Anti-icing and de-icing component based on active air entraining of super-hydrophobic microstructure and use method

Abstract

The invention belongs to the technical field of anti-icing and deicing, and discloses an anti-icing and deicing component based on active air entraining of a super-hydrophobic microstructure and a using method.The anti-icing and deicing component comprises a component front edge structure and a control assembly, the component front edge structure is located in a front edge area of an easy-to-freeze component of outdoor equipment, and the outer surface of the component front edge structure is provided with the super-hydrophobic microstructure; a cavity is formed in the front edge structure of the component, two sets of micropores are symmetrically formed in the front wall of the cavity in the horizontal direction of the component in the vertical direction, air guiding pipes are arranged on the upper side and the lower side of the inner wall of the cavity and correspond to the positions of the two sets of micropores, one ends of the two air guiding pipes extend into the cavity, and pipe openings face the corresponding micropores. And the other ends of the two air entraining pipes are detachably connected with an air entraining source. According to the anti-icing and de-icing component based on active air entraining of the super-hydrophobic microstructure and the use method, icing is prevented by changing the dynamic characteristics of incoming flow air and water drops without depending on direct heating of the skin.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of anti-icing and de-icing technology, specifically to an anti-icing and de-icing component based on active air entrainment using a superhydrophobic microstructure and its usage method. Background Technology

[0002] Outdoor equipment such as drones and airplanes are vulnerable to icing when operating in icy weather conditions. Supercooled cloud droplets can easily impact the windward surfaces of critical components and rapidly freeze, seriously jeopardizing equipment safety. This not only damages aerodynamic shape, reduces lift and efficiency, and increases drag, but can also lead to blade damage and equipment shutdown. Additionally, icing on the windshield can impair visibility, and icing on instrument sensors can cause equipment malfunctions or data distortion, and even induce work accidents. Given the sudden and catastrophic nature of high-altitude icing, it is necessary to equip equipment prone to icing with a fast, safe, reliable, and efficient anti-icing and de-icing system to ensure equipment safety during operation.

[0003] Currently, the main anti-icing methods for outdoor equipment include thermal anti-icing, mechanical de-icing, and superhydrophobic surface anti-icing. Research in the field of outdoor equipment anti-icing shows a trend of shifting from single active anti-icing to active-passive coupling and the development of high-performance passive anti-icing technologies. Specifically, traditional active anti-icing technologies are mature and widely used, but they generally suffer from high energy consumption, system complexity, increased design and manufacturing costs for outdoor equipment, and the potential for continuous hot and cold cycles and vibrations to reduce the service life of the equipment's skin materials. Thermal and electrothermal anti-icing require continuous consumption of large amounts of energy, and hot gas anti-icing systems require complex pipes, valves, and control systems, increasing the takeoff weight of outdoor equipment. At the same time, the processing technology is complex and maintenance is difficult. Passive anti-icing technologies, such as superhydrophobic surfaces, have become a research hotspot due to their low energy consumption, environmental potential, and material innovation. Superhydrophobic surfaces achieve effects such as delayed icing, reduced ice adhesion strength, and promoted droplet bouncing through their special microstructure and surface chemistry. However, if they are to be applied to real aviation environments, the following problems still exist.

[0004] The micro- and nanostructures of superhydrophobic surfaces are extremely fragile, and their anti-icing function is highly dependent on their microstructure. However, existing fabrication methods mostly focus on building ideal micro- and nanostructures to achieve superhydrophobicity, neglecting structural strength and coating adhesion. Not only is the mechanical strength of the microstructure itself weak, but the adhesion between the coating and the substrate may also be weak. Under actual mechanical forces such as airflow erosion, sand erosion, and rain impact, they are easily damaged, leading to rapid failure of hydrophobic properties. On the other hand, the anti-icing properties are easily lost under extreme conditions, such as high humidity, continuous impact of supercooled water droplets, or extremely low temperature environments. In such environments, the air trapped by the surface microstructure is replaced by water, triggering Wenzel-state wetting, which causes a sharp increase in ice adhesion and ultimately leads to the loss of ice-repellent properties. From a mechanistic perspective, the hydrophobicity of a superhydrophobic surface is only a necessary but not sufficient condition for ice-repellent properties: the icing process involves complex interfacial phenomena such as ice nucleation, ice crystal growth, and interfacial adhesion. The anti-icing mechanisms it relies on, such as delayed icing, are only effective under static or mild icing conditions. When outdoor equipment passes through icy clouds or other dynamic and continuous icing scenarios, it cannot completely prevent the formation and accumulation of ice. Summary of the Invention

[0005] (a) Technical problems to be solved To address the shortcomings of existing technologies, this invention provides an anti-icing and de-icing component and its usage method based on active air entrainment using superhydrophobic microstructures. It has advantages such as low energy consumption, simplified system, high anti-icing efficiency, extended lifespan of superhydrophobic coatings, and adaptability to complex dynamic icing conditions. It solves the problems of high energy consumption and complex systems in traditional active anti-icing technologies, poor mechanical stability of superhydrophobic surfaces under real working conditions, and the difficulty of adapting single-principle anti-icing technologies to dynamic and continuous icing scenarios such as outdoor equipment passing through icy clouds, which cannot completely prevent ice formation and accumulation.

