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Old 8th December 2009 | 20:41
  #541 (permalink)  
Dave_Jackson
 
Joined: Apr 2003
Posts: 1,635
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From: Vancouver, BC, Canada
Mart,

The primary advantage of the Intermeshing over that of Coaxial is the reduced disk-loading for physical identically rotor-disks. In hover, the Intermeshing's larger 'effective disk area' provides a greater efficiency (Figure of Merit). In forward flight, the Intermeshing provides a more equitable disk loading because the rotor-rotor overlap of both rotors is in the 'reverse velocity' region.

I have no ties to any specific configuration, and change concepts of interest faster than changing the bed sheets. Your proposed research into the ABC concept would be challenging and hopefully productive. I would constructively suggest that your focus should be directed toward the segments of the blade that are required to work in the reverse velocity region during fast forward flight. The profile drag and negatively induced lift are the biggest hurdle for the ABC concept; be it Coaxial or Intermeshing.

IMO,the current blades on the X2 are an attempt to 'sweep the problem under the rug' and not an attempt to confront the problem head-on. In all fairness, perhaps the X2 is intended as a working platform upon which ideas to improve the blade can be tested ~ with your help.


Dave
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