Abstract: An illuminated control panel typically for an audio device used in an automobile. The control panel includes a front panel made of a light conducting material through which push buttons and switches extend. A light conducting diffuser extends over a substantial portion of the rear surface of the front panel. The light conducting diffuser contains a plurality of sources of light which produce a generally uniform distribution of light throughout the light conducting diffuser. The illuminated light conducting diffuser back lights the entire area of the front panel, thereby increasing the general illumination of the control panel and facilitating the location and identity of the push buttons and switches. The front panel is preferably colored to improve its general appeal and appearance. In an alternative embodiment, the control panel includes one or more trim plates that are attachable to the front panel and may be used and exchanged at the choice of the user.

Abstract: An illuminated control panel typically for an audio device used in an automobile. The control panel includes a front panel made of a light conducting material through which push buttons and switches extend. A light conducting diffuser extends over a substantial portion of the rear surface of the front panel. The light conducting diffuser contains a plurality of sources of light which produce a generally uniform distribution of light throughout the light conducting diffuser. The illuminated light conducting diffuser back lights the entire area of the front panel, thereby increasing the general illumination of the control panel and facilitating the location and identity of the push buttons and switches. The front panel is preferably colored to improve its general appeal and appearance. In an alternative embodiment, the control panel includes one or more trim plates that are attachable to the front panel and may be used and exchanged at the choice of the user.

Abstract: A plug-in adaptor for playing standard cassettes in an 8-track stereo cartridge player, wherein the mechanical power for playing and rewinding the tape in the cassette is provided by the capstan of the 8-track player. A pickup head in the adaptor senses the magnetic signals from the cassette tape as it is driven past the pickup head, and these signals are amplified by an adaptor amplifier and supplied to a magnetic coupler in the adaptor adjacent the 8-track tape playback head, which receives the signals for transmission to the electronics and speakers of the 8-track unit. Electric power for the adaptor amplifier is drawn from an 8-track tape sensor ordinarily used to sense the end of an 8-track tape.

Abstract: The device for automatically cleaning operating parts of a cassette tape deck is provided. The apparatus is enclosed in the frame of a standard cassette. Tape head cleaning is accomplished by a cleaning pad reciprocally moved across the tape head. An arm on which the pad is located is driven by cams powered by the take-up spindle of the tape deck. Capstan and pinch roller cleaning occurs when a second cleaning pad is spring biased against them as they turn. Solvents can be added to the cleaning pads to dislodge deposits.