Multi-Angle Out-of-Focus Imager for Atmospheric Icing Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current interferometric laser imaging techniques are limited in measuring the size of water droplets and ice crystals in the atmosphere, as they can only determine a decade's variation in size due to the large size range and limited performance of existing imagers, failing to meet the regulatory requirements for detecting icing conditions in aircraft.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising multiple out-of-focus imagers with different collection angles and a laser beam with varying thicknesses to capture a broader range of particle sizes, allowing for the determination of water content in the atmosphere, including both liquid and solid particles, and detecting icing conditions by processing images from these imagers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional interferometric laser imaging technique is used, then the measurement range of particle size is limited to approximately one decade, but the required detection range according to regulations is from 5 μm to 2700 μm (over two orders of magnitude)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the particle size measurement task into multiple segments by using multiple imagers with different collection angles. Each imager is optimized for a specific size range: first imagers for smaller particles (5-50 μm) and second imagers for larger particles (50-2700 μm). This segmentation allows the system to cover the full regulatory range while maintaining measurement precision in each segment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new dimension to the measurement system by varying the collection angle of the imagers. Instead of using a single imager with fixed parameters, the system uses multiple imagers with different collection angles (first collection angle and second collection angle), effectively adding an angular dimension to the measurement capability and enabling coverage of a broader particle size range.
2Measurement precision
If a single imager is used, then the device complexity is low, but the measurement precision for the full range of particle sizes (5 μm to 2700 μm) cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the detection function across multiple imagers, with first imagers dedicated to detecting smaller water droplets and ice crystals (5-50 μm) and second imagers dedicated to larger particles (50-2700 μm). This segmentation enables accurate water content determination across the full regulatory range while assigning specific detection responsibilities to each imager type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal detection system where multiple imagers with different collection angles work together to detect all particle sizes within the regulatory range. The processing unit integrates data from all imagers to provide comprehensive water content determination, making the system universally applicable for detecting both small and large particles according to FAR regulations.
3Reliability
If conventional imagers are used, then the device is simpler, but the reliability for detecting all particle sizes including supercooled large droplets and ice crystals is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the detection function to ensure reliable detection of all particle types mentioned in regulations (supercooled large droplets, ice crystals, and mixed phase particles). First imagers with specific collection angles detect smaller particles while second imagers detect larger particles, ensuring that no particle type is missed and enhancing overall detection reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The processing unit receives and processes images from multiple imagers with different collection angles, integrating the data to determine total water content. This feedback mechanism ensures that the system reliably detects all particle sizes and types, providing accurate icing condition assessment according to FAR regulations.
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 solution enables reliable and robust detection of water content and icing conditions over the entire range of sizes specified by aeronautical regulations, ensuring in-flight safety with a service life exceeding 30 years and operation in extreme temperatures.
Implementation Method 1
a laser emitter (2) able to emit a laser beam (14) intended to illuminate particles (11, 12) present in the atmosphere
Implementation Method 2
Two light points, referred to as glare points, are visible on the surface of the droplets. These glare points create an interference pattern having the form of parallel fringes
Data Source
AI summary
A device for determining the water content in the atmosphere comprising: a laser transmitter suitable for transmitting a laser beam for illuminating particles of water and/or ice present in the atmosphere, a first out-of-focus imager having a first collection angle suitable for capturing at least one first representative image of the particles, and processing unit in communication connection with the first image. The device further comprises a second out-of-focus imager having a second collection angle suitable for capturing at least one second image. The processing unit is in communication connection with the second imager, the processing unit being suitable for processing the first and second images in order to determine the water content in the atmosphere.