Illuminated pointer

• US 20070035960A1
• Filed: 10/20/2006
• Published: 02/15/2007
• Est. Priority Date: 07/21/2005
• Status: Abandoned Application

• Current Assignee: Siemens VDO Automotive Corporation (Siemens AG)
• Original Assignee: Siemens VDO Automotive Corporation (Siemens AG)
• Inventors: Takato, Kenichi, Birman, Vyacheslav, Struck, Ronald, Dyer, Kevin
• Application Number:
  US11/584,088
• Publication Number:
  US 20070035960A1
• Time in Patent Office: Days
• US Class Current: 362/489
• CPC Class Codes: B60K 2360/6992 Light conducting pointers
• CPC Class Codes: G01D 11/28 Structurally-combined illuminating devices
• CPC Class Codes: G01D 13/265 Pointers which conduct light

Abstract

A gauge assembly includes a pointer that provides one appearance in a non-illuminated condition and different appearance an illuminated pointer for low light conditions. The pointer is selectively illuminated to provide enhanced viewing in low light conditions. The pointer assembly includes a film that provides for desired appearances in daylight conditions and also defines a desired multi-colored pattern.

Claims

3-1. The display device as recited in claim 1, wherein the film comprise a semi-transparent material such that selective illumination of the pointer is visible.

14. A pointer assembly for an instrument dial comprising:

a base portion;

a pointer portion extending from the base portion, the pointer portion including a top surface; and

a film supported on the top surface for providing a desired appearance.

15. The assembly as recited in claim 14, wherein the pointer includes a reflective surface concentric about an axis of rotation for directing light through the pointer portion.

16. The assembly as recited in claim 15, wherein the reflective surface directs light radially outward from the axis of rotation.

17. The assembly as recited in claim 14, wherein the film is semi-transparent such that illumination from the pointer portion is at least partially visible.

18. The assembly as recited in claim 14, wherein the film includes a coating defining a visible pattern.

19. The assembly as recited in claim 18, wherein the coating comprises an ink printed onto the film.

20. The assembly as recited in claim 19, wherein the coating comprises at least two different colors that define a desired pattern.