Custom Prototype LCD Membrane Switch Transparent Window Design For Easy Input

Custom Prototype LCD Membrane Switch Transparent Window Design For Easy Input

A custom prototype LCD membrane switch with a transparent window design is designed for easy input and incorporates several key elements [1][2]. Here's a breakdown of the design considerations and components:

1. Components & Construction:

• Graphic Overlay: This is the top layer, providing the visual interface [1][3]. It can be screen printed or digitally printed to achieve desired effects [1].
• Transparent Window: This allows users to view underlying displays, LEDs, or indicators [1][4]. They can be clear, tinted, or frosted, depending on the application [3][4].
• Circuitry Layer: This layer enables connectivity within the device. It can be a printed circuit board (PCB) or a flexible circuit, with the choice depending on the product's requirements [1].
• Tactile or Non-Tactile Switch: Membrane switches can be tactile, providing physical feedback like a "snap" when pressed, or non-tactile, which don't offer this feedback [3]. Tactile switches often incorporate a metal or poly dome to create the tactile response [3][5].
• Adhesive Layer: This layer combines the switch to the graphic overlay and binds the entire assembly to the product [6].
• Rear Adhesive: Used for adhering the membrane switch to the application surface [3].

2. Design Considerations:

• Material Selection: Common materials include polyester and polycarbonate films, chosen for their durability, chemical resistance and scratch resistance [3][7]. Polyester is known for its robustness and can withstand up to 5 million actuations, while polycarbonate is generally rated for fewer actuations [3].
• Clarity and Transparency: The required level of transparency depends on the application. High transparency is essential for accurately viewing displays, while less clear windows may suffice for simple indicators [4].
• Embossing: Pillow or rim embossing can be added to the overlay to create tactile key designs [3].
• Backlighting: Consider backlighting options like embedded LEDs, light guide film, fiber optics, or electroluminescent (EL) backlighting to improve usability in low-light conditions [1][3]. Transparent colors can filter backlight displays and reduce blooming, while translucent colors diffuse indicator lights [3].
• Tactile Feedback: If tactile feedback is desired, consider using metal domes, which provide a more noticeable snap [5][8].
• Environmental Factors: Consider the temperature and humidity range the switch will experience, potential contaminants or chemicals, and exposure to moisture or UV light [2].
• Electrical Requirements: Determine the number of contact points, the type of pinout or matrix (common bus, X-Y matrix), acceptable closed-loop resistance, and the need for electrostatic or EMI shielding [2].
• Mechanical Requirements: Consider whether tactile response is needed, the material to which the switch will be laminated, the number of actuations the product will receive, and actuation force [2].
• Adhesive: Select an appropriate adhesive based on environmental conditions, the substrate (metal, plastic, paint), and the surface smoothness [2][6]. Low surface energy materials and rough surfaces can be more difficult to adhere to [2].

3. Windows

• Material: Transparent windows are made from materials like polyester or polycarbonate [7].
• Scratch Resistance: Protective coatings are often applied to enhance scratch resistance and protect the underlying graphics [4][7].
• Types: Windows can be clear, tinted, or frosted [4]. Clear windows are ideal for applications needing accurate and immediate information, like medical devices [4].

4. Prototyping:

• Creating prototypes is recommended to test the design, functionality and feel of the membrane switch before mass production [1].
• Prototypes allow for verification of design, material quality, aesthetics, and the effectiveness of the user interface [9].

Product Performance Index

 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

Polycarbonate

1.Wide range of surface finishes and thicknesses

2.More cost-effective 3.For internal and external use

2) Embossing--rim embossing pillow embossing dim embpssing

Graphic overlays can be embossed in order to insert domes (tactile), leave space for mechanical keys and provide tactile indications Pedestal embossing

3)Windows ----for display function

1. print colors windows

2.transparent finishes windows

4)Keys/buttons

Tactile keys---with metal dome or poly dome

Non-tactile--silver printing spot

5) Embeded LEDs-

miniature LED, LED colors:white, yellow, orange, green, red, etc.

6)Cable

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 or acrylic

 More photos show :
 
 

 
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 .
 

QC/QA
20% Employee are QC/QA workers ,quality Guaranteed

Dispatch Department
Power dispatch ability to ensure shipping accuracy and speed
 

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.