HELICOPTER ROTOR Meaning and
Definition
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A helicopter rotor is a vital component of a helicopter that enables it to generate lift and control its movements through the air. It consists of several main parts and mechanisms that work in combination to create the desired forward and vertical motions.
The rotor typically includes multiple blades that are attached to a central hub. These blades are specially designed airfoils shaped like wings, with a curved upper surface and a flatter lower surface. As the rotor spins, it creates a difference in air pressure above and below the blades, thus generating lift.
The hub serves as a central connection point for the blades and connects them to the main rotor mast, which is then connected to the helicopter's engine. The blades are mounted at a slight angle, referred to as the "blade pitch," which can be adjusted to control the helicopter's ascent, descent, and forward or backward movements.
In addition to generating lift, the rotor also enables the helicopter to turn. By manipulating the collective pitch control, which changes the blade pitch simultaneously, and the cyclic pitch control, which changes the blade pitch differently across the rotation cycle, the pilot can alter the lift and thrust of each rotor blade, making one side of the helicopter generate more lift than the other. This asymmetrical lift causes the helicopter to rotate around a vertical axis.
Overall, the helicopter rotor is an essential mechanism that allows a helicopter to achieve controlled flight and perform various maneuvers in the air.
Etymology of HELICOPTER ROTOR
The word "helicopter" originates from the Greek words "helix" meaning spiral or turning, and "pteron" meaning wing. Together, they refer to a type of aircraft with rotating wings.
The term "rotor" comes from the Latin word "rota" meaning wheel. It refers to the rotating part of the helicopter that provides the necessary lift and propulsion.
