Abstract: The present invention concerns a novel method for balancing an illuminated display panel to achieve a predetermined level of illumination uniformity from indicia formed on the panel. One embodiment of the present invention includes the steps of first fabricating an unbalanced display panel having light translucent and absorptive layers deposited on a panel substrate with indicia formed in the light absorptive layers. The unbalanced panel is illuminated and the amount of light from the indicia formed in the panel are measured to identify illumination deficient indicia. A carbon dioxide laser beam is then focused onto the illumination deficient indicia so as to etch portions of the light translucent layer underlying these indicia and increase the amount of illumination from these indicia. In an alternative embodiment, an illuminated display panel is partially fabricated by applying a light translucent layer to a display panel substrate.

Abstract: This invention concerns a novel structure for an illuminated display and unique method for forming illuminated displays. This structure of the display includes a substrate on which are deposited one or more light transmissive layers and an over coating of a light absorptive material. A clear separation layer is also disposed between the light transmissive layers and the light absorptive layers. The novel fabrication process of the present invention includes the use of a NdYAG laser to etch indicia in the light absorptive layer. The NdYAG laser may be operated in either a continuous or pulsed mode at power levels below approximately eight watts and at a rate of travel of about six inches per second. In one preferred embodiment indicia etching is performed operating the NdYAG laser in a pulsed mode and the pattern of indicia is retraced operating the laser in a lower power continuous mode to remove potential residue from etched regions of the light absorptive layer.