What are the membrane switch components

The membrane switch component mainly includes the following key parts:

1、Panel layer

Material characteristics

The panel layer is the outer layer of the membrane switch,which directly contacts the user.It usually uses polyester(PET)or polycarbonate(PC)materials.Polyester materials have good flexibility,chemical resistance,and mechanical strength.For example,in the film switches of some outdoor equipment,polyester panels can resist the erosion of environmental factors such as rainwater and ultraviolet rays.Polycarbonate materials have high transparency and impact resistance,making them suitable for applications that require clear display of operating interfaces,such as film switches in electronic instruments.

The surface of the panel layer can be treated with various methods,such as sanding to reduce fingerprint residue and improve tactile sensation;Hardening treatment can enhance the wear resistance of the panel,prevent surface scratches,and extend the service life of the membrane switch.

Functional role

The panel layer mainly plays the role of protecting the internal circuit and providing the operation interface.It can print a variety of patterns,characters and logos,allowing users to intuitively understand the function and operation of the film switch.At the same time,it can also prevent dust,moisture and other foreign bodies from entering the internal circuit to ensure the normal operation of the film switch.

Second,the printing line layer

Materials and technology

The printed line layer is generally made by printing conductive ink on polyester film through screen printing and other processes.The composition and performance of conductive ink are very important to the quality of the line.Common conductive inks contain conductive particles such as silver powder and copper powder,and the size,shape and content of these particles will affect the conductivity and adhesion of the ink.For example,silver paste conductive inks have good electrical conductivity and chemical stability to ensure the accuracy and reliability of signal transmission.

The precision of the printed line is also very important,and the parameters such as the width,spacing and shape of the line need to be strictly controlled.The high-precision printed circuit can realize complex circuit design and meet different functional requirements,such as in some multi-functional film switches,independent control and signal transmission of multiple keys can be realized.

Functional role

The printed line layer is the conductive part of the film switch,which is responsible for transmitting the operating signal of the key to the external circuit.When the user presses the key,the corresponding contact of the line layer is switched on and the signal is sent out.At the same time,it can also be connected with other electronic components(such as LED indicators)to achieve the indication function,so that users can intuitively understand the working status of the device.

Three,isolation layer

Materials and properties

The isolation layer is usually made of an insulating material,such as mylar or polyethylene film.These materials have good insulation properties and can prevent short circuits between line layers.The thickness of the isolation layer also has certain requirements,too thin may not be effective isolation,too thick will increase the overall thickness of the film switch.

The surface flatness is also very important,and the flat isolation layer can ensure uniform isolation between the line layers to avoid the risk of short circuit due to local contact.

Functional role

The main function of the isolation layer is to isolate the different parts of the printed line layer and ensure the independence between the individual circuits.In the film switch,there may be multiple lines corresponding to the keys,and the isolation layer can prevent signal interference and short circuit between these lines to ensure the electrical reliability of the film switch.

4.Shrapnel layer(optional)

Materials and properties

The shrapnel layer is usually made of metal or elastomer material.Metal shrapnel(such as stainless steel shrapnel)has good elasticity and electrical conductivity,and can provide a stable keying touch and reliable electrical connection.Elastomer shrapnel(such as silicone shrapnel)has better flexibility and fatigue resistance,and is suitable for film switches that require frequent pressing.

The shape and size of the shrapnel can also affect its performance.For example,dome-shaped shrapnel can provide clear tactile feedback when pressed,and can effectively reduce contact resistance and improve signal transmission quality.

Functional role

The shrapnel layer provides tactile feedback and reliable electrical contact for the keys.When the user presses the button,the elastic deformation of the shrapnel causes the upper and lower line layers to contact and conduct,and gives the user a clear press feedback to confirm that the operation has been completed.In some equipment with high requirements for operation feel,the quality of the shrapnel layer directly affects the user's experience.