Abstract: A backlit button assembly suitable for use in an illuminated graphic display in an instrument panel of an automobile. The backlit assembly is composed of a support member and any number of molded plastic or silicone rubber buttons or keys that, together with the support member, form a keypad or switchpad. Each button of the assembly is injection molded to include a translucent portion that enables light to be transmitted from a backside of the button to a front surface of the button accessible to a person operating the button assembly. Each button is disposed at least partially within an opening formed in the support member, and has at least one integrally-formed hinge member that is directly adhered to the support member. The hinge member flexibly interconnects the button with the support member such that the button is flexibly supported within the opening in the support member.

Abstract: Apparatus comprising a decal disposed on an interior surface of a window and a light source for projecting light onto the to display an image outside of the vehicle. The decal comprises a protective layer having a hologram layer disposed thereon that is designed to transmit a holographic image in a predetermined viewing direction. An opaque and clear mask layer into which an icon is incorporated may be secured to the hologram layer to provide a two-dimensional image. The hologram layer is illuminated by sunlight, skylight, or a light source and projects an image to a viewer at a predefined direction. During the day, the icon is viewable because light transmits through the clear portions of the mask layer is clear, and is blocked by opaque portions of the mask layer that define the icon. At night, the decal is illuminated by light from a light source 18, or an exterior or ambient light source to produce an image viewable by the observer.

Abstract: A backlit button assembly suitable for use in an illuminated graphic display in an instrument panel of an automobile. The backlit assembly is composed of a support member and any number of molded plastic or silicone rubber buttons or keys that, together with the support member, form a keypad or switchpad. Each button of the assembly is injection molded to include a translucent portion that enables light to be transmitted from a backside of the button to a front surface of the button accessible to a person operating the button assembly. Each button is disposed at least partially within an opening formed in the support member, and has at least one integrally-formed hinge member that is directly adhered to the support member. The hinge member flexibly interconnects the button with the support member such that the button is flexibly supported within the opening in the support member.