[0006] (II) Technical Solution To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solution: an anti-icing and de-icing component based on active air intake using a superhydrophobic microstructure, comprising a component leading edge structure and a control component. The component leading edge structure is located in the leading edge region of an outdoor device prone to icing. The outer surface of the component leading edge structure is provided with a superhydrophobic microstructure, and the interior of the component leading edge structure is provided with a cavity. The front wall of the cavity is symmetrically provided with two sets of micropores along the horizontal direction of the component. The axial direction of each set of micropores is inclined forward and upward with respect to the incoming flow direction. On the upper and lower sides of the inner wall of the cavity, corresponding to the positions of the two sets of micropores, air intake pipes are respectively provided. One end of each air intake pipe extends into the cavity and the pipe opening faces the corresponding micropore. The other end of each air intake pipe is detachably connected to an air intake source. The outer surface of each air intake pipe is provided with an electrically controlled valve, a pressure regulator, and a flow sensor electrically connected to the control component along its own axial direction.

[0007] Preferably, the control component includes an icing detector, an atmospheric data computer, and a controller. The icing detector is disposed on the outer surface of the leading edge structure of the component to detect local icing conditions, and the controller controls the opening and closing and the opening degree of the electronically controlled valve and the pressure regulator according to the input signals of the icing detector and the atmospheric data computer to adjust the bleed air flow and pressure.

[0008] Preferably, the icing detector is either an optical or a microwave non-contact sensor.

[0009] Preferably, the superhydrophobic microstructure includes an alloy plate and a plurality of microstructures disposed on the outer surface of the alloy plate. The size of a single microstructure is 10μm-100μm, and the static water contact angle between the surface of the microstructure and water is greater than 150° and the roll-off angle is less than 10°.

[0010] Preferably, the airflow pressure drawn from the air source is 200-600 kPa and the temperature is 100-300°C.

[0011] Preferably, the diameter of a single micropore is 0.1mm-2mm, the spacing between two adjacent micropores is 5mm-15mm, and the distribution range of the two sets of micropores covers the stagnation line of the leading edge structure of the component and the area above and below the stagnation line. The jet airflows of the two sets of micropores converge 5-15cm in front of the leading edge structure of the component to form an aerodynamic barrier. The axial direction of one set of micropores is inclined forward and upward at an angle α with the incoming flow direction, and the axial direction of the other set of micropores is inclined forward and upward at an angle β with the incoming flow direction. The degree of the included angles α and β is 0°-45°.

[0012] Preferably, the micropores are cylindrical, conical, or gradually expanding trumpet-shaped.

[0013] This invention also provides a method for using an anti-icing and de-icing component based on active air entrainment using a superhydrophobic microstructure. The method comprises the following steps: S1: In actual operation, the icing detector and the atmospheric data computer work continuously to monitor and calculate the current environmental parameters in real time and transmit the data to the controller. The controller then calculates and predicts the icing probability and intensity under the current environment. At this time, the control components are in a low-power standby state, and the electronically controlled valves, pressure regulators and flow sensors remain closed. S2: When the controller calculates that the probability of icing in the external environment exceeds the preset safety threshold or the icing detector directly detects the presence of supercooled water droplets, the controller sends an opening signal to the electronically controlled valve, pressure regulator and flow sensor. The electronically controlled valve opens slowly, and the airflow is regulated as it passes through the pressure regulator to keep the airflow within the optimal pressure range preset by the controller. Then the airflow is delivered to the cavity through the air intake pipe. S3: After the airflow enters the cavity, it is ejected from two sets of micro-holes and converges 5-15cm in front of the leading edge structure of the component to form an aerodynamic barrier. S4: The aerodynamic barrier creates a low-speed turbulent zone at the leading edge of the component, causing tiny supercooled water droplets to decelerate and collide within the low-speed turbulent zone, coalescing into larger supercooled water droplets. After the large supercooled water droplets impact the surface of the superhydrophobic microstructure, due to the small impact kinetic energy of the large supercooled water droplets and the dominance of the surface tension of the water droplets themselves, they cannot wet the microstructure, thus maintaining an extremely high contact angle. Under the action of airflow shear force, they roll off or bounce off the surface of the microstructure, unable to stay and freeze. At the same time, the heat energy carried by the airflow makes the surface temperature of the leading edge of the component higher than the ambient temperature, further inhibiting the formation of water droplet ice. S5: The controller continuously receives data feedback signals from the icing detector and the atmospheric data computer. If the icing intensity increases, the opening of the electronically controlled valve is increased to improve the airflow. The pressure regulator is also adjusted to increase the airflow pressure. At the same time, the pressure regulator and the flow sensor can provide real-time feedback on the airflow pressure and flow, allowing staff to monitor the airflow pressure and flow status in real time. If the icing intensity weakens or the airflow leaves the icing area, the controller reduces the opening of the electronically controlled valve and the pressure regulator to save energy. If the icing threat is eliminated, the opening of the electronically controlled valve and the pressure regulator is reduced until they are closed. The flow sensor is also turned off, and the control components return to the low-power standby state in S1.

