Abstract
In this paper, the three-dimensional finite element model is established to investigate the structural dynamic characteristics of rotor blade using a finite element analysis. Six natural frequencies and mode shapes are calculated by computer simulation. The first three flapping modal frequencies, the first two lead-lag modal frequencies, and the first feathering modal frequency are validated through comparison with the modal test results of the fixed rotor blade. The computer simulation results are found in good agreement with experimentally measured natural frequencies. The important results are obtained as follows: (1) Natural frequencies are changed due to the variation of rotational speed and fiber angle of rotor blade, (2) Weak coupling between flapping mode shape and lead-lag mode shape are detected, (3) Centrifugal force has more effect on flapping modal frequency than lead-lag modal frequency.
