Membrane Switch Assembly

Often the most complex interface products also require custom membrane switch assembly. We use state-of-the-art techniques to assemble custom projects that incorporate our products and services into the final package—without defects, always with the highest quality imaginable. We can also print and include brochures, as well as any branding and labeling that’s required for shipping.

Assembly Highlights

  • Value-Added Service
  • Agile, Flexible Set-Up to Handle Custom Assembly For Any Project
  • Advanced Assembly Techniques To Prevent Defects
  • In-House Printing Capabilities of Brochures, Labels, etc.

Layers of A Membrane Switch Assemblies

Graphic Overlay Layer

The graphic overlay layer is the topmost layer of the membrane switch assembly and serves as the visual interface. It contains the graphical elements, such as icons, labels, and other visual cues, representing the interactive elements available to the user. 

Overlay Adhesive Layer

The overlay adhesive layer is a thin adhesive material applied to the back of the graphic overlay. It securely bonds the graphic overlay to the layers below and ensures its proper alignment and positioning.

Static Shield Layer (optional)

ESD (Electrostatic Discharge) shield layer, is an optional layer that can be included in a membrane switch assembly. It is designed to protect the switch and its internal components from damage caused by electrostatic discharge.

The static shield layer is typically made of a conductive material, such as a metal foil or conductive film, that has low surface resistivity. It acts as a barrier, dissipating any static charges that may build up on the surface of the membrane switch. This layer helps prevent the discharge of static electricity, which can potentially harm sensitive electronic components or disrupt the proper functioning of the switch.

Dome Retainer Layer

The dome retainer layer, also known as the upper circuit layer, is typically made of a rigid material such as polyester or polycarbonate. It provides support and alignment for the dome switches (also known as tactile domes) found in the membrane switch.

Spacer Layer

The spacer layer is a thin material that provides separation between the graphic overlay layer and the lower circuit layers. It ensures that the graphic overlay layer remains in place and prevents accidental actuation of the switches.

Circuit Layer

The circuit layer comprises conductive traces and contacts, typically made of silver conductive ink, etched copper flex or printed circuit boards (PCBa’s). The circuit layer defines the layout and position of the interactive elements (buttons, switches, etc.)

Support Backer Layer (optional)

The backer layer is the bottommost layer of the membrane switch assembly. It provides additional support and protection to the assembly. The backer layer may also include mounting features or adhesive backing for attaching the assembly to a surface.

Membrane Switch Application Procedure

View Membrane Switch Application Procedure as PDF

View PDF

Manufacturing Processes

Step
1
Here the assembly technician is building up the center portion of the panel to support an LCD display window for the membrane switch application on the aluminum door assembly. Reinforcing this area eliminates flex over the LCD and reduces stress on the LEDs located to the right of the display after final assembly.
Step
2
JN White utilizes a custom-designed power element for testing LEDs. The technician ensures all LEDs are lit by pressing each button to check for broken or intermittent contacts. ESD grounding is maintained to prevent static charge interference.
Step
3
Next the technician removes the release liner to expose the pressure-sensitive adhesive on the back of the entire assembly. The pictured assembly includes three tails one for the LED circuit, switch circuit, and shielding layer for this specific project.
Step
4
Aligning and installing the switch is done by using the left or front edge, rolling it out with a soft rubber squeegee from top to bottom to allow air to escape.
Step
5
Applying the graphic overlay to the membrane switch assembly. Due to the three tails passing through the door assembly, this step is performed separately for ease and efficiency. Not all assemblies happen in this order more often the membrane switch is already applied to the graphic overlay before insulation.
Step
6
After final assembly, the technician conducts LED on-time testing to verify the absence of faulty LEDs or static discharge from the assembly process. The assembler then presses each button to ensure proper tactile feedback and that the metal domes retained their shape.

Value-Added Services

Expertise and Experience

JN White’s professional membrane switch assembly team has specialized knowledge and expertise in the field. They understand the intricacies of membrane switch design, materials, and manufacturing processes. By leveraging their experience, you can ensure that your membrane switch assembly is built to the highest standards and meets your specific requirements.

Scalability

If your business demands a significant quantity of membrane switch assemblies, JN White is well-equipped to meet your scalability requirements. With our robust infrastructure and capacity, we can efficiently manufacture a large volume of assemblies, ensuring timely delivery and meeting your production demands. Our streamlined processes and economies of scale enable us to achieve cost savings, providing you with a cost-effective solution.

Supply Chain Management

At JN White we value the relationships with have with our suppliers and can manage the procurement of materials required for the membrane switch assembly. This saves you the hassle of sourcing individual components and ensures a smooth supply chain. Vendor Managed Inventory>

Design and Customization 

Our engineers can optimize your design for manufacturability, ensuring that the assembly process is efficient and cost-effective. Additionally, we can assist with customizations such as incorporating unique graphics, branding elements, or specialized features into the switch assembly.

Warranty and Support

At JN White we provide a 18 month warranty and post-sales support for the membrane switch assemblies we produce. This gives you peace of mind, knowing that you have a reliable partner to address any issues or concerns that may arise after the assembly.

Quality Control

Stringent quality control measures are in place to ensure the reliability and durability of the membrane switch assembly. We conduct thorough testing and inspection at each stage of the assembly process, minimizing the risk of defects or failures. This quality control process helps deliver a high-quality product to you and your customers. 100% of or membrane switches are tested during assembly.

Case Studies

Read about our recent work.

View Case Studies