Importance

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Abstract

Disclosed is the backlit display and/or backlit keyboard display which have a controlled level of illumination at the surface thereof. Where such switch and/or display are illuminated by a light emitting diode, the present invention interposes an optical filter between the light emitting diode and the surface of the cover. The optical filter contains a pattern thereon having a variable density distribution of opaque material which in a preferred embodiment is densest in the area closest to the light emitting diode and decreases in density in areas away from the light emitting diode. In a preferred embodiment the optical filter is a 'negative' of the illumination without a filter present. The result in both the switch and display embodiments is a substantially constant level of illumination across the surface of the cover. Further disclosed is at least one slot in translucent layers which may be incorporated in a switch or display which reduces 'crosstalk' between switches and/or displays. Additionally the use of a reflective material as the optical filter, in combination with and separated from a reflective layer near the LED by a separator layer, provides increased illumination of the display or switch.

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First Claim