A membrane keypad offers a user-friendly interface to the users. Using this interface, you can easily operate or communicate with an instrument or machine.The modern-day gadgets and electronics use membrane keypads in order to maximize the experience of the users. The silicon rubber switches are one type of membrane switches. This type of membrane switches uses the compression-molded silicone rubber material with the non-conductive rubber actuators or the conductive carbon pills. The process of compression molding forms an angled web around the center of a keypad. This webbing collapses or deforms once you press the switch in order to produce a tactile response. The webbing also helps the keypad return to its normal position once you release the pressure. In the silicon rubber keypad, the conductive pill or printed conductive ink establishes contact with a PCB for the closure of switch circuit. This contact is established after pressing the switch.
Main Features of Rubber Keypad
Similar to a copper-flex or silver-flex membrane keypad, the rubber keypads are made of a collection of layers. It is essential to properly integrate each layer in order to ensure flawless performance. A Printed Circuit Board (PCB) stays underneath the silicone rubber keypad. The display remains at the back and the membrane switches remain at the front of PCB assembly. The majority of the rubber keypads use LEDs or fiber-optic lamps as the back lighting components. The rubber keypads are also fitted with the LCD or touch-screen display.
A rubber keypad is usually attached to a device with hard back-panel for structural support. The rigid sub panel or support panel may be made of various materials, such as aluminum, ABS, poly carbonate and stainless steel. The back-panel of the rubber keypad may have flat surface or may have holes/studs depending upon the requirements of the clients. It is possible for the aluminum back-panels to be made of raw/painted/anodized aluminum depending upon clients’ requirements.An enclosure or molded casing holds all components of rubber keypads.
Design Considerations and Techniques for Silicone Rubber Keypads
To ensure optimum performance, a manufacturer has to consider a variety of factors at the time of designing a silicone rubber keypad, such as tactile response. It is possible to change the degree of tactile response with a change in web geometry and hardness of the silicone rubber.The hardness that is measured in Durometer may range from Shore 30A-90A. The tactile response also depends upon the size of rubber keys. For example, It is possible to generate an actuation force that is as high as 500-gm with the keys of particular shape and size.
The snap ratio also determines the tactile response of a rubber keypad. The 40%-60% snap ratios can maximize the longevity and the feel of keypad. The snap-action feel may reduce significantly if the snap-ratio dips below 40%.To enhance the looks of silicone rubber keypads with various colors, the manufacturers use the flow-molding and laser-etching techniques. Visit Here: CSI Keyboards, Inc.
Main Features of Rubber Keypad
Similar to a copper-flex or silver-flex membrane keypad, the rubber keypads are made of a collection of layers. It is essential to properly integrate each layer in order to ensure flawless performance. A Printed Circuit Board (PCB) stays underneath the silicone rubber keypad. The display remains at the back and the membrane switches remain at the front of PCB assembly. The majority of the rubber keypads use LEDs or fiber-optic lamps as the back lighting components. The rubber keypads are also fitted with the LCD or touch-screen display.
A rubber keypad is usually attached to a device with hard back-panel for structural support. The rigid sub panel or support panel may be made of various materials, such as aluminum, ABS, poly carbonate and stainless steel. The back-panel of the rubber keypad may have flat surface or may have holes/studs depending upon the requirements of the clients. It is possible for the aluminum back-panels to be made of raw/painted/anodized aluminum depending upon clients’ requirements.An enclosure or molded casing holds all components of rubber keypads.
Design Considerations and Techniques for Silicone Rubber Keypads
To ensure optimum performance, a manufacturer has to consider a variety of factors at the time of designing a silicone rubber keypad, such as tactile response. It is possible to change the degree of tactile response with a change in web geometry and hardness of the silicone rubber.The hardness that is measured in Durometer may range from Shore 30A-90A. The tactile response also depends upon the size of rubber keys. For example, It is possible to generate an actuation force that is as high as 500-gm with the keys of particular shape and size.
The snap ratio also determines the tactile response of a rubber keypad. The 40%-60% snap ratios can maximize the longevity and the feel of keypad. The snap-action feel may reduce significantly if the snap-ratio dips below 40%.To enhance the looks of silicone rubber keypads with various colors, the manufacturers use the flow-molding and laser-etching techniques. Visit Here: CSI Keyboards, Inc.
