Paula M Willis

US Patent:

52258181, Jul 6, 1993

Filed:

Nov 26, 1990

Appl. No.:

7/617991

Inventors:

David A. Rivera - Firestone CO
Kevin M. Myles - Ft. Collins CO
H. Michael Berman - Nederland CO
Paula C. Willis - Boulder CO

Assignee:

Data Entry Products, Incorporated - Loveland CO

International Classification:

G09G 302

US Classification:

340711

Abstract:

The thin section data display control panel of the present invention includes a graphic overlay, a diffuser block affixed to the graphic overlay and light emitting diodes surface mounted on a printed circuit board for providing localized sources of light to be transmitted through the diffuser block to the overlay. The graphic overlay is generally opaque, but has translucent areas through which the illumination shines. An overlay reflective portion on a diffuser side of the overlay reflects light back into the diffuser, except in areas adjacent to the translucent areas of the overlay. The diffuser block is affixed to the graphic overlay and is generally transparent for transmitting the light from the light emitting diodes. Block reflective surfaces on the perimeter edges of the diffuser block prevent light from exiting through the edges. Matte surfaces of the diffuser block adjacent the graphic overlay and adjacent the printed circuit board scatter the light transmitted from the light emitting diodes.