Keypad assembly for a communication device
US8542194B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 30, 2010 |
| Grant date | Sep 24, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 22, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04M1/23
- WIPO fieldTelecommunications
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A keypad assembly (100) provides improved backlighting in a slim-line from factor with a minimal number of LEDs (130). The keypad assembly (100) utilizes side-firing LEDs (130) mounted to a keypad flex (112) which protrude through subsequent thin layers of substrates. A light-guide film (104) disposed over the layers includes corresponding cut-outs through which the side-firing LEDS partially protrude. The light-guide film includes light dispersion areas (114) formed thereon. A cover (102) seals the side-firing LEDs (130) protruding through the light-guide film (104). An interconnect flex (132) couples to the keypad flex (112) to provide flexible coupling of the keypad assembly to an electronic device. The light-guide film (104) provides both light dispersion and sealing to the keypad assembly (100).
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.