Single Layer Stainless Steel Shrapnel is a PET film containing metal domes (potato chips) used on PCB hardboards, multilayer boards, or FPC flexible boards as switches. It serves as an important tactile switch between the user and the instrument. This is the simplest initial structure, where the metal dome is positioned beneath a layer of Mylar (PET with adhesive), featuring ventilation holes to ensure basic tactile feedback and functionality. A single-layer structure requires ventilation holes to be open; if not, it may affect the button's functionality, such as causing dead keys or loss of functionality.
Single layer Metal Dome Features
• The single-layer structure has limited space and insufficient height;
• The single-layer structure must have ventilation holes in the PET cover film for better performance;
• However, ventilation holes may affect waterproofing and dustproofing performance;
• The process uses a 3M adhesive-coated PI adhesive structure for greater durability.
Single Layer Stainless Steel Shrapnel Applications
Consumer Electronics Sector:
This represents its most prevalent application scenario, where the core requirement is to eliminate visual obstruction caused by traditional physical buttons, thereby achieving a seamless and aesthetically integrated device appearance.
Transparent/Semi-Transparent Remote Controls: Examples include home appliance and projector remotes. A membrane switch array beneath the transparent panel enables button functionality while allowing users to faintly perceive internal mechanisms or brand logos, enhancing product sophistication.
Smart wearables: Certain smartwatches and fitness trackers incorporate transparent button zones. This array enables dual touch and pressure interaction, preserving the dial's visual integrity while ensuring precise operation.
Portable electronics: Examples include voice recorders and Bluetooth speakers with transparent casings. The reed switch array can be integrated into the transparent control surface, replacing traditional raised buttons to achieve slimmer, more aesthetically pleasing designs.
Smart Cockpit Applications:
Automotive environments demand exceptional reliability and interaction safety. This array's robust stability and superior light transmission make it the preferred choice for transparent in-vehicle controls.
Transparent Centre Console Keypads: Certain new energy vehicles feature transparent panels paired with spring-loaded membrane switch arrays for press-to-activate controls like climate and volume, without obstructing underlying displays or ambient lighting.
Head-Up Display (HUD) Interaction Zone:
Integrated spring-loaded contact arrays serve as quick-access buttons along the edges of the HUD projection's transparent area. This enables drivers to perform actions like changing tracks or answering calls without diverting their gaze, enhancing driving safety.
Rear-Seat Entertainment Screen Controls:
Concealed spring-loaded buttons can be designed along the sides or bottom of rear-seat transparent entertainment screens, preventing physical buttons from disrupting the screen's visual continuity.
Specialised Display and Interaction Devices:
This array demonstrates particular advantages in scenarios demanding exceptional light transmission and durability.
Transparent Displays / Advertising Screens:
Transparent advertising screens in shopping centres or exhibition halls can integrate spring-loaded key arrays along edges or designated zones. Audience interaction enables content switching or detailed viewing, balancing display functionality with engagement.
Medical Device Control Panels:
Operational zones on certain medical monitors and transparent laboratory equipment utilise this array to enable precise, sterile-environment pressing. The transparent material facilitates observation of internal circuitry status, simplifying maintenance.
Industrial Control Terminals:
On industrial equipment requiring visualised operation (e.g., mechanical controllers with transparent casings), the spring-loaded array serves as a waterproof and dustproof pressing component, adapting to harsh industrial environments.
Custom Dome Arrays
Dome arrays are carriers pre-assembled with polyester domes and backed with pressure-sensitive adhesive. These arrays can be pre-assembled with domes of the required size and shape as specified by you. Different sizes, shapes, and actuation forces of metal domes can be placed on the same array.
The standard carrier material is polyester, but it can be adjusted according to requirements. Array installation is quick and straightforward. Simply remove the backing (release paper), align the array, and adhere it to the circuit board or film. Since all domes can be installed simultaneously, production time is significantly reduced. Custom dome arrays also eliminate "double-doming" and positioning errors, substantially improving product quality.
