UBIQ Propeller Ice Protection System

FLIR Imaging of thermo-electric heating panels incorporated in propeller.

UBIQ Aerospace specializes in advanced electro-thermal Ice Protection Solutions (IPS) designed for a wide range of UAV types. Our innovative, electrically heated propeller solution enables UAVs to maintain safe and reliable operations even in challenging icing conditions.

Impact of icing on UAV Propellers

Ice accretion on propeller in icing wind tunnel.

When UAVs fly through clouds in low temperatures, ice can form on the propellers, severely disrupting airflow and reducing thrust. As ice accumulates on the blades, the risk of asymmetric shedding increases, which lead to strong vibrations and potentially cause damage to the UAV or external payloads if struck by dislodged ice. Propeller ice protection is crucial for maintaining the safety and performance of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in such adverse weather conditions. By integrating the D•ICE Propeller IPS, the operational capabilities of UAVs can be significantly enhanced, allowing them to perform reliably in a wider range of applications. While icing conditions are particularly common in higher latitudes, they can pose a threat to UAV operations worldwide, making robust ice protection a global necessity.

Comparison of relative thrust efficiency on propellers with and without IPS enabled. In addition to inconsistent thrust discrepancies, ice shedding leads to debilitating vibrations that further worsen the performance of the unprotected propeller.

SWaP-optimized IPS

The D•ICE Ice Protection Solution is meticulously engineered to meet the stringent Size, Weight, and Power (SWaP) requirements of UAV aircraft. This SWaP-optimized solution provides robust protection while autonomously correcting the temperature to ensure safe operations with minimal power consumption. Utilizing lightweight carbon fiber heating panels, the IPS integrates within existing propeller designs and can be customized to fit various UAV types, maintaining efficiency without compromising performance.

Prototype production

The prototypes undergo rigorous testing in an icing wind tunnel to ensure their reliability and performance under extreme conditions. UBIQ's agile team excels at experimenting with various production methods and materials, enabling rapid iteration and refinement of designs. This approach allows UBIQ to tailor Ice Protection Solutions to meet the specific needs of different UAV providers, ensuring optimal performance across a range of applications.

Reach out to learn more about our groundbreaking D•ICE IPS at contact@ubiqaerospace.com