Robert A. Kropfli - Golden CO Roger F. Reinking - Longmont CO Bruce W. Bartram - Boulder CO Sergey Y. Matrosov - Boulder CO Brooks E. Martner - Lafayette CO
Assignee:
The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of Commerce - Washington DC University Technology Corporation - Boulder CO
International Classification:
G01S 1395
US Classification:
342 26, 342 27, 342175, 342188, 342195
Abstract:
An icing hazard avoidance system and method utilizes a forward-looking, single frequency, dual-polarization pulse radar system as well as temperature sensing means to determine if supercooled liquid water (SLW) drops are present in an aircrafts flight path. A processor determines the ratio of co-polarized and cross-polarized returns. This ratio and the temperature of the atmosphere indicate if SLW drops exists. If an icing hazard is determined, an indicator in the cockpit of the aircraft alerts pilots so that avoidance measures may be taken.