Ice Detection via Heater Mat Temperature Rate of Change
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ice detection systems for structures, such as aircraft, are inadequate in accurately and efficiently detecting ice formation and concentration, often relying on optical means or resonant frequency changes, which are not reliable or effective.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus utilizing a heater mat and temperature sensor system, where power is supplied to heat the structure surface above 0°C, and surface temperature characteristics are compared to a model to detect ice, determining concentration based on power differences and temperature changes over time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If optical means or resonant frequency monitoring is used to detect ice formation, then ice detection capability is provided, but reliability and accuracy of detection are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the detection parameter from optical properties or resonant frequency to thermal properties (temperature characteristics). By measuring temperature changes and comparing them against modeled temperature profiles for different ice concentrations, the system achieves more reliable and precise ice detection. The temperature parameter provides direct information about heat transfer through ice layers, enabling accurate concentration measurement.
2Temperature
If heater mat power is increased to heat surface above 0°C, then ice melting capability is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses feedback control by continuously monitoring surface temperature and comparing it to the desired temperature threshold (0°C). The heater mat power is adjusted based on this feedback - power is applied only when and where needed to maintain the temperature threshold, rather than applying maximum power continuously. This optimizes energy consumption while ensuring ice melting capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial action by heating only the specific regions where ice is detected or suspected, rather than heating the entire structure uniformly. The heater mat power distribution is optimized to provide just sufficient heating to maintain surfaces above 0°C, avoiding excessive energy consumption while maintaining effective ice protection.
3Measurement precision
If temperature measurement over time is performed to detect ice, then detection accuracy is improved, but measurement time and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by pre-calculating and storing modeled temperature profiles for various ice concentration conditions before actual detection is needed. During operation, the system only needs to measure the current temperature and compare it against these pre-computed models, rather than performing complex real-time calculations. This reduces measurement time while maintaining high detection precision.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach allows for accurate detection and concentration measurement of ice on structures, enhancing the effectiveness of existing ice protection systems by identifying ice formation and environmental icing conditions, thereby preventing potential catastrophic consequences.
Implementation Method 1
supplying power to a heater mat, the heater mat being in thermal contact with a structure on which ice is to be detected, and the power being sufficient to heat a surface of a structure adjacent the heater mat to greater than 0oC
Implementation Method 2
measuring a surface temperature of the structure adjacent the heater mat over a first period
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to an ice detection system, in particular to a system for detecting icing conditions and a system for detecting the presence of ice formed on a structure, and the methods for doing the same. A method, apparatus and controller to detect the formation of ice on a structure are described. A heater of an ice protection system is driven and the rate of change of surface temperature is measured over several periods. A substantial deviation from a rate of change of surface temperature, which indicates the presence of ice on the surface of the structure, is detected.