[0014] Preferably, the icing probability in S2 exceeds 50% of a preset safety threshold.

[0015] Preferably, the aerodynamic barrier in S4 causes supercooled water droplets with a diameter of 10 μm–50 μm to coalesce into water droplets with a diameter greater than 100 μm.

[0016] (III) Beneficial Effects Compared with the prior art, the present invention provides an anti-icing and de-icing component based on active air entrainment of superhydrophobic microstructure and its usage method, which has the following beneficial effects: 1. This anti-icing component and its application method based on active air intake using superhydrophobic microstructures do not rely on direct heating of the skin. Instead, they prevent icing by altering the dynamic characteristics of the incoming airflow and water droplets. Specifically, airflow is introduced into the middle of the air source through an air intake pipe and ejected through micro-holes, forming an aerodynamic barrier at the leading edge of the component. This actively intervenes in the water droplet impact process, significantly reducing the impact velocity and kinetic energy of the water droplets. Furthermore, it causes tiny water droplets to pre-aggregate into larger droplets before impacting the surface. These larger droplets, with their larger contact angle and weaker adhesion, can easily roll off the hydrophobic coating. This effectively solves the fundamental contradiction that relying solely on the coating cannot prevent the accumulation of supercooled small water droplets, thus failing to prevent icing. This greatly improves the reliability and practicality of superhydrophobic microstructure technology under real-world working conditions. Moreover, the establishment of the aerodynamic barrier effectively slows down the velocity of the water droplets relative to the component and directly... The impact of water droplets on the kinetic energy of the microstructure is reduced, providing a buffer zone for the fragile microstructure and greatly extending its service life. The air pressure and temperature in the middle of the high-pressure rotor of the air source are moderate, which can provide sufficient momentum and heat while avoiding the waste of materials and energy due to excessive temperature. In addition, the appropriate amount of heat energy carried by the air in the middle can provide the surface with a temperature slightly above the freezing point, further inhibiting icing. At the same time, combined with the hydrophobic properties of the superhydrophobic coating itself, a composite anti-icing mechanism is constructed with active aerodynamic management as the main method and passive hydrophobicity and micro-thermal assistance as the auxiliary methods. This mechanism does not rely on a single principle, but achieves an organic integration of aerodynamic, thermal and surface chemical effects. It can cover the anti-icing needs under different icing scenarios and avoid the performance limitations of traditional single technologies under complex and variable icing conditions. It achieves seamless coverage of anti-icing effect in time and space, and greatly improves the robustness and environmental adaptability of the system. Compared with traditional static anti-icing of superhydrophobic surfaces, this invention intervenes at the source of water droplet impact. By starting micropore ventilation at the leading edge of the component structure, water droplets are slowed down and aggregated. The principle is novel and the anti-icing efficiency is high. Through aerodynamic and gas-thermal effects, the supercooled small water droplets flowing in front are transformed into large water droplets, and the impact speed on the component surface is reduced, which greatly extends and ensures the effectiveness of passive anti-icing measures.

[0017] 2. This anti-icing and de-icing component based on superhydrophobic microstructure active air intake and its usage method prevents icing by changing the dynamic characteristics of incoming air and water droplets. Its core actuator is the micropores in the leading edge structure of the component. This structure itself is simple and robust, requiring no complex internal flow channels or expensive special materials. Through this simplified end design, combined with the reduction in air intake quality requirements, the entire system is significantly reduced in terms of weight, manufacturing cost, and potential failure points, improving the system's maintainability and reliability. It avoids the problems of traditional hot air anti-icing systems that rely on complex pipe networks, dedicated jet pipes, and corresponding heat insulation and control systems throughout the component, resulting in large system weight, high manufacturing cost, and complex maintenance and inspection. At the same time, the high-pressure gas from the heat source greatly reduces the high energy consumption of traditional hot air de-icing and improves the overall efficiency of outdoor equipment. Attached Figure Description

