Patent ID: 6107611
Filing Date: 2000-08-22
Classification: E04D,H01Q,H02H,H05B

Abstract:
A reflector assembly in a satellite system, comprising:a reflector having a reflecting surface;at least one sensor, each said sensor being configured for sensing one of temperature of said reflecting surface and moisture associated with said reflecting surface, each said sensor being configured for providing a signal indicative of said sensing;a heater configured for heating said reflecting surface, said heater including a heater wire, a layer of insulation substantially surrounding said heater wire, and a conductive shield substantially surrounding said layer of insulation;a ground fault circuit interrupter coupled with said shield of said heater, said ground fault circuit interrupter being configured for detecting a ground fault condition between said heater wire and said conductive shield and providing a signal indicative thereof; andan automatic controller connected to said at least one sensor, said controller including heater control circuitry receiving each of said sensor signal and said ground fault circuit interrupter signal and selectively controlling operation of said heater dependent upon said sensor signal and said ground fault circuit interrupter signal.