Abstract: A support element is disclosed for conveying encoded information, such as arabic numerals, formed of detectable material in presentable form for automatic decoding. The support surface is characterized by one or more information displays each of which is patterned from a pair of adjacent quadrilaterals preferably joined along a common segment to form a grid, each display being characterized by the detectable material overlying selected grid segments. A plurality of displays may be aligned on the support one behind the other such that corresponding grid segments from a pair of adjacent displays are inscribed within one of three parallel grid sampling channels delimiting all the segments of at least one grid. Automatic detection of the encoded numerals is accomplished by traversing the displays with a suitable sensor in one direction within the boundaries of each of the sampling channels. Where the displays are to be hand written the detectable material may be provided by preprinted or impressed supports.