[0018] Figure 1 This invention presents a schematic diagram of airflow movement for an anti-icing and de-icing component based on a superhydrophobic microstructure with active air entrainment and its usage method. Figure 2 This invention proposes an anti-icing and de-icing component based on a superhydrophobic microstructure with active air entrainment and its usage method. (Schematic diagram of surface openings on the component). Figure 3 This invention presents a schematic diagram of an anti-icing and de-icing component based on a superhydrophobic microstructure with active air entrainment and its usage control assembly. Figure 4 This invention proposes an anti-icing and de-icing component based on active air entrainment of a superhydrophobic microstructure and its usage method. (Enlarged schematic diagram of the opening at the leading edge of the component.) Figure 5 This invention proposes an anti-icing and de-icing component based on a superhydrophobic microstructure with active air entrainment and its usage method. Schematic diagram before airflow meeting. Figure 6 This invention presents a schematic diagram illustrating the reduction of supercooled water droplet velocity using an anti-icing and de-icing component based on active air entrainment via a superhydrophobic microstructure and its application method. Figure 7 This invention proposes an anti-icing and de-icing component based on active air entrainment using a superhydrophobic microstructure, and its usage method. (Schematic diagram of supercooled water droplet aggregation is also provided.) Figure 8 This invention proposes an anti-icing and de-icing component based on a superhydrophobic microstructure with active air entrainment and its usage method. (Schematic diagram of the superhydrophobic microstructure is shown.) Figure 9 This invention provides a flowchart of the operation of an anti-icing and de-icing component based on a superhydrophobic microstructure with active air entrainment and its usage method.

[0019] In the figure: 1. Leading edge structure of component; 2. Control component; 201. Icing detector; 202. Atmospheric data computer; 203. Controller; 3. Superhydrophobic microstructure; 301. Alloy plate; 302. Microstructure; 4. Cavity; 5. Micropore; 6. Air intake tube; 7. Pressure regulator; 8. Electrically controlled valve; 9. Flow sensor. Detailed Implementation

