AutoGyro Cavalon
DLR operates the AutoGyro Cavalon D-MGTD to research the flight dynamics of gyrocopters.
A gyrocopter uses the airstream to rotate its rotor blades and thereby generate lift. In contrast to helicopters, the rotor is not moved by an engine, but by the airflow when flying forwards. The forward movement provides the necessary airflow to turn the rotor blades and keep the gyrocopter in the air.
Gyroplanes are characterised by high stability at low speeds and are ideal for slow, precise flights, which is ideal for aerial surveillance and photography. They do not require dedicated runways and can take off and land over short distances, while their low energy consumption reduces operating costs. They also offer a controlled glide in the event of an engine failure, which increases their safety.
The flight principle of gyroplanes is both simple and ingenious, but there are still many unanswered questions that make research particularly exciting.
The Cavalon is not only being used for test flights to investigate the physics of flight, but is also being tested for its suitability for everyday applications, such as aerial surveillance tasks.
Kontakt
Dr.-Ing. Holger Duda
Per Ohme