Hermes: A Generic Coupling Framework with Applications to Rotor Aeromechanics

A highly extensible coupling framework for analysis of complex systems called Hermes is introduced. An overview of how the coupling framework functions is provided along with a description of a selection of relevant solver modules available for use within Hermes. The application of Hermes to electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft vibration analysis is performed using notional models combining a linear structural dynamic fuselage response with rotor dynamics obtained from a comprehensive solver. The rotor blades are assumed sufficiently stiff as to be rigid. The effect stiffening a wing on which rotors are mounted is examined and found to substantially reduce vibrations across the majority of the vibration spectrum.