System for displaying prices with improved localization of labels and selective display changing

摘要

A system for display of information regarding items which are arranged in an area comprises a central computer and a bus connected to the central computer.

A multiplicity of display devices are connected to the central computer. Each display device has a unique address on the bus and is physically connectable to the bus in a multiplicity of locations, each display device is capable of displaying data in response to a message from the central computer.

Means within the central computer maintains records of the physical connection locations of the display devices, the records defining subareas within the area.

Request detection means responsive to receipt of a display change request, identifies the particular subarea corresponding to the request and transmits on the bus at least one message relating to the display devices connected at locations in the particular subarea, whereby substantially all display devices in the particular subarea change from displaying any previously displayed data to displaying changed data in response to the request, and whereby substantially all display devices not in the particular subarea continue displaying previously displayed data.