Jun 3 1976
From The Space Library
NASA announced plans to roll out the first of 2 rotor systems research aircraft (RSRA) 7 June at the Sikorsky Aircraft Division in Conn. The RSRA, capable of conventional cruise flight as well as typical helicopter performance, was the product of a joint NASA-Army research program to reduce rotor noise and vibration-with attendant high maintenance costs-and improve performance and cruise speed of future civil and military helicopters. The RSRA was the first helicopter designed with research capability in mind; devices' in the main rotor-support structure would permit accurate measurement of rotor forces in flight, and force measurement systems were also incorporated in the wing, tail rotor, and auxiliary engine to permit measurement and control of the lift and drag of the rotor system. The Army, world's leading user of helicopters, would make the RSRA available to the U.S. helicopter industry for rotor-systems tests; most of the technology would also be applicable to civil vehicles. NASA's goal would be to meet predictions of increased usage in the civil helicopter industry to enable the U.S. to compete favorably in the growing world market. (NASA Release 76-105)
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