[0020] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0021] The component leading edge structure 1 of the present invention is the core carrier of the anti-icing function, directly corresponding to the parts of outdoor equipment such as airplanes and drones that are prone to icing, such as the leading edge of the wing and the edge of the windshield, etc. It does not refer to a single component. The following description takes the leading edge of the wing as an example. Example 1: Please refer to Figures 1 to 9This invention provides a technical solution: an anti-icing and de-icing component based on active air intake using superhydrophobic microstructures, comprising a leading edge structure 1 and a control component 2. The leading edge structure 1 is located in the icing-prone leading edge region of the wing. A superhydrophobic microstructure 3 is disposed on the outer surface of the leading edge structure 1. The superhydrophobic microstructure 3 includes an alloy plate 301 and multiple microstructures 302 disposed on the outer surface of the alloy plate 301. The size of a single microstructure 302 is 10μm-100μm. The static water contact angle between the surface of the microstructure 302 and water is greater than 150°, and the roll-off angle is less than 10°. A cavity 4 is disposed inside the leading edge structure 1. Two sets of micropores 5 are symmetrically arranged vertically along the horizontal direction of the component on the front wall of the cavity 4. The diameter of a single micropore 5 is 0.1mm-2mm, and the spacing between two adjacent micropores 5 is 5mm-15mm. The distribution range of the two sets of micropores 5 covers the stagnation line of the leading edge structure 1 and the areas above and below the stagnation line. The jet airflow from the two sets of micropores 5... The leading edge structure 1 converges 5-15 cm in front, forming an aerodynamic barrier. One set of micropores 5 has an axial direction inclined forward and upward at an angle α with the incoming flow direction, and the other set of micropores 5 has an axial direction inclined forward and upward at an angle β with the incoming flow direction. Both angles α and β are between 0° and 45°. The micropores 5 are cylindrical, conical, or gradually expanding trumpet-shaped. The axial direction of each set of micropores 5 is inclined forward and upward with the incoming flow direction. The upper part of the inner wall of the cavity 4... On both sides below, air intake tubes 6 are respectively provided at the positions of the two sets of micropores 5. One end of each air intake tube 6 extends into the cavity 4 and the tube opening faces the corresponding micropore 5. The other end of each air intake tube 6 is detachably connected to the air source. The air pressure drawn out by the air source is 200-600kPa and the temperature is 100-300°C. Each air intake tube 6 has an electrically controlled valve 8, a pressure regulator 7 and a flow sensor 9 that are electrically connected to the control component 2 along its own axial direction on its outer surface. In the above technical solution, the component leading edge structure 1 can be exemplarily applied to the wing leading edge. When this structure is used on the wing leading edge, the air intake source can be directly the aircraft's onboard compressor. When the component leading edge structure 1 is applied to other outdoor equipment parts prone to icing, the air intake source can be other hot air sources with a pressure of 200-600 kPa and a temperature of 100-300°C. In actual use, the superhydrophobic microstructure 3 is arranged on the outer surface of the wing leading edge skin as a basic passive protective layer for anti-icing and de-icing. The alloy plate 301 inside the superhydrophobic microstructure 3 serves as the base of the microstructure 302, providing mechanical support to ensure that the superhydrophobic layer can withstand the mechanical environment during outdoor equipment operation. The microstructure 302 has a size of 10μm-100μm, which can form an air cushion on the surface, reducing the contact area between water droplets and the solid surface and reducing adhesion. The force and its contact angle >150° ensure that the water droplets are spherical rather than spread out, and the roll-off angle <10° ensure that the water droplets can roll off under slight airflow or gravity, reducing the water droplet residence time from the source. The shorter the residence time, the lower the probability of icing. The air intake pipe 6 can be installed inside the cavity 4 at the leading edge of the wing. The front wall of the cavity 4 is symmetrically arranged with two sets of micro-holes 5 along the horizontal direction of the wing. After the air intake pipe 6 introduces the air source from the aircraft air compressor into the cavity 4, the cavity 4 can buffer and distribute the delivered airflow, avoiding the direct impact of a single airflow on the micro-holes 5, which would cause uneven spraying. The distribution of the micro-holes 5 is to cover the stagnation line and the upper and lower sides of the leading edge of the wing. The stagnation line is the area where the airflow impact is most concentrated and the water droplets collide most frequently at the leading edge of the wing. The two sets of micro-holes 5 cover this area and the sides, which can ensure that the aerodynamic barrier can completely cover the high-risk icing area. Please see Figure 4The axial direction of the micro-orifice 5 forms an upward and forward tilt at angles α and β, both ranging from 0° to 45°. It's worth noting that this upward and forward tilt allows the jet airflow to directly act on the path of the incoming water droplets, maximizing the momentum exchange efficiency between the airflow and the droplets. If the direction is incorrect, the airflow may avoid the droplets, failing to achieve the deceleration and aggregation effect. The angle range of 0°-45° balances barrier coverage distance and momentum intensity. A smaller angle, close to 0°, allows the airflow to extend further forward, suitable for large wings; a slightly larger angle, close to 45°, results in more concentrated airflow, suitable for small wings. In practical applications, the processing angle of the micro-orifice 5 can be adjusted according to the different wing sizes. The shape of the micro-orifice 5 can be cylindrical, conical, or gradually expanding trumpet-shaped. Different orifice shapes allow for fine-tuning of the airflow diffusion angle and speed. For example, a gradually expanding trumpet shape allows for smoother airflow diffusion, expanding the barrier coverage area, while a cylindrical shape is suitable for scenarios requiring concentrated momentum. When applied to the leading edge of wings of different sizes, adjustments can be made accordingly. The selection allows for adaptation to different aerodynamic requirements. The airflow pressure for the micro-orifice 5-ejector compressor is 200-600 kPa, and the temperature is 100-300°C. This pressure range ensures smooth hot air delivery. When the pressure is below 200 kPa, the jet velocity and coverage of the hot air are insufficient. When the pressure is above 600 kPa, the excessive air pressure will generate additional impact loads on the thin-walled structure of the wing leading edge, which may lead to structural deformation or seal failure. At the same time, it will increase the energy consumption and equipment wear of the aircraft's airborne compressor. Meanwhile, the temperature range of 100-300°C can ensure that the wing leading edge can inhibit the icing of supercooled water droplets. If it is below 100°C, it cannot inhibit supercooled water droplets. In the low temperature and high humidity outdoor environment, the de-icing effect will be significantly reduced. If it is above 300°C, it will easily increase the energy consumption of the aircraft's airborne compressor, and will also increase the oxidation of metal parts, thermal deformation or aging of composite materials, and cause local thermal stress concentration, affecting the service life of the equipment. Please see Figures 5 to 7 It should be noted that the air intake pipe 6, by drawing gas from inside the compressor into the cavity 4 and then directionally ejecting it through the micro-holes 5, can form a stable aerodynamic barrier 5-15 cm in front of the wing leading edge. This aerodynamic barrier induces two physical effects that alter the impact process of the supercooled water droplets: firstly, momentum cancellation, which decelerates the water droplets in front; for the deceleration process, please refer to [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 6 The jet airflow exchanges momentum with the incoming airflow, significantly reducing the impact velocity of supercooled water droplets relative to the component. This can reduce the impact kinetic energy of the supercooled water droplets by more than 50%, greatly reducing the amount of water impacted per unit area. Secondly, it promotes the aggregation of supercooled water droplets. For the aggregation process, please refer to [link to documentation]. Figure 7The aerodynamic barrier creates a low-speed turbulent zone in front of the component, causing the originally tiny supercooled water droplets to collide and merge into larger supercooled water droplets. This reduces the number and frequency of water droplets impacting the outer surface of the superhydrophobic microstructure 3 per unit area. Furthermore, the larger supercooled water droplets are less likely to penetrate the narrow gaps in the microstructure 302, helping to maintain a stable Cassie air cushion and preventing premature wetting of the gaps in the superhydrophobic microstructure 3. The large, low-speed supercooled water droplets formed after deceleration and merging, when impacting the outer surface of the superhydrophobic microstructure 3, maintain a very high contact angle due to their low impact kinetic energy and the dominance of surface tension. Under the action of airflow shear force, they easily roll off or bounce off the surface. It should also be noted when referring to the attached figures that… Figures 5 to 7 All arrows in the diagram indicate the direction of the incoming external flow.

