Towards Smarter Aircradt Ice Protection Systems with PLEIADES

Conventional electric-based Ice Protection Systems (IPS) typically operate using predefined heating sequences and fixed power allocation, limiting their adaptability under dynamic flight conditions.

Within PLEIADES project, Collins Aerospaceis investigating a next-generation approach based on the integration of PIC and FBG photonic sensors into IPS architectures.

This enables:

• Real-time thermal monitoring
• Feedback-driven power control
• Improved energy efficiency

Transition towards adaptive system operation supports:

• Reduced energy consumption
• Enhanced operational efficiency
• Contribution to more sustainable aviation

Beyond ice protection, the same technology enables Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) and damage detection.