This proposal regarded designing, building and testing a functional prototype of part of a laminar wing fitted with electro-thermal ice protection (ETIPS) for a business jet. The aim was to show innovation in the use of composite materials for the fixed leading edge, (e.g. Fibre/Metal Laminates), which are thermally efficient, can be manufactured to tight laminar wing tolerances and comparable to aluminium for weight & cost. Furthermore, the structure was evaluated for its basic damage resistance properties and ease of repair.

The ETIPS aspects were innovative through a focus on minimising power consumption, using sensors to allow power demand management and thereby achieve a Smart ETIPS. Different types of heater elements were tested in a range of configurations to optimise ice protection coverage and power consumption. Trials were also be conducted to minimise the weight of the ETIPS heater elements, controllers and wiring.

Several structural and layout trade-off studies were conducted and the final solution tested in an icing wind tunnel.