| 摘要 |
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 prevailing environmental conditions to determine whether or not ice may form on a structure are described. Two heaters of an ice protection system (experiencing substantially the same environmental conditions) are driven to different temperatures (the first greater than or equal to 0ºC, and the second less than 0ºC). A difference in the powers required to drive the two heaters indicates the prevailing environmental conditions. A method, apparatus and controller to detect the formation of ice on a structure are also 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. |
