US Patent 7175310 Mouse pad having illuminated working surface

A mouse pad having a lighted working surface. The surface is illuminated by LEDs, with power being supplied from the USB port of the computer. The LEDs project into a layer of light-transmitting material, such as flexible transparent polyurethane, with the light-transmitting material having a visible upper surface that forms the operating area for the computer mouse. An opaque shield blocks the LEDs from view, so that when energized, only the working area appears illuminated and the LEDs themselves cannot be seen directly. An ornamental design or other article may be mounted or formed in the light-transmitting layer, so that it will be highlighted by the beams of the LEDs and visible through the upper surface of the working area.