Custom keyboard unit with soft-touch surface and LED backlighting
For a sophisticated user interface solution, we developed a custom keyboard unit that combines aesthetics, tactile feel, and functionality in a single component. In this project, the keyboard layout was applied directly to the curved front frame using multi-component injection molding. This resulted in a seamless, perfectly fitting unit without any additional assembly steps.
Technical implementation using the multi-component injection molding process
We manufacture the basic plastic housing and the transparent silicone keyboard layout in one step. integrated multi-component injection molding processThis process combines both materials in a single step. The silicone material is injected directly onto the pre-molded front frame within the mold, creating a permanent and form-fitting connection between the substrate and the keypad. This combined manufacturing process achieves high dimensional accuracy, a precise fit, and excellent stability. Simultaneously, the transparent silicone forms the basis for the subsequent backlighting of the functional areas, enabling even and precise light distribution.
After shaping, we refine the surface with a black soft-touch paint finishThis coating not only offers a pleasant feel but also ensures a high-quality appearance and reliable surface protection. The illuminated areas are then precisely cut out of the lacquer layer using laser ablation, resulting in clearly defined and homogeneously illuminated symbols. This ensures optimal readability even in challenging lighting conditions and meets the highest standards of function and design.
The combination of multi-component injection molding, soft-touch surface and backlit symbols creates a robust, durable and design-oriented keyboard unit that meets both optical and functional requirements and is ideally suited for use in modern HMI applications.
Technical features and benefits
- Manufacturing process: Multi-component injection molding (plastic + transparent silicone)
- Surface: Black soft-touch coating with laser engraving of the lighting windows.
- Symbolic: Raised arrow keys
- Lighting technology: Uniform LED backlighting across transparent silicone areas
- Customization: Layout, lettering and color scheme according to customer specifications
- Process advantage: No separate assembly of keyboard and front bezel required.
As full-service partner We actively support our customers from the initial idea through development and design to series production. In doing so, we combine our many years of experience in the development, design, and manufacturing of customized operating units with a clear focus on quality, functionality, and cost-effectiveness. This results in individual solutions that impress with their design, ease of use, and technical precision.
We support our customers in developing new HMI solutions or optimizing existing operating concepts. Together, we analyze the technical requirements, develop a suitable concept, and accompany the entire process until series production is ready.
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