Analog indicator with self-luminescent pointer
US5636589A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 16, 1994 |
| Grant date | Jun 10, 1997 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 16, 2014 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01D13/28
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A self-luminescent indicator which may be employed in a tachometer, a speedometer, or other such gauges in automotive vehicles. The self-luminescent indicator comprises an indicating pointer, a luminescent element, and a semitransparent member. The indicating pointer includes a housing and a cover. The housing has formed therein a groove. The luminescent element is disposed in the groove of the housing. The semitransparent member is arranged within the cover of the indicating pointer for diffusing light emitted from the luminescent element out of the indicating pointer. The semitransparent member has side walls extending substantially parallel to each other in a vertical direction parallel to a given optical path of the luminescent element. With this arrangement, the indicating pointer projects light having uniform and high brightness to an observer without having the light experience total reflection in the semitransparent member so as to improve the visibility of pointer deflection over a dial plate.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.