FAA Aviation Mechanic Airframe (AMA)Fuel, Cabin and Ice Control SystemsHard
A technician is inspecting an electrically heated windshield anti-ice system on a transport-category aircraft. The system uses a conductive film embedded in the windshield laminate along with a temperature sensor and controller. What is the primary purpose of the temperature sensor and controller in this system?
- ATo detect ice accumulation directly on the windshield surface
- BTo regulate heating element power and prevent overheating or damage to the windshield laminate
- CTo synchronize windshield heat cycling with the wing anti-ice system
- DTo measure outside air temperature and activate the system only below freezing
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. To regulate heating element power and prevent overheating or damage to the windshield laminate
The temperature sensor and controller regulate the power supplied to the heating elements, maintaining windshield temperature within a safe range to prevent overheating, delamination, or cracking of the windshield structure while still providing anti-icing and defogging.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Ice detection is a separate function (visual or ice detector sensors), not the windshield temperature controller's job.
- C. Windshield heat and wing anti-ice systems operate independently with separate controls.
- D. Activation logic for windshield heat is typically based on windshield temperature, not just outside air temperature.
Electrically Heated Windshield System
A windshield anti-ice/anti-fog system using embedded conductive heating film with a temperature sensor and controller to regulate power and prevent overheating.
- Conductive film embedded in laminated windshield
- Controller regulates power based on windshield temperature
- Prevents overheating, cracking, or delamination
Memory trick: Controller = the windshield's thermostat, not its ice-spotter