Industrial Tactile Feedback Case Study

A global manufacturer of electric motors and electronic instruments partnered with JN White® to help engineer and produce a new industrial electronics membrane switch. The company requested a switch that could control the functions of a unit that protects the main breakers between substations for power companies. JN White® was able to produce a high-quality switch for the company, due to their proven experience and production expertise in area of membrane switches.

Challenges

The company’s membrane switch units are located in substations with challenging environments. Prior to pairing with JN White®, the company’s switch operators were unable to easily feel that a switch was activated, because they were often wearing gloves. Therefore, the company was in need of a switch with distinct tactile feedback that can withstand dust, dirt and temperature changes. To aid in preventing EMI/ESD penetrating through the display, the company needed protective coating over the display window. Additionally, they needed the membrane switch to be tested so that they could be certain its LEDs were 100% functional.

How JN White® Helped

JN White®’s in-house membrane switch team successfully produced a tactile feedback feature for the switch to ensure that the end user can now feel that the switch is activated. To tackle the problem of combatting EMI/ESD, JN White® reviewed the static sensory rating of LEDs from multiple providers and selected the best option. By taking the time to do this review, JN White® was able to confidently provide the company with a product perfectly produced to their exact specifications. Additionally, JN White® advised that the artwork on the buttons should include a fine gradient, ensuring that the membrane switch created was both functional and aesthetically appealing.

Results

In order to fix all of the company’s past challenges with the switch and prepare them for success in the future, JN White® meticulously created and produced a membrane switch fit to the company’s exact specifications. JN White® screen-printed the overlay on clear polyester with a 55% anti-glare hard coat.

All artwork, including the gradients for the buttons, was printed subsurface for protection, and then a texture was printed on the top surface for overall durability.

This step ensured both the practicality and attractiveness of the switch. Due to the high sensitivity of electromagnetism, JN White® chose to review the static sensitivity rating of LEDs from multiple providers. JN White® also used conductive ITO (Indium Tin Oxide) coated polyester film in the display area.

See What Our Customers Are Saying

"Very pleased with your team's response to our need during the COVID-19 crisis."
Lisa L., Medical Device
"JN White has been exceptional in working with our company in order to develop the look and feel of our new MRI patient worn transmitter. We had originally worked with a prior manufacturer for an earlier version of this product with much less desirable results. JN White delivered a clean professional product at a very reasonable price on time!"
Gary P., Medical
"We had very little information to work with and Jessica James made it nearly effortless on our end to get us exactly what we needed in a timely manner."
Lexi W., Industrial Equipment
"Getting any after-market graphic overlays done always has a certain risk factor in getting it all right. You guys were helpful, patient, & knowledgeable to achieve the best end result. Even pointing out some things that might be [an] oversight or [areas for] improvements. The outcome was perfect."
John S., Technology
"The print task was between the USA and Australia and everything went so smooth. I submitted a drawing, got a return email for me to confirm what I wanted. Even though this was over the Christmas period the print was waiting for me when I got back to work after the holidays. Great job and thanks."
Matt C., Military
"All of the folks there at JN White that I have talked to and dealt with have been very nice and professional."
Vern L., Industrial
"Customer service is wonderful. Receive confirmations and responses in a timely manner. Product has great quality."
Sara H., Medical
"It has been a pleasure working with JN White. We switched suppliers for some of our products to your company and you have given us higher quality. Excellent work!"
Roger W., Education
"I feel confident that JN White will do my order correctly."
Marie P., Government
"I found working with Sara to be a pleasant experience. We were trying to dial in the color to get just the right look on the printed substrate...Sara sent us a sample print sheet that had several variations, up and down, from the colors we specified, which allowed me to pick exactly the color we wanted. The end result product is perfect!"
Don M., Safety
"Our department has used JN White for a number of years for our inspection labels. They always respond very quickly when we contact them to place an order and communication is great with any questions we have. Highly recommend them."
Jim R., Government
"Easy process and great people to work with."
Richard Z., Military
"I'm very satisfied with your service. Always looking forward to bring the best!"
Ramses Z., Medical Devices
"JN White is very responsive to their customers. Product is delivered as expected...and they provide quality products. They have a clear understanding of the obstacles facing US based customers regarding the entire supply chain."
Bob M., Point of Sale
"We always deal with Steve Matacz. He is the best at making sure all details are perfect. Timely communication with any questions we have."
Paul A., Recreational
"Customer response time is one of the best; always prompt and helpful. On-time performance the last 12 months is 100%."
RoseMarie C., Utilities
"Customer service, quality and lead time are great! No complaints."
Sara H., Medical Devices