Vortex wakes of rotorcraft

Abstract : This paper presents an overview of the complex unsteady vortical flows that comprise the wakes of rotary-wing aircraft; of the effects these tangled vortical structures have on the performance, noise, and vibration; and of some of the recent attempts to measure, predict, and control the phenomena. The main points are illustrated with a number of examples from the recent literature and technical conferences. (AN)