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printed with numbers and letters and located behind the display panel. Each of the scrolls could be wined to reveal the number or letter desired to spell out the message. At first, these signs were changed mechanically, but today they are often controlled electronically. A prime example of this type of sign is the typical price board located inside and outside of nearly atl fast food restaurants. This type of sign was the first flawless electronic copy changer. Other early systems included the use of banks of incandescent tight bulbs connected with permanent wiring to form a few predetermined messages, with electrical controllers switching between those messages. This ]amp technology initially evolved into standardized sign cabinets that presented time and temperature displays. The units accomplished copy changes through electromechanical means, using motor-driven banks of cam-operated contacts. Time and temperature units, developed in the 1950s and'60s, were a major technical innovation in electronic signs, however, due to radio interference and vibration problems, a full range ofcopy changes was still impossible. By the mid-1970s, energy consumption had become a concern, and manufacwrers began to focus theirresearch -r- .~ - ~® on the development of energy efficient products. Incandescent bulb units were equipped with elecfric eyes (lightsensors)thatregulateddimmingatnight. Another new product was developed, the electronic flip disc or panel display, which used an electronically controlled matrix of reflective dots or panels, actuated by electromagnetic means, to form letters and numbers. These reflective surfaces were illuminated by hidden fluorescent lamps, and were very energy efficient. Their limited readability and conspicuity, however, propelled researchers onward in their efforts to develop functional low energy products. Meanwhile, taking advantage ofadvances in electronics technology, several companies developed and began selling electronic variable message signs, known as electronic message centers (EMCs). Eventually these efforts came to fruition, and solid state electronics technology enabled the creation of a sign that was durable, reliable, effective, and versatile, allowing copy changes beyond time and temperature display. Electric change panels had become electronic change panels; mechanical controls had become computer controls; and light sources grew increasingly sophisticated. Manufacturers have continued to focus on improving the light source of their displays, with the goal of signline50.DmC 2 3R3I2003, 12:05 PM ~ 9- Like electronic message centers, mechanical variable message signs provide for easy flexibility in communication. Their messages can be timely and relevant, conveying announcements of sales or community events, or expressing opinions, words of wisdom, orhumorous sayings. The provide the business ownerwith a valuable communication tool to reach the people most likely to patronize the business -those passing the site in a vehicle.