Torvec, Inc., as a leader in innovative automotive technologies, is always on the lookout for breakthrough technologies which may enhance the Torvec portfolio. Torvec has licensed the rights to ISDI's ICE Technology based on its scientific success and commercial promise. The license covers global rights for motorized, land based vehicles.

The technology, developed at Dartmouth College after over 20 years of research, alters the adhesion of ice to various surfaces. It can potentially either decrease adhesion to surfaces like glass and plastic enabling rapid removal, or increase adhesion to surfaces like tire treads and ski undersurfaces enabling better traction.

See videos of the technology in action

Three variations of the technology are being developed:

• Direct current (DC) method — through electrolysis creates a pressured gas that breaks up and ejects ice, which is ideal for initial ice removal
• Alternating current (AC, or high frequency) method — melts interfacial ice with minimal heat exchange to the surrounding environment thereby reducing power requirements; this method is potentially capable of continuously maintaining ice free surfaces
• Pulse method — creates a short-term water barrier that enables ice to be easily removed; this potentially works well for initial removal and is relatively simple to produce

The technology is largely covered by US Patent 6,027,075, issued 2/22/00. In addition to this patent ISDI has PCT filings in Canada, China, EP, Korea, Japan and Russia as well as a number of provisional filings. Intellectual property is continually being updated. Torvec is filing for manufacturing process patents.

Preliminary prototyping and lab work indicates the following performance is possible:

• De-icing a windshield or equivalent in a matter of a few seconds (could also be plastic, metal or coated surface)
• Maintaining ice free windshield with little power
• Maintaining visual integrity, light transmission, durability
• Reasonable requirements for power supply
• Costs are reasonable for market value
• Can be produced with available technologies

A few seconds for initial ice removal

No buildup while driving

Greatly improved tire grip on icy surfaces

Potential Applications

Windshields and other automotive glass

Lighting

Mirrors

Sensors

Trailer roofs

Sun roofs

Antennas

Wiper mechanisms

Cameras