Backlighting method for an automotive trim panel
AssigneeTextron Automotive Company Inc.
InventorDavid M. Misaras
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
The present invention relates to an apparatus and method of perforating the cover layer or soft skin of an automotive trim panel such as an instrument panel with a laser to allow light to bleed through the perforations. The light source would preferably be a low heat generating or “cool” type source such as an LED. The light source would be attached to a suitable substrate or incorporated in to a flexible printed circuit and coupled to the vehicle electrical system. This method would enable full switch integration to a trim panel and provide a seamless styling opportunity regarding the electrical controls. This method would help reduce cost and weight, improve quality, and promote new seamless styling theme.
Claims24
An automotive trim panel, comprising:
- a pliable cover layer having a front surface and a rear surface, the cover layer comprising a plurality of openings formed with a laser, said openings extending from the front surface to the rear surface, said openings of a size between 0.010″-0.060″;
- a light source to direct light through the openings from the rear surface to the front surface;
- an actuator beneath the rear surface of said cover layer, said actuator moveable between a first position and a second position;
- and
- a switch to energize the light source wherein the actuator is spaced from the rear surface of the cover layer, the actuator causing the switch to change state when a force is applied to the cover layer.
A method of back lighting an automotive trim panel, comprising:
- forming a plurality of openings with a laser in a pliable cover layer of the trim panel, said openings of a size between 0.010″-0.060″;
- positioning a light source relative to the openings to allow light to exit through the openings and enter the vehicle compartment;
- providing an actuator beneath the rear surface of the cover layer, said actuator moveable between a first position and a second position;
- and
- providing a switch to energize the light source, wherein the actuator is spaced from the rear surface of the cover layer, the actuator causing the switch to change state when a force is applied to the cover layer.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.