Smart Inlet Protection System for Helicopters

Innovative Dynamics, Inc. is proposing the development of a Smart Inlet Protection System, SIP, for composite engine inlets. The system integrates IDI's proven capacitive ice detection technology with multiple heaters embedded inot the composite structure. An array of sensors can determine icing impingement limits and identify the presence of runback water. Control logic then activates only the heaters within the impingement limits and then optimizes the heat flux to just eliminate runback for the current icing conditions thus minimizing power consumption. SIP can also improve flight safety in adverse weather conditions. In the event of severe icing or damage to the heaters the control logic can monitor for runback water with the thermal system at full capacity. When these conditions exist continuted safe operation is in jeopardy and the pilot would be notified to take immediate action. The ice detection technology proposed has been proven through numerous wind tunnel and flight tests and will not require much development effort. The Phase I program will focus on optimiztion of the control system and fabrication and testing of a composite specimen. During the Phase II effort IDI will team with BFGoodrich De-Icing Systems to produce a flight ready inlet components.