The helicopter – efficiency or efficacy?

Purpose – This paper reflects the design characteristics of helicopters and how each addresses the requirements of efficiency in operation and the ability to perform these operations effectively.Design/methodology/approach – The basic requirements of a helicopter are discussed. A survey of the various rotorcraft configurations follows. A brief perusal of possibilities for the future concludes the paper.Findings – The helicopter appears in various guises. Each version is designed to a particular brief and fulfils its own particular purpose.Originality/value – The paper content is generally available from the various rotary wing texts both in print and within libraries. The originality comes from the assembly of these items within one paper which attempts to highlight the particular difficulties faced when designing rotary wing aircraft