The Model 552 was developed to display numerical
information in all directions over a large area. All numbers are displayed by a simple code
which is easy to learn and remember. The system consists of a vertical column of five (5)
equally spaced lights. The light sequences are controlled by a microprocessor base control unit.
The BDS Systems Optical Signaling System consists of the Optical Signaling Unit and the Optical Control Unit. The Optical Signaling Unit has five equally spaced strobe type lights mounted in a vertical column. The Optical Control Unit, with its microprocessor and associated electronics, controls the sequence and manner in which the Optical Signaling Unit’s lights flash to display time and temperature. The system operates as follows:
- All five (5) lights flash at the same time to indicate the beginning of a display. All light flash three (3) times before the display of time. All lights flash two (2) times before the display of temperature.
- The numbers 1, 2, 3, 4, & 5 are displayed when the lights in the column flash in sequence from top to bottom. Each sequence is called a scan. The number "1" is one scan down. The number "2" is two scans down. The numbers 3, 4, 5 are as many scans down form top to bottom as the number being displayed.
- The numbers 6, 7, 8, 9 are displayed when the lights in the column flash in sequence from bottom to top. The number "6" is one scan up. The number "7" is two scans up. The numbers 8. 9 are as many scans up from the bottom to top as the number being displayed.
- The number "0" (zero) is displayed when the top and bottom lights flash at the same time - once.
- There is a build in time delay between scans and between numbers, so individual numbers can be read. Time and temperature are displayed approximately two (2) times in one (1) minute.