seen one, an autorotation is less about falling than gliding. You have very good control, though you do only get one shot at the landing. A quick search brought up this video with a few landings: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E2a9H8Xw8Mo http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E2a9H8Xw8Mo
- benjamincburns 13y agoYes. Also, Smarter Every Day's Helicopter Physics series on YouTube had one of the best explanations of autorotation I've seen: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k7u8m0Qpn38 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k7u8m0Qpn38