Fiber Optic Blank Out Sign
Features
Ideal for all standard traffic control applications.
Single or double face models.
Cost-efficient, layered message panel.
Up to seven messages per panel.
Utilizes all standard ITE colors.
Dual 42-watt lamps provide burnout protection (fail safe).
Exceptional message visibility and clarity.
Complete blank out when not energized.
Low power consumption.
Easy to service.
UL approved.
1.0 Message
1.1 Most standard FHWA legends available in single or multi-
message overlay.
2.0 General Description (Two-Way)
2.1 Each side of a two-way Fiber Optic Blank Out Traffic Sign shall
be capable of displaying messages(s) as in 1.1.
2.2 A two-way sign shall be serviceable from either of the two sides.
3.0 Functional Requirements
3.1 All messages shall be clearly legible, attracting attention under
any lighting conditions. At full intensity the sign will
be highly visible anywhere within an approximate 60 degree cone
centered about the optic axis.
3.2 The sign shall completely blank out when not energized. No phantom
words or legend shall be seen under any ambient light conditions.
3.3 Messages are displayed by a single or double row of glass fiber
bundles (depending upon application).
3.4 In most applications bundles shall be arranged so that in the event
of failure of one light source, the other shall continue to
provide a discernable message.
3.5 The entire sign face is protected by a 1/8" matte/clear
polycarbonate lens mounted in the door frame.
3.6 The sign face shall consist of:
a. Weatherproof housing and door.
b. Fiber optic module.
C. Color filters for desired message colors
d. Light sources.
e. Transformers.
3.7 The color of any message may be changed in the field by replacement
of the color filters without removing the sign from the case.
3.8 42-watt lamps shall be used and operated at 10.8 volts. The lamps
shall sustain an average 8,000-hour life.
3.9 Transformers shall be used to reduce the incoming 120 volts AC to
10.8 volts AC. The transformers shall contain Class A insulation
and weatherproofing and shall be rated at 48.5 volt-amps.
3.10 The sign shall be capable of continuous operation over a range in
temperature from -35 F to +165 F (-31 C to +75 C).
4.0 Mechanical Construction
4.1 Aluminum Housings
a. Two-way housings shall be constructed of a .063" aluminum body
and a .063" aluminum channel framework structure inside.
Housing body and inside framework shall be permanently attached
to form a single unit.
b. One-way housings shall be constructed of .080" or .125"
extruded aluminum 8" deep with a .063" flat aluminum
back welded into the housing.
c. All corners and seams of the one-way or two-way housings are
heli-arc welded to provide a weatherproof seal around
the entire case.
d. Continuous stainless steel hinges, .040" x 1 1/4" open,
shall connect the housing and doors.
e. Extruded aluminum doors shall have one side removable
to gain access to sign face (not required for routine
maintenance).
f. Door gaskets shall be neoprene to provide a weatherproof seal.
g. Sign face shall be flat aluminum and shall have the fiber
optics assembly mounted to it.
h. Sign shall have one or more stainless steel, 1/4-turn link-
locks per door to tightly secure the door onto the gasket.
i. Mounting hubs shall be of cast aluminum alloy with 1 1/21'
standard pipe thread. The hub is mounted on its gasket
to sign housing by three 5/16" x 1" stainless steel hex
head bolts and nuts. Other mounting methods available
upon request.
j. Drainage shall be provided by four drain holes
located at the four corners of the housing bottom.
5.0 Fiber Optic Modules
5.1 The fiber optic modules and associated components shall be
assembled directly to the sign face and shall have an inside back
cover to provide protection to the module. The fiber shall consist
of step-indexed fiber optic glass bundles arranged to define
the required message. The fiber optic bundles shall be ground
smooth and optically polished at the input and output ends for
maximum light transmission.
5.2 The glsss bundles shall be mounted through the sign face from the
inside. Number of bundles varies according to message.
5.3 Door panels and bundle termination holders shall be colored flat
black to minimize legibility when deactivated and maximize
legibility when activated. No color shall appear when
deactivated regardless of ambient light conditions.
5.4 Message color is provided by a tempered, optically correct glass
color filter in conformance with ITE specifications.
5.5 Electrical connection of field wires shall be made via barrier-type
terminal strip.
5.6 All fasteners and hardware shall be corrosion-resistant stainless
steel. All components shall be readily accessible for maintenance
when the door is open.
5.7 With standard hardware and locks, no tools are needed for lamp
replacement.
Warranty
All products will be warranted to be free of defects due to material and
workmanship for a period of two (2) years.
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