Rotary-Wing Brownout Mitigation: Technologies and Training (Remedes contre le phenomene de brownout sur les appareils a voilure tournante: Technologies et entrainement)

摘要

The RTO HFM-162 Rotary-Wing Brownout Mitigation Task Group was formed to examine the effects of Rotary-Wing Brownout (RWB) and whiteout on pilots during operations. Brownout is the condition developed by recirculating rotor downwash as a helicopter lands or takes off in an arid or a snowy (whiteout) environment. The dust, dirt, or snow that is developed by the downwash renders out-the-cockpit visibility severely degraded or non-existent. The resultant mishaps due to the Degraded Visual Environment (DVE) are a serious problem and partner nations report losses of aircraft and personnel. This study was undertaken to investigate the incidence and severity of the problem in partner nations, to examine and document current and planned technology developments, and to evaluate and document the brownout training procedures within NATO. To provide a true, multi-purpose helicopter sensor, the TG members envision laser radar technology integrated with a navigation forward looking infrared radar. Intuitive hovering and landing cockpit display symbology, such as that described in this report, must also be an integral part of an effective system for DVE landings.