Redundancy concept
A33Zab
Not only A and B are using Pitots as measuring equipment, C thru Z are using the same, in general simple but effective system, operating flawlessly 99% of the time.
Agreed, but occasionally liable to common-mode failures.
Besides working (or not), a pitot could provide an indication of its operating temperature. [Earlier posts have stated that the heating element has thermistor-like properties.]
It would seem sensible for the temperature to be monitored, and a severe-weather warning issued when it goes outside normal limits. Indicating the increased likelihood of common-mode pitot failures.
Note that does not require a new pitot design, simply monitoring the voltage and current. Obviously trials would be needed to see how far the temperature of a pitot experiencing high-altitude icing differs from that during extremes of normal operation.