Patent ID: 8641250

Claim:
A user interface assembly for operating a system within a vehicle, the interface assembly comprising: a base; a user interface supported at the base and configured to be selectively actuated for operating the system, the user interface including a first portion, a second portion, and a marking; and a light source configured to provide light into the first portion of the user interface, wherein the user interface is configured to function as a conduit for the light directed into the first portion so that the light can be emitted from the second portion of the user interface; wherein the marking is provided on a back surface of the second portion and the marking is viewable from a front surface of the second portion of the user interface at least when the light source is illuminated; and wherein the second portion includes at least one lateral edge surface relative to the front and rear surfaces, and the at least one edge surface provides edge lighting on the user interface when the light source is illuminated.