Is 'Airwolf' possible with our current technology? (Supersonic Helicopter)

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SUMMARY

The forum discussion centers on the feasibility of creating a supersonic helicopter akin to the fictional 'Airwolf,' which is capable of reaching speeds over Mach 1. Participants highlight the limitations of traditional helicopter designs, particularly retreating blade stall and the need for structural modifications, such as adding wings and a thrust source. Suggestions include using advanced materials like carbon fiber and Kevlar, as well as incorporating technologies like ducted fan jets and AI for stability. Ultimately, while the concept is intriguing, the consensus is that a true supersonic helicopter would likely resemble a fixed-wing aircraft more than a traditional helicopter.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of helicopter aerodynamics, specifically retreating blade stall.
  • Familiarity with supersonic flight principles and challenges.
  • Knowledge of advanced materials such as carbon fiber and Kevlar.
  • Awareness of existing VTOL and STOL aircraft technologies, including tiltrotor designs.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of retreating blade stall in helicopter design.
  • Explore the capabilities and limitations of the F-35B as a supersonic VTOL aircraft.
  • Investigate the CarterCopter and its approach to transitioning from vertical to horizontal flight.
  • Learn about the use of AI in stabilizing advanced aircraft designs.
USEFUL FOR

Aerospace engineers, aviation enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the future of helicopter technology and supersonic flight innovations.

  • #61
phinds said:
Asking a question that makes no sense doesn't make any point that I can see.
Maybe someone else does seem to understand
But i really dont want to bring out the crayons to make you understand
 
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  • #62
airwolflover said:
Maybe someone else does seem to understand
But i really dont want to bring out the crayons to make you understand
Please watch the attitude. Thanks.
 
  • #63
berkeman said:
Please watch the attitude. Thanks.
I appolagice
 
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  • #64
So if i stil may continue?...
The main fusalage is the main displacer/mass body.
It will create the mach angle (at mach 1 its around a 90 degree angle at mach 2 its around a 30 degree angle)
In most cases the rotor is mounted at the top helicopter and the blades sticking beyond the nose of the main fuselage
So even when going under the speed of sound the blades are past and out mach angle
And that fine i guess until we reach certain speeds.
 
  • #65
After this speed the blades needs to be in the angle and if possible the tips need to trace the maximum allowed angle the be still a aficient control surface
 
  • #66
phinds said:
What on Earth is your point with that statement? LOTS of airframes would go over mach 1 if reshaped and with no rotors, just jets engines.

Hell, if you reshaped me (it would take some work) and put a jet engine on me, I could probably go over mach 1.
So if we did this head first rocket strapped and you would keep your arms at 180 degrees at mach 1 they would be at 90 degrees or 45 degree angle each and at mach 2 30 degree from the tip of your head or going of your center bodyline 15 degrees each side
 
  • #67
This has gone beyond ridiculous. I'm outta here.
 
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  • #68
phinds said:
This has gone beyond ridiculous. I'm outta here.
Ah Come on i am trying to explain my point of vieuw nicely now 😲😳
 
  • #69
Thread closed for Moderation...
 
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  • #70
airwolflover said:
So if we did this head first rocket strapped and you would keep your arms at 180 degrees at mach 1 they would be at 90 degrees or 45 degree angle each and at mach 2 30 degree from the tip of your head or going of your center bodyline 15 degrees each side
@airwolflover -- PF is not a playground where you can throw out ideas and personal speculation. This thread is in the technical forums, so all discussion needs to be traceable to the mainstream scientific literature. There have been some good posts in this thread over the years (and some not-so-good ones), but for this thread to be reopened it would require valid references. If you or others have such references, please send me a PM (click on my avatar and "Start a conversation"). Lacking that, the thread will remain closed.
 
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