Communications: electrical – Condition responsive indicating system – Specific condition
Patent
1996-10-04
1998-05-05
Mullen, Thomas
Communications: electrical
Condition responsive indicating system
Specific condition
340962, 340580, 356381, 356382, 7317026, 244134F, G08B 1902
Patent
active
057480915
ABSTRACT:
The thickness of a semi transparent layer, such as ice, is determined by supporting the layer atop or above a light transmissive window and directing multiple light beams through the light transmissive window and into the layer. The light transmissive window has a higher index of refraction than the layer or any intermediate layer directly above the semi-transparent layer. Light beams are directed at an angle to the surface that results in total internal reflection from the outer surface of the supported semi-transparent layer. The light reflected to the rear of the window at the same but opposite angle is monitored and correlates to the thickness of the monitored layer. The spatial distribution of reflected light along the longitudinal axis of the window changes in dependence upon the thickness of the supported layer. Quantitative indications of that thickness are displayed and should that thickness exceed a prescribed level an alarm may be generated. The monitoring system has application as a non-intrusive ice detection system for aircraft airfoil surfaces.
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Huang Sihong
McDonnell Douglas Corporation
Mullen Thomas
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