Custom Legend Printing Membrane Switch With Graphic Overlay And Tactile Snap Domes For Electronical Keyboard Design

Custom Legend Printing Membrane Switch With Graphic Overlay And Tactile Snap Domes For Electronical Keyboard Design

A custom legend printing membrane switch with a graphic overlay and tactile snap domes is a type of user interface component often used in electronic keyboards and other devices. Here's a breakdown of the key aspects:

1. Definition.

• A membrane switch is a low-profile electrical switch that activates a circuit when pressed, relying on flexible layers instead of mechanical parts like springs [1][2].
• It's a "momentary action" switch, meaning the circuit is normally open and closes only when pressed [3].

2. Construction & Components [4][5]:

• Graphic Overlay: This is the top layer, often customized with graphics, text, or symbols to indicate the function of each switch area [5]. It provides a visual interface for the user [2][5].
• Adhesive Layer: Adheres the graphic overlay to the circuit layer [6].
• Spacer Layer: This layer separates the graphic overlay from the circuit layer. It provides definition and separation for individual switch areas and may include venting channels [2][5].
• Circuit Layer: The bottom layer contains conductive traces and dome switches that detect the user's input [5]. It can be a flexible film with printed conductive inks (silver or carbon), etched copper on a Kapton base, or a printed circuit board (PCB) [3][7].
• Tactile Domes: Metal or poly domes are incorporated to provide tactile feedback in the form of a physical "snap" when the button is pressed [4][8].
• Rear Adhesive: Provides strength and protects the underlying parts [2][4].

3. Customization.

• Graphic Overlays: Can be customized with logos, instructions, labels, and other graphical elements using screen printing, digital printing, or hot-stamp printing [5].
• Materials: Polyester, polycarbonate, or other durable films are used for graphic overlays [5]. Polyester is often preferred for its chemical resistance and durability [4][9].
• Legend Printing: Incorporation of custom graphics, text, or symbols onto the switch surface [5].
• Insertable legends: Customizable labels or overlays that fit into a membrane switch, allowing for easy changes to match different languages or branding [10].

4. Tactile vs. Non-Tactile Switches [4][9]:

• Tactile: Include a metal or poly dome to provide a physical "snap" when the button is pressed [4].
• Non-Tactile: Do not have a dome and provide no physical feedback [4].

5. Advantages of Membrane Switches [2][7]:

• Slim and compact design [2][7].
• Customizable with various designs, colors, and finishes [5][7].
• Durable and resistant to wear and tear [7][11].
• Easy to clean and maintain [5].
• Cost-effective to manufacture [2][7].

6. Metal Domes.

• Provide tactile feedback [1][12].
• Available in various sizes, styles, and forces [12].
• Can have life ratings of up to 10 million presses [12].
• Different dome shapes (4-legged, oblong) offer varying activation forces and life expectancies [4].

7. Graphic Overlay Design Considerations.

• Material Selection: Polyester is popular due to its chemical resistance and ability to withstand key actuations [4][8].
• Embossing: Raised tactile elements can enhance the look and functionality of the graphic overlay [6][8].

8. Applications.

• Remote controls [11].
• Game systems [2].
• Home appliances [13].
• Industrial equipment [13].
• Medical devices [13].
• Keyboards [2].

 Specification:

1)Material (for front or face overlay)

Polyester:

1.Highly versatile for embossing

2.Highly resistant to chemicals

3.Better durability

4.For internal and external use, UV resistance

Polycarbonate:

1.Different surface(Glossy, Matt) and thickness(From 0.12mm~2mm)

2. cost-effective in price

3.For internal and external use

2) Embossing

Rim embossing/pillow embossing/dimple embossing

Graphic overlays can be embossed in order to insert domes/LED, leave space for mechanical keys/LED and provide tactile indications and better tactile feeling.

3)Windows(for display function)

1. print different colors windows, As transparent grey/Red/green window for display

2. Clear/Transparent window for LCD display

2. Matt/semi-transparent window for LED

4)Keys/buttons

Tactile keys---with metal dome or poly dome

Non-tactile--silver printing dots with flat key

5) Embeded LEDs

Small, brilliant lights only about 0.02’’ in height. Avaliable in several vibrant colors.

LED colors: white, yellow, orange, green, red, or double colors LED.

6)Cable

It is an extension of the printed circuit and is used to communicate with your device.

7)Types of connector

1.Zero insertion force (ZIF) connector; 2.Female connector; 3.male connector

8) EMI / RFI / ESD Shielding

use an aluminum foil shielding / a clear ITO electrical conductive polyester

9)Adhesive

mostly used are 3M-double-side glue

10)Backplate-

in aluminum, polycarbonate, acrylic, PCB

Applications:
Control panels for household appliances, office equipment, and industrial machinery
Keypads and control interfaces for consumer electronics, medical devices, and automotive systems
Signage and user interfaces for kiosks, vending machines, and other self-service devices
Dashboard controls and instrumentation for vehicles, boats, and heavy equipment
Touchpads and control surfaces for various types of equipment and devices

 
 
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About ShenZhen TaiDa Menbrane switch CO.,LTD
 
Taida are an OEM professional specializing in designing and manufacturing membrane switch ,graphic overlay and adhesive sticker/labels with with more than 15 years experience in Shenzhen of China which are widely used in industrial,electronics,household appliance,medical equipments.we have more than 500 different customers .and most of our customer come from USA ,EU ,UK ,middle east and other famous country of world wide.Taida can supply different kinds of Membrane switch based on each client's request .
 
Factory Strength:

Factory Area: Over 2000 Square meters
Employee :＞ 70
 
R＆D
Continued quality improvement ,professional Tech support and latest design
From our R＆D department for customers’ demand or samples
 
Manufacturing
Strong productivity and unified producing process to ensure the fastest delivery time.
 
QC/QA
20% Employee are QC/QA workers ,quality Guaranteed
 

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