Obtaining the 3D geometry of the blade in a training aircraft

Abstract

The blade whose task is to generate together with the hub engine thrust is one of the most important construction elements of a propulsion unit in the PZL 130 Orlik trainer The design of appropriate profiles of the blade determines its efficiency and thus is one of the most important construction tasks due to complex blade shapes. After designing and manufacturing the blade, it is advisable to tests any possible geometric deviations in the model blade. It is also essential to carry out tests to specify changes in its geometry after a specified number of flying hours to inspect the risk of damage to the blade during its operation. Moreover, a number of studies are conducted on icing which occurs on the airframe and the blade itself. The aim of this paper is to present a technique of 3D scanning applied to the training aircraft blade so as to copy its precise geometry after a specified period of operation. Scanning enables the use of a created geometry for numerical analyses, in particular of icing during aircraft operation. The Nikon Maker MMDx scanner and the GeoMagic Design X Software were used to create the 3D model and scan the blade of the PZL 130 Orlik training aircraft.