The sensor uses ultrasonic to measure the distance between itself and either the vehicle or the floor. The results of these measurements are sent to the zone controller over a serial interface. The zone controller compares the measurement with the stored ceiling height of the free space. After taking other factors into consideration, the zone controllers are able to drive the red/green display in the sensor.
Up to 32 sensors can be connected parallel to another on the same supply and each sensor can be addressed separately. The address is adjusted by a switch in the sensor. If communications to the zone controller are disrupted the sensor can continue to function independently. The sensor measures and displays the current state of the parking space. This means there is an emergency back-up if the zone controller breaks down.
An external lamp can be fixed to the sensor to help read the display. It is automatically recognized by the sensor and controlled instead of the internal LED’s.
USS350D/USS350D HC Product sheet (PDF)