公开(公告)号：US5614338A

公开(公告)日：1997-03-25

申请号：US422398

申请日：1995-04-14

Applicant: Robert A. Pyburn ,  Michael E. Fye

Inventor： Robert A. Pyburn ,  Michael E. Fye

IPC: G01D11/28 ,  G03C5/00

CPC classification number: G01D11/28 ,  Y10S430/146

Abstract: A method is provided for producing a graphic for a backlit component, such as a button for an illuminated graphic display of an automobile instrument panel. The method involves a process by which molded plastic backlit buttons are manufactured without the use of hazardous chemicals or materials, and instead utilizes laser energy to produce substantially opaque regions on the button for forming a graphics image. Backlit buttons are preferably formed from a substantially transparent polymeric material in which is present pigmentation that is reactive to laser energy. A graphic image is then created on the button by selectively exposing a portion of the backlit component to laser energy. As a result, the exposed portion becomes substantially opaque while remaining portions of the backlit component remain substantially transparent. As such, the exposed and unexposed portions of the button cooperate to produce the graphic image when the button is backlit with a suitable light source.

Abstract translation: 提供了一种用于产生用于背光组件的图形的方法，例如用于汽车仪表板的照明图形显示的按钮。 该方法包括在不使用危险化学品或材料的情况下制造模制塑料背光按钮的过程，而是使用激光能量在按钮上产生基本上不透明的区域以形成图形图像。 背光按钮优选由基本上透明的聚合物材料形成，其中存在着与激光能量无关的色素沉着。 然后通过将背光组件的一部分选择性地暴露于激光能量来在按钮上创建图形图像。 结果，暴露部分变得基本上是不透明的，而背光部件的剩余部分保持基本上透明。 因此，当按钮用合适的光源进行背光照亮时，按钮的曝光和未曝光部分合作产生图形图像。