Abstract: A probe head of a magnetostrictive oscillator includes a base and a plurality of hollow protrusions extending from the base. Each protrusion of the plurality of hollow protrusions includes a first end and a second end opposite the first end. The second end is connected to the base. Each protrusion also includes an inner side and an outer side opposite the inner side.

Abstract: A strut of a magnetostrictive oscillator includes a strut body which includes an airfoil with a first end, a second end, a leading edge, a trailing edge, a first side, and a second side. The strut further includes a heater element within the first side and second side, wherein the heater element connects from the first side to the second side. The strut further includes an electrically insulative layer between the heater element and the strut body. The heater element and the electrically insulative layer are integral with the strut body.

Abstract: A probe head of a magnetostrictive oscillator includes a probe head body which includes a hollow cylindrical portion with a first end, a second end, a radially inner side, and a radially outer side. The probe head body further includes a hemispherical portion connected to the first end of the hollow cylindrical portion. The probe head further includes a heater element within the radially outer side of the hollow cylindrical portion and an electrically insulative layer around the heater element. The heater element and the electrically insulative layer are integral with the probe head body.

Abstract: A method of improving the measurement accuracy of a digital ice rate sensor by providing an enhanced surface finish on a magnetostrictive oscillator detector probe by measuring the surface roughness of the detector probe, comparing the measured value to a critical value, and authorizing the probe for use in the digital ice rate sensor if surface roughness is within the critical value. Surface roughness may be measured optically or with a surface profilometer. Remedial steps taken if surface roughness is not within the critical value include reworking the probe surface finish and investigating the manufacturing process.

Abstract: A method of improving the measurement accuracy of a digital ice rate sensor by providing an enhanced surface finish on a magnetostrictive oscillator detector probe by measuring the surface roughness of the detector probe, comparing the measured value to a critical value, and authorizing the probe for use in the digital ice rate sensor if surface roughness is within the critical value. Surface roughness may be measured optically or with a surface profilometer. Remedial steps taken if surface roughness is not within the critical value include reworking the probe surface finish and investigating the manufacturing process.