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Touch Switching Technology
The way a user interacts with a product will always be a significant element in its commercial success. Touch switching technology has grown to become the dominant interface for technology products in the consumer market. Projective capacitive sensing becoming the most widely used touch technology, however, it is not the only option for developers considering touch integration for products in both consumer, IoT and industrial markets.
Diamond HMI offers touch interface solutions using Capacitive, Resistive and Force-sensing technologies which can offer specific benefits depending on the application.
Keypads using Touch Switching technology are one of the most reliable switch solutions available for electronic products. Diamond HMI offer our own designs of custom capacitive keypads as well as Force Sensing keypads via our association with ALGRA, a world leader in force-sensing touch switching interfaces.
Since the integration of touch screens into consumer applications such as mobile phones and tablets, a shift to them being used in industrial applications has followed. User familiarity, and rapid developments in the technology making them a popular choice for engineers. Durability, high water, and scratch-resistant, and sensitive key operation are just some of the features that have made them a versatile keypad solution for industrial environments. Touch panels also delivering a more modern looking interface solution, with extra functions and no moving parts, so they tend to last longer than traditional switches.
There are a variety of different touch switch technologies available, the varying design features can be adapted to suit a wide range of external and internal environments, at Diamond we can advise the best Touch Switching Technology based on your individual project.
How does Touch Switching technology work?
All Touch-sensitive technologies use a “Touch” IC which is either built into the keypad itself or can be incorporated into the customers own electronics. The IC is programmed to reflect the customer application and the size and shape of the individual keys. In Capacitive keypads the electronics sensing the change in the field around the key caused by the press of a finger. In Force Sensing technology the IC senses the very small deflection of the front panel material or the change of resistance when the key area is pressed.
Benefits of using Touch Switching Technology
- Long switch life
- Easy to clean surface
- No moving or mechanical parts
- Backlighting options available
- High responsiveness
- Adjustable Haptic feedback
Touch Switching Interfaces can enhance applications, with a range of design features available, and easy integration into product designs. Common applications include automotive, industrial control panels, and kitchen applications.
Diamond HMI offers a range of touch technologies:
If you require any guidance as to what touch technology would be best for your project, contact us via the below form or call us on +44 (0)1477 500450.