Patent ID: 7750824
Filing Date: 2010-07-06
Classification: G08B

Abstract:
1. An optical element for use in detecting ice and water on a surface of an aircraft, said element comprising: an elongated transparent body defining an optical channel and a light source for generating a beam of light disposed at one end of said elongated transparent body, a light detector and means for generating variable signals dependent on an amount of light received by said detector disposed in said one end of said elongated transparent body, and a reflective surface at an opposite end of said elongated transparent body and said reflective surface comprising a plurality of convex elements extending outwardly from said elongated transparent body and wherein each of said convex elements define a critical angle whereby light from said light source is reflected toward said light detector when said convex elements are in contact with air and refracted toward an external environment when said convex elements are in contact with ice or water.