[0022] Please see Figure 3 The control component 2 includes an icing detector 201, an atmospheric data computer 202, and a controller 203. The icing detector 201 is disposed on the outer surface of the leading edge structure 1 of the component to detect local icing conditions. The controller 203 controls the opening and closing of the electronic valve 8 and the pressure regulator 7 according to the input signals of the icing detector 201 and the atmospheric data computer 202 to adjust the bleed air flow and pressure. The icing detector 201 is one of an optical or microwave non-contact sensor. The icing detector 201 can be directly installed on the upper and lower sides of the wing leading edge near the micro-hole 5, allowing it to directly detect local icing conditions on the wing leading edge surface, such as the presence of supercooled water droplets or the initial formation of ice, providing a basis for icing risk assessment. The icing detector 201 is an optical or microwave non-contact sensor, avoiding the problem of probe failure due to icing in contact detection methods, ensuring continuous and stable operation in icy environments. In practical use, taking the microwave non-contact sensor as an example, the icing detector 201 can accurately and in real-time monitor the object being measured without contact. The icing state and related parameters of the target surface provide data support for operational decisions and can accurately distinguish between different scenarios such as dryness, water accumulation, thin ice, thick ice, and snow accumulation. The atmospheric data computer 202 can acquire macroscopic environmental parameters such as airspeed at the wing leading edge, ambient temperature, flight altitude, external temperature, and the presence of visible humidity. These parameters are key to determining whether icing meteorological conditions are met. Combined with local data from the icing detector 201, a dual judgment of macroscopic environment and local state is formed, avoiding misjudgment based on single data. The controller 203 performs calculations on the atmospheric data computer 202. The transmitted fused data is processed in real time. First, based on the historical icing database and real-time parameters, the current icing probability is calculated, and the icing development trend in the next 5-10 minutes is predicted. Then, based on the calculation results, precise control commands are output to directly regulate the opening and closing status and opening degree of the electrically controlled valve 8. When the icing probability is higher than a set threshold, the electrically controlled valve 8 is opened, and the opening degree is adjusted according to the icing risk level to control the gas supply. If the icing probability is lower than the threshold, the electrically controlled valve 8 is closed, realizing on-demand start-up and energy-saving operation. At the same time, the pressure regulator 7, which is electrically connected to the control component 2, is also controlled by the controller 203. The system can dynamically adjust the pressure in real time according to the icing intensity. When the icing is strong, the pressure is increased to strengthen the barrier, and when the icing is weak, the pressure is decreased to save energy. The flow sensor 9, which is electrically connected to the control component 2, can detect the gas flow in real time. It can detect the gas flow data in the gas inlet pipe 6 and cavity 4 in real time and feed the data back to the controller 203 in real time. This data serves as an auxiliary basis for pressure adjustment, helping the controller 203 to more accurately judge the gas supply status. On the other hand, it can realize fault early warning. When the flow rate fluctuates abnormally, the controller 203 can quickly identify and trigger an alarm, improving the reliability of the system operation.

[0023] This invention also provides a method for using an anti-icing and de-icing component based on active air entrainment using a superhydrophobic microstructure. The method comprises the following steps: S1: During the actual operation of the wing leading edge, the icing detector 201 and the atmospheric data computer 202 work continuously to monitor and calculate the current environmental parameters in real time and transmit the data to the controller 203. The controller 203 calculates and predicts the probability and intensity of icing at the wing leading edge under the current environment. At this time, the control component 2 is in a low-power standby state, and the electronically controlled valve 8, pressure regulator 7 and flow sensor 9 remain closed. S2: When the controller 203 calculates that the probability of icing in the external environment of the wing leading edge exceeds the preset safety threshold or the icing detector 201 directly detects the presence of supercooled water droplets, the controller 203 sends an opening signal to the electronically controlled valve 8, the pressure regulator 7 and the flow sensor 9. The electronically controlled valve 8 opens slowly, and the airflow is regulated when it passes through the pressure regulator 7 to keep the airflow within the optimal pressure range preset by the controller 203. Then the airflow is delivered to the cavity 4 inside the wing leading edge through the air duct 6. S3: After the airflow enters the cavity 4 at the leading edge of the wing, it is ejected from two sets of micro-holes 5 and converges at 5-15cm in front of the leading edge of the wing to form an aerodynamic barrier. S4: The aerodynamic barrier creates a low-speed turbulence zone at the leading edge of the wing, causing tiny supercooled water droplets to decelerate and collide within the low-speed turbulence zone, coalescing into larger supercooled water droplets. After the large supercooled water droplets impact the outer surface of the superhydrophobic microstructure 3 at the leading edge of the wing, due to the small impact kinetic energy of the large supercooled water droplets and the dominance of the surface tension of the water droplets themselves, they cannot wet the microstructure 302, thus maintaining an extremely high contact angle. Under the action of airflow shear force, they roll off or bounce off the surface of the microstructure 302, unable to stay and freeze. At the same time, the heat energy carried by the airflow makes the temperature of the outer surface of the leading edge of the wing higher than the ambient temperature, further inhibiting the formation of water droplet ice. S5: The controller 203 continuously receives data feedback signals from the icing detector 201 and the atmospheric data computer 202. If the icing intensity increases, the opening of the electronically controlled valve 8 is increased to increase the airflow rate. The pressure regulator 7 is adjusted to increase the airflow pressure. At the same time, the pressure regulator 7 and the flow sensor 9 can also provide real-time feedback on the airflow pressure and flow rate, allowing staff to monitor the airflow pressure and flow rate status in real time. If the icing intensity weakens or the airflow leaves the icing area, the controller 203 reduces the opening of the electronically controlled valve 8 and the pressure regulator 7 to save energy. If the icing threat is eliminated, the opening of the electronically controlled valve 8 and the pressure regulator 7 is reduced until they are closed. At the same time, the flow sensor 9 is turned off, and the control component 2 returns to the low-power standby state in S1.

