With more technological advancements, the use of membrane switches has been on the rise. Membrane switches have become mandatory in almost all machines and gadgets that need regular human-machine interaction. The application area of membrane switches is wide. They are used in medical, industrial, household, aerospace and other equipment. In this article we will learn about a membrane switch and its benefits.
What is a membrane switch?
A membrane switch is a type of human-machine interface which is constructed using many layers of plastic films or other flexible materials. On these plastic films' surface conductive materials and graphic inks are laminated or printed. These switches work when an electric circuit is temporarily closed or opened. Due to their efficient and compact construction, membrane switches are used in different industrial and household appliances as interfaces. With the emergence of equipment and appliances with small electronic components there has been rising demand for membrane switches.
Benefits of membrane switches
The membrane switch has multiple benefits. These switches are extensively used in different domestic, industrial and commercial applications. Other than membrane switches, other popular human-machine interfaces are keyboards, touchscreens, switches etc. But a membrane switch is preferred because of its simple construction, compact design, reliability, low cost and resistance to external harmful elements.
Compact profile - Depending on the design of a membrane switch, there are three to six layers of plastic or flexible material. The thickness of each plastic layer is about 0.127 to 1.03 mm. Even after the installation of other components such as EMF screens and metallic domes and application of conductive and graphic inks on the surface, the thickness of a membrane switch increases by only a fraction of an inch.
Simple construction - The graphics design on a membrane switch is simple to construct. It is made using software such as Adobe Illustrator, AutoCAD, SolidWorks etc. There is no need for stamping, engraving or embossing.
Tactile feedback- Membrane switches gives tactile feedback. Tactile feedback is required in applications that have risks of equipment shutdown or malfunction. When tactile feedback is given, operator knows that a key is pressed.
Resistance against external elements- Membrane switches come with sealed construction. The polycarbonates and polyesters used for making membrane switches create efficient barrier against chemicals and moisture while the visibility of the graphics artwork is not reduced. So, membrane switches provide high resistance against external elements.
Easy cleaning and maintenance- Membrane switches can be cleaned and maintained easily. You can wipe off dirt from the overlay using a cloth. While cleaning, the electrical circuit does not get damaged. The electrical circuit consists of a few moving parts so membrane switches need minimal or no maintenance. To read more Click Here
