Integrated Ice Detector-Heater LRU for Low-Disruption Deicing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ice protection systems for aircraft are inefficient and require separate components for ice detection and de/anti-icing, leading to aerodynamic disruptions and high maintenance costs.
Innovation Solution
An integrated ice detector and ice protection system is developed as a line replaceable unit (LRU) that combines an electric resistance heater element and a sensing element, encapsulated in composite or metallic materials, providing both ice detection and de/anti-icing functionality in a single unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate components are used for ice detection and de/anti-icing, then functional reliability is improved, but device complexity and maintenance costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the ice detection sensor and de/anti-icing heater elements into a single integrated leading-edge unit. The sensor element and heater elements are positioned in close proximity within the same structural component, allowing both detection and protection functions to be performed by a single integrated system rather than separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated leading-edge unit performs multiple functions simultaneously: the sensor element detects ice accumulation while the heater elements provide de/anti-icing protection. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate detection and protection systems, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining reliability.
2Reliability
If separate components are used for ice detection and de/anti-icing, then functional reliability is improved, but maintenance costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the detection sensor and heater elements into a single integrated unit mounted on the leading edge, the system reduces the number of separate components that require maintenance. The integrated design allows for simplified inspection and repair procedures while maintaining the reliability benefits of having both detection and protection functions.
3Reliability
If traditional ice protection systems are used, then ice detection and protection functions are provided, but aerodynamic disruption occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated unit is specifically positioned at the leading edge where ice accumulation first occurs. By concentrating both detection and protection functions at this critical location, the system provides effective ice protection while minimizing aerodynamic disruption to the rest of the airfoil surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from two-dimensional sensor placement to a three-dimensional integrated unit that incorporates both sensor and heater elements within the leading-edge structure itself. This spatial integration reduces the projected area and minimizes aerodynamic interference while maintaining protective coverage.
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
The integrated system efficiently detects and prevents ice formation without disrupting aerodynamics, reducing maintenance complexity and costs by integrating ice detection and de/anti-icing into a single, replaceable unit.
Implementation Method 1
An electrothermal deicing system converts electrical energy to heat the leading-edge surfaces and shed ice by melting the ice at the ice-leading edge interface
Implementation Method 2
The sensing element is disposed in at least one first electrically insulative layer and the sensing element is positioned outward from the electric resistance heater element layer
Data Source
AI summary
An integrated ice detector and ice protection system is provided. The integrated ice detector and ice protection system includes an electric resistance heater element layer, a sensing element, and at least one second electrically insulative layer positioned between the electric resistance heater element layer and the at least one first electrically insulative layer with the sensing element. The sensing element is disposed in at least one first electrically insulative layer and wherein the sensing element is positioned outward from the electric resistance heater element layer.