[0024] In step S4, the appropriate amount of heat energy carried by the gas is conducted through the cavity 4 and the leading edge of the wing, making the surface temperature of the component 1-5°C higher than the external ambient temperature, further inhibiting the nucleation of water droplets into ice.

[0025] In step S5, it should be noted that in the standby state, the controller 203 continues to receive data feedback from the icing detector 201 and the atmospheric data computer 202, monitors environmental changes in real time, and ensures that the anti-icing system can be quickly activated once the icing conditions are met again, so as to achieve seamless dynamic protection.

[0026] The probability of icing in S2 exceeds 50% of the preset safety threshold; A 50% threshold can filter low-risk scenarios, such as those that only meet the low temperature requirement but have very few supercooled water droplets, preventing the system from frequently starting and stopping and wasting energy, while also reducing component wear.

[0027] In S4, the aerodynamic barrier causes supercooled water droplets with a diameter of 10μm–50μm to coalesce into water droplets with a diameter greater than 100μm; Small water droplets of 10μm-50μm can easily penetrate the gaps in the superhydrophobic microstructure 3, destroy the air pad, and induce Wenzel state wetting, leading to the failure of ice-repellent properties. After they aggregate into large water droplets >100μm, they cannot penetrate because their size is larger than the gaps in the microstructure 302. Moreover, surface tension dominates, and they easily roll off the superhydrophobic surface, thus completely solving the core problem of small water droplets being unable to prevent penetration.

[0028] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to the details of the exemplary embodiments described above, and that the invention can be implemented in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. Therefore, the embodiments should be considered illustrative and non-limiting in all respects, and the scope of the invention is defined by the appended claims rather than the foregoing description. Thus, all variations falling within the meaning and scope of equivalents of the claims are intended to be included within the present invention, and no reference numerals in the claims should be construed as limiting the scope of the claims.

[0029] Although embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the invention, the scope of which is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An anti-icing and de-icing component based on active air entrainment using a superhydrophobic microstructure, comprising a leading edge structure (1) and a control component (2), characterized in that: The component leading edge structure (1) is located in the leading edge area of ​​the outdoor equipment's easily icing component. The outer surface of the component leading edge structure (1) is provided with a superhydrophobic microstructure (3), and the interior of the component leading edge structure (1) is provided with a cavity (4). The front wall of the cavity (4) is symmetrically provided with two sets of micropores (5) along the horizontal direction of the component. The axial direction of each set of micropores (5) is inclined forward and upward with the direction of incoming flow. On the upper and lower sides of the inner wall of the cavity (4), air intake pipes (6) are respectively provided at the positions of the two sets of micropores (5). One end of each of the two air intake pipes (6) extends into the cavity (4) and the pipe opening faces the corresponding micropore (5). The other end of each of the two air intake pipes (6) is detachably connected to the air intake source. The outer surface of each air intake pipe (6) is provided with an electrically controlled valve (8), a pressure regulator (7), and a flow sensor (9) that are electrically connected to the control component (2) along its own axial direction.

2. The anti-icing and de-icing component based on active air entrainment of a superhydrophobic microstructure according to claim 1, characterized in that: The control component (2) includes an icing detector (201), an atmospheric data computer (202), and a controller (203). The icing detector (201) is disposed on the outer surface of the leading edge structure (1) of the component to detect local icing conditions. The controller (203) controls the opening and closing of the electronically controlled valve (8) and the pressure regulator (7) and the degree of opening based on the input signals of the icing detector (201) and the atmospheric data computer (202) to regulate the bleed air flow and pressure.

3. The anti-icing and de-icing component based on active air entrainment of a superhydrophobic microstructure according to claim 2, characterized in that: The icing detector (201) is one of optical or microwave non-contact sensors.

