Abstract: This race timing apparatus of the video finish type includes a photo sensitive CCD bar (5) which may be read at a predetermined frequency in correspondence with the run past speed (Vi) of the image of the race. The images are stored and visualized by means of a commercial recorder (22) and monitor (23) of a fixed standardized sweep frequency. Since the image acquisition frequency by the bar is not synchronous with the visualization frequency, one proceeds with the generation of image parts using buffer memories (19, 20), the image parts being next stored in an image memory (21) and then read in a discontinuous manner by jumping over image parts in synchronism with a standard TV sweep. The apparatus enables the offering of a system at a low overall cost price since it employs a recorder and a monitor currently obtainable on the market.

Abstract: This light emitting element (24) constitutes a pixel a plurality of which when arranged in rows and columns may form a matrix display board.The element comprises one or more discharge tubes (10, 11, 12). For a board displaying images (textual or video) in color the internal wall of each tube is coated with a fluorescent substance which responds respectively to the red, green and blue portions of the spectrum. By independently varying the intensity of the light emitted by each tube light is obtained at the element output the resultant wavelength of which may extend over the entire visible spectrum.The invention finds use in a display board employed to convey information to crowds of people as for example in a sports stadium.