What matters should be paid attention to in the panel design of membrane switch? Membrane switch is a control system that integrates functional buttons, indicating elements, and instrument panels. Its panels are reflective films. The external component of the switch feature has dual functions of control function and appearance decoration.
Due to the simple structure of the membrane switch, convenient assembly, novel appearance, and a series of characteristics such as small size, light weight, dustproof, waterproof, explosion-proof, harmful gas corrosion resistance, and long life, it is currently used in electronic machines. It aroused great interest and gradually improved. Especially for multi-functional, dense and intelligent electronic products, membrane switches have become the first choice in product design plans. In our country, the application of membrane switches is already very common, but there is still a gap in design compared with domestic ones. The following will focus on discussing with you the 5 points for attention when designing the panel part of the membrane switch:
1. Color
The panel of the membrane switch is mostly made of rough polycarbonate (PC), and the graphics and text are printed on the back of the film through the method of screen printing. It can arbitrarily select the required color, which is difficult to compare with the appearance of conventional metal panels. For this reason, when designing the panel, the characteristics of the product and its application range can be distinguished, and the color can be reasonably selected to fully display the role of color and reflect advanced and scientific design ideas. Although the application of color can generally be realized during the process of manufacturing, in practical application, it is necessary to prescribe the right medicine to the case and handle it carefully, so that the color can serve its function to the greatest extent. For example, text and patterns should have a greater contrast with the color blocks they are rendered on; for parts with strict requirements on corresponding positional relationships and functional key groups with interdependence, it is advisable to use the same color so that they can be printed on the same printing plate. Printing should be done on the surface to avoid the tendency of overprinting process; functional instruments should be gentle and elegant to show seriousness; civilian household appliances can be more ornate to embellish the environment. Generally, 3 to 4 colors are suitable. Too many colors not only make people dazzled, but also increase the difficulty and cost of manufacturing.
2. Text
Text is the medium for operating functions, directly reminding the operator of the function of the function, or explaining the performance of the instrument. When discrete components are used, the panel is usually marked with text near the discrete components. The panel of the membrane switch generally has no external components, and the simulated keyboard or components are represented by color blocks. For this reason, the text can be directly marked on the color block of this functional keyboard, which is more convenient and intuitive. In addition to the above-mentioned specific functions, text plays a role in modifying the appearance of the product to a certain extent, so attention should be paid to the standardization of text. In addition, the choice of text shape should also take into account the characteristics of screen printing, the process of making graphics and text. Therefore, for the commonly used imitation Song typeface, because of its slender and weak strokes, the subtle strokes are difficult to express, and it does not match the strength of the color blocks; Song typeface and block letters are more than simple, but lack novelty, and it is difficult to reconcile with the trendy design style . We advocate the use of phototypesetting to prepare text, and recommend the use of bold and thin line rounded fonts. The strokes of this type of font are equal in width horizontally and vertically, and the font is square and easy to distinguish. It is highly compatible with the overall design and has good reproducibility of craftsmanship.
3. Shape pattern
The so-called shape and enterprise pattern refers to a group of specific graphic signs carefully designed according to the characteristics of a certain operation content of the instrument in addition to the statutory local signs and symbols, to replace the statement of the text. A way of explaining with pictures instead of words that has gradually been applied. Due to the unique conditions of the membrane switch panel, it can give full play to the effect of the shape and pattern, so that the appearance is more period-like. The characteristics of Xingqi patterns are allegorical images, concise and lively, expressive, and promote memory, which can achieve effects that text annotations cannot achieve. For this reason, when designing, we must also follow these principles. The pattern should not be far-fetched, which will make people puzzled, which will affect the use of the instrument on the contrary. When using shape and enterprise patterns for the first time, it is advisable to supplement them with functional words. After they are accepted by people and become a custom, they can be used alone.
4. Key body
The shape of the button on the panel of the membrane switch is not limited by the shape of the available components like the discrete switch components. It can be determined according to the needs of the overall design, it can be round or rectangular. This has greater adaptability and sensitivity than discrete components. Generally, a rectangle should be used, which is more harmonious with the shape of the whole machine. Although there is no uniform standard for the size of the key at present, it should meet the principles of practicality, symmetry, and appearance. Especially for key groups with intensive operating functions, more attention should be paid to whether their size and distance are in line with operating habits and whether they are in line with ergonomics. Consider from the relationship between ergonomics and the versatility of manufacturing molds.
5. Transparent window
Since the panel of the membrane switch is made of transparent polycarbonate (PC) material with special surface treatment, the display part of the instrument can be integrated with the panel without digging holes and opening windows. This is something metal panels cannot do. There are two types of transparent windows: one is used to indicate parameters of display components, called display window; the other is used for light-emitting diode (LED) indication to provide the execution status of operating components, called indicator window. Each transparent window should be designed to be transparent and colored, so that the components at the bottom can be shaded, the atmosphere of the panel can be vivid, and the function of the action can be distinguished. Choosing an appropriate transparent color can also play a role in filtering and adding light to the luminous number display element, making the number display clearer.
The panel design of the membrane switch is related to the image of the appearance of the product. It is necessary to get rid of the traditional program and innovate, but also to take into account the scientific and technological nature to make the designed product more characteristic. To make the designed product more characteristic.
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