Aeronautics and astronautics – Aircraft structure – Ice prevention
Patent
1993-11-12
1996-01-16
Barefoot, Galen L.
Aeronautics and astronautics
Aircraft structure
Ice prevention
340583, B64D 1520
Patent
active
054841216
ABSTRACT:
A safety system for detecting ice on the external surfaces of aircraft that are awaiting take-off from airports is disclosed. Multiple optical sensors mounted flush with the craft skin emit coded radiation signals away from the craft's skin. If a layer of ice is present on a sensor, light is reflected back to a corresponding detector, generating an electrical signal. Reflection from water or antifreeze or from environmental or endogenous noise yield distorted signals that are rejected by the code-reading circuitry. Relevant signals are sent to the cockpit, where the location of the ice on the aircraft is displayed for the crew, as well as to the airport tower via standard communication link, and to the flight data recorder. The invention assures that ice is detected at all critical times while the craft proceeds from the terminal to when it is airborne. Visual and audible alarms inform the pilot if unacceptable conditions prevail.
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Goldberg Robert M.
Padawer Jacques
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