Lockheed Martin Corporation
Hybrid rotor shaft for a vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft

Abstract:

A rotor shaft for a vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft having a rotor system includes a body having a first end connectable to the rotor system, a second end, and an intermediate portion defining an outer surface and an inner surface extending between the first end and the second end. The body is formed from a first material. A stiffness enhancing layer is applied to one of the outer surface and the inner surface. The stiffness enhancing layer includes a second material other than the first material. The second material has a modulus of elasticity that is about 16E6 psi (116 GPa) or greater.