A comparison of the coplanar waveguide (CPW) and conductor-backed coplanar waveguide (CBCPW) for use as aircraft ice sensors

A numerical comparison of the coplanar waveguide (CPW) and the conductor-backed coplanar waveguide (CBCPW) as ice sensors is presented. Analysis is performed using design equations obtained by quasistatic assumptions and conformal mapping techniques. It is shown that dielectric materials placed on top of the sensors affect the characteristics of the propagating signal. Each sensor's ability to identify and quantify the amount of ice on its surface is examined. Results show that the CBCPW is more sensitive, particularly at small thicknesses of the test material. This work enhances the development of in-flight icing detection systems.