Abstract: A long, thin illuminated line of light is provided for highlighting components in an automotive dashboard or interior such as a cup holder or gearshift console. A point light source such as a surface mounted LED or incandescent lamp is located at one end of a light guide. An arcuate rear reflecting surface of the light guide causes total internal reflection of the light from the point light source and produces a uniform light display at a front viewing surface. The line of light can fit into deep recesses of a plastic molded console with minimal spacing (e.g., of only about 0.10 inches) between walls. The line of light can also be used for aesthetic or functional displays such as for consumer electronic equipment and industrial controls.

Abstract: The indicator light, preferably a LED, is mounted in a insulating housing secured by a pair of legs with relatively broad feet which are soldered to conductive pads on the surface of a printed circuit board. Preferably, the printed circuit board uses "surface mount" technology. The leads of the LED are spot welded to the legs to make electrical connections between the LED and the circuit board. The structure elevates the LED above the board surface, and/or allows mounting the LED close to the edge of the circuit board, and/or allows the light from the LED to be directed parallel to the board surface. A particularly advantageous use of the structure is one in which printed circuit boards are arranged in an array with the boards parallel to one another and the LED mounting structures near the end of each board so as to provide maximum visibility of the LEDs from many angles so as to quickly indicate equipment functional status to an operator or trouble-shooter.

Abstract: A socket for a wedge base lamp of the type having leads on opposed walls of the base and a cylindrical envelope is provided. The socket comprises a receptacle having an open top through which the lamp is inserted. A pair of terminals are positioned in the opening for respectively engaging each lead and a recessed seat is provided which engages the enlarged cylindrical envelope to limit downward movement of the lamp into the socket. A pair of opposed flexible and resilient ribs engage the cylindrical envelope. This construction maintains the lamp in a desired orientation.