Patent ID: 6824288
Filing Date: 2004-11-30
Classification: H01H,H04M,Y10S

Abstract:
Apparatus for backlit illumination of key designation characters in a keypad, comprising:a plurality of translucent key cores having outer, operating ends and inner, actuating extentions, the inner extensions being held in a specific planar pattern in a first position and operable to move to a second, displaced position in the planar pattern; an elastomeric, electroluminescent lamp held against the inner, actuating extensions so as to stretch across a local area when an operating end is placed in the second position; a switch panel having individual domed switches arranged in a matching planar pattern wherein the elastomeric, electroluminescent lamp is held directly between the inner extensions and the domes and the corresponding domed switch is actuated by the inner extension through contact with the elastomeric, electroluminescent lamp when an operating end is placed in the second position; a covering on the outer ends, marked to define key designation characters; and a power supply for activating the electroluminescent lamp upon demand, so as to illuminate the key designation characters.