Glossary of Terms
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
V
Vacuum forming: A process that takes a flat piece of material and gives it dimension by heating then forcing it into a mold by a vacuum. (See also thermoforming.)
Variable message sign: A sign where the copy the face can be changed at will either manually using attachable letters, mechanically using a rotating panel or electronically via computer-controlled bulbs, LEDs or LCD screen. (See also marquee sign, message centre, readerboard. changeable copy sign or menu board.)
Variance: A method by which a municipal government formally deviates from the terms of its sign or zoning code. Typically, obtaining a variance for a sign requires the applicant to show that it would not be contrary to the public interest or that the property has unique conditions that render the existing sign code impractical to enforce.
Vector: In sign making, vector graphics refers to artwork that is based on mathematically defined line and /or curve segments between coordinate points. Vector graphics are fully scalable. (See also raster.)
Vectorization: The function of tracing around a bitmap image to convert it to an outline of line and curve segments otherwise known as vectors.
Vehicle graphics: Applying corporate branding and graphics to vehicles provides a very cost-effective way to promote business and products as vehicle branding can reach thousands of people each day. Vehicle graphics can take a number of forms such as magnetic signs, vinyl lettering and full vehicle wraps. (See also magnetic signs and wraps.)
Video wall: An array of CRT, LCD or plasma displays that are linked together to form a single image or multiple images.
Vinyl: Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) film that, in sign making, is backed with an adhesive that creates a strong bond to a substrate when pressure is applied. Many different integral colours and finishes are available for various applications from permanent to semi-permanent to temporary use.
Vinyl letters: Letters that are cut from adhesive-backed vinyl film which is available in opaque, translucent, reflective, metallic, and other specialized finishes.
Visibility: The quality of a letter, number, graphic, or symbol, which enables the observer to distinguish it from its surrounding or background.
Visibility triangle: Means the area within a triangle formed by measuring a specified distance along two intersecting lines and a third line joining the terminal points of the two measured lines. This is frequently used in municipal sign codes to define areas where specific rules apply, e.g. at the intersection of two streets. |
