Human-machine interface (HMI) technology has made it easy to manage industrial and process control machinery via a graphical user interface. One HMI technology that has been changing the lives of many industries and individuals is membrane switch technology. It’s an extraordinarily reliable technology when it’s appropriately sealed with a graphic overlay.
Membrane switch design technology has changed significantly over the years. What started with a simple screen-printed graphic overlay has evolved into the latest designs with a comprehensive human-machine interface.
Membrane switch technology is a mainstay in many industrial environments. This can be attributed to its impeccable durability and versatility. Specifically, membrane switches are popular in the medical industries where performance and repeatability are vital.
When it comes to membrane switch design, there are many options to choose from and finding the right design depends on the users end application. There are many components in designing a membrane switch but none more important than the graphic overlay. The overlay is typically the first part of the device that the user notices and helps the user identify how to control the device. Graphic overlays are one of the top-notch components of membrane switches that offer robust benefits.
Graphic overlays are the visual part of the membrane switch interface and will impact your design and branding. These overlay provides an essential visual marketing aspect to your product. Your graphic overlay should be made of the best material, designed in the most pleasing colors and have the appropriate size and dimensions.
A graphic overlay will oftentimes feature a display window, embossed buttons, or LED windows. The graphic overlays most common to membrane switches are printed using polyester or polycarbonate film and will last through many years of industrial use. An anti-glare coating, textured surface, and vibrant colors are other incredible ways to customize your graphic overlay.
With this in mind, here are the key components to consider when designing the graphic overlay in your membrane switch.
Your brand should appeal to your target client base at all times. Graphic overlays provide you with this opportunity. The overlays you opt for should give your products a style and display your company logo.
A well-designed and high-quality graphic overlay will give your business an edge above your competitors. It will speak volumes about your products and brand in general. The sleek look of your overlays, the logo, and the tagline will enhance customer recognition, loyalty, and brand equity.
Unique graphic display will create consistency and make it easy for your business to make decisions quickly when it comes to customer experience. Therefore, the design you opt for should be related more to the user and provide features that will improve its functionality.
Make sure your graphic overlays are comfortable to the touch, are legible and easy to operate. You can use raised buttons or embossed features for an easy to navigate interface and better user experience.
Backlighting is essential if you want to make your membrane switch design more visible to users. Design your icons or buttons cautiously so they can be lit from behind, even if your overlay is not illuminated. Use LED display to show tasks such as on and off, up and down, or a number keypad.
With the right features for your graphic overlays, your membrane switches will last for many years. The overlay you choose should protect your products against a variety of weather conditions and other harsh environments. Durability is a must for products used in different industrial settings.
The most robust graphic overlay designs for your membrane switches are:
Are you looking for help creating a great first impression of your brand? Worry no more! Butler Technologies will help create the best user interface with one-of-a-kind graphic overlays for your membrane switches. Get in touch today and learn more.
Jaclyn is a Marketing Communications Specialist on the BTI Team. She serves as the Content Manager, where she primarily manages social media channels, SEO, Public Relations, and website development. To get to know more about Jaclyn, check her out on LinkedIn!