Photos: New smart sensors can help cars, planes avoid deadly ice-related crashes

Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed a novel ice-detection system combining paired microwave and laser sensors to provide early warnings of dangerous ice formation on vehicles and aircraft. Ice on roads causes about 20% of weather-related car crashes annually, while in aviation, ice buildup contributes to roughly 10% of fatal air carrier crashes by disrupting airflow and flight controls. The system aims to detect ice as it forms and even before vehicles enter hazardous conditions, enhancing safety for planes, drones, cars, and trucks amid increasing travel demands and pressure to operate in all weather conditions. The technology uses two complementary sensors: a microwave sensor embedded flush with the aircraft surface that detects ice buildup by changes in microwave frequency, and a laser system employing three infrared lasers to analyze clouds and rain ahead. The lasers differentiate between ice particles and supercooled water droplets, with the latter posing a greater icing risk. Additionally, the system measures droplet size and concentration to assess severity, helping pilots or automated systems decide whether to alter course