4. The anti-icing and de-icing component based on active air entrainment of a superhydrophobic microstructure according to claim 1, characterized in that: The superhydrophobic microstructure (3) includes an alloy plate (301) and a plurality of microstructures (302) disposed on the outer surface of the alloy plate (301). The size of a single microstructure (302) is 10μm-100μm. The static water contact angle formed between the surface of the microstructure (302) and water is greater than 150° and the roll-off angle is less than 10°.

5. The anti-icing and de-icing component based on active air entrainment using a superhydrophobic microstructure according to claim 1, characterized in that: The airflow drawn from the air source has a pressure of 200-600 kPa and a temperature of 100-300°C.

6. The anti-icing and de-icing component based on active air entrainment of a superhydrophobic microstructure according to claim 1, characterized in that: The diameter of a single micropore (5) is 0.1mm-2mm, the spacing between two adjacent micropores (5) is 5mm-15mm, and the distribution range of the two sets of micropores (5) covers the stagnation line of the component's leading edge structure (1) and the area above and below the stagnation line. The jet airflow of the two sets of micropores (5) converges 5-15cm in front of the component's leading edge structure (1) to form an aerodynamic barrier. The axial direction of one set of micropores (5) is inclined forward and upward at an angle α with the incoming flow direction, and the axial direction of the other set of micropores (5) is inclined forward and upward at an angle β with the incoming flow direction. The degrees of the angles α and β are both 0°-45°.

7. The anti-icing and de-icing component based on active air entrainment of a superhydrophobic microstructure according to claim 1, characterized in that: The micropore (5) has a shape that is cylindrical, conical, or gradually expanding trumpet-shaped.

8. A method for using an anti-icing and de-icing component based on a superhydrophobic microstructure with active air entrainment as described in any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: S1: During actual operation, the icing detector (201) and the atmospheric data computer (202) work continuously to monitor and calculate the current environmental parameters in real time and transmit the data to the controller (203). The controller 203 calculates and predicts the icing probability and icing intensity under the current environment. At this time, the control component (2) is in a low-power standby state, and the electric control valve (8), pressure regulator (7) and flow sensor (9) remain closed. S2: When the controller (203) calculates that the probability of icing in the external environment exceeds the preset safety threshold or the icing detector (201) directly detects the presence of supercooled water droplets, the controller (203) sends an opening signal to the electric valve (8), pressure regulator (7) and flow sensor (9). The electric valve (8) opens slowly, and the airflow is regulated when passing through the pressure regulator (7) so that the airflow is within the optimal pressure range preset by the controller (203). Then the airflow is delivered to the cavity (4) through the air intake pipe (6). S3: After the airflow enters the cavity (4), it is ejected from the two sets of micropores (5) and converges at 5-15cm in front of the component front edge structure (1) to form an aerodynamic barrier; S4: The aerodynamic barrier creates a low-speed turbulent zone in the leading edge structure (1) of the component, causing the tiny supercooled water droplets to decelerate and collide inside the low-speed turbulent zone, and aggregate into larger supercooled water droplets. After the large supercooled water droplets hit the surface of the superhydrophobic microstructure (3), due to the small impact kinetic energy of the large supercooled water droplets and the dominance of the surface tension of the water droplets themselves, they cannot wet the microstructure (302), thus maintaining an extremely high contact angle. Under the action of airflow shear force, they roll off or bounce off the surface of the microstructure (302), and cannot stay and freeze. At the same time, the heat energy carried by the airflow makes the surface temperature of the leading edge structure (1) of the component higher than the ambient temperature, further inhibiting the formation of water droplet ice. S5: The controller (203) continuously receives data feedback signals from the icing detector (201) and the atmospheric data computer (202). If the icing intensity increases, the opening of the electronically controlled valve (8) is increased to increase the airflow. The pressure of the airflow is increased by adjusting the pressure regulator (7). At the same time, the pressure regulator (7) and the flow sensor (9) can also provide real-time feedback on the airflow pressure and flow, allowing staff to monitor the airflow pressure and flow status in real time. If the icing intensity weakens or the airflow leaves the icing area, the controller (203) reduces the opening of the electronically controlled valve (8) and the pressure regulator (7) to save energy. If the icing threat is relieved, the opening of the electronically controlled valve (8) and the pressure regulator (7) is reduced until they are closed. At the same time, the flow sensor (9) is turned off, and the control component (2) returns to the low-power standby state in S1.

9. The method of using an anti-icing and de-icing component based on active air entrainment of a superhydrophobic microstructure according to claim 8, characterized in that: The icing probability mentioned in S2 exceeds 50% of the preset safety threshold.

10. The method of using an anti-icing and de-icing component based on active air entrainment of a superhydrophobic microstructure according to claim 8, characterized in that: The aerodynamic barrier described in S4 causes supercooled water droplets with diameters of 10 μm–50 μm to coalesce into water droplets with diameters greater than 100 μm.

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