The LED fixtures used are DingDotz - individually addressable, low profile, self contained, colour changing RGB LEDs that are IP66 waterproof containing super-bright Nichia 3-in-1 sealed LED units. With a viewing angle of 120 degrees, the 15mm fixtures radiate light with high quality colour rendition of 16.7 million hues, which is suitable for directly viewed outdoor architectural signage applications. A standard rackmount Windows PC acts as the master controller, running Vivid Effect's DesignerSuite and FireFly software. The software manages the pixel mapping and contains a media player that plays the videos on the array. X-Node rackmount integrated drivers distribute power and data to the network. Braincell slave controllers run each set of 100 Dotz. The system network architecture allows video and animation to be run at 30 frames per second.
The DingDotz are fitted from behind into a custom horizontal aluminium U-profile section with holes cut out to locate the Dotz. The U-section is then fitted over the main frame and secured with grub screws. Each section of U-profile is 2.5m long and can be removed in minutes for any maintenance requirements. The main supporting frame is made from aluminium and bolted to the exterior of the building.
A light sensor turns the system on and off. As soon as light levels fall below a certain point, the sensor activates auto start up of the system and conversely auto shut down or timed shutdown. The bank staff can concentrate on the daily business of banking without worrying about their new LED technology.
The custom nature of the design allows the building's occupants to see out and daylight to enter, and at nighttime the whole first floor becomes a digital LED screen running the bank's branding and promotions, or in fact any effect or animation.
(Chris Henry)
