User interface (UI) design is the gateway between your product and the end user. Whether accomplished through a membrane switch or a capacitive touch sensor, the design and reliability of its underlying technology is what shapes the user experience.

DuraTech’s experts specialize in crafting tailored controls for your product. By leveraging in-mold structural electronics (IMSE®) and capacitive touch designs, we offer unparalleled resources, innovation and speed. Partner with us to deliver cutting-edge haptic feedback control customers crave.

DuraTech’s user interface design solutions

In-mold structural electronics (IMSE): Integrates printed conductive inks with in-mold decorating (IMD); operates with the touch of a finger using capacitive touch sensing.

Membrane switches: An electrical assembly that uses direct contact pressure to activate underlying printed control circuits.

Capacitive touch sensing vs traditional membrane switches

Capacitive touch and membrane switches are two UI design solutions that use fewer materials than traditional control panel technologies. The result is an integrated, compact, cost-effective solution that’s easy and accessible for end users.

Membrane switches are familiar territory for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). However, the rise of capacitive touch sensing presents a cutting-edge solution. If you’re wondering whether it’s time to evolve to capacitive touch, there are compelling benefits to explore.

Materials and assembly

Typically, capacitive touch calls for fewer layers of materials than membrane switches. The result is fewer parts and shorter assembly times, lowering the overall costs of procurement and labor.

Ease of activation

Capacitive touch activates with a touch of a finger, requiring none of the mechanical parts membrane switches require.

Durability

Capacitive touch has no mechanical components, eliminating the cracking, weakening and wearing of the conductive printing. Second-surface printing protects graphic and functional inks.

Cleaning and maintenance

Capacitive touch offers a smooth, continuous surface for ease of cleaning and sterilization, with no crevices for dirt, dust and bacteria to hide.

Accessibility

To take the place of tactile feedback deployed by membrane switches, lighting and audio feedback are options in capacitive touch sensors to assure accessibility and ease of use.

Performance

Both technologies can perform well in moist environments (though membrane switches require additional gasketing layers). Both are responsive even when the user is wearing gloves and both are designed to prevent false triggers. For outdoor applications and other harsh environments, however, capacitive touch surfaces better withstand the elements.

Versatility

Capacitive touch sensing offers several options for buttons, sliders, scroll wheels and more.

Making the choice to adopt a different technology is often a complex process for OEMs. The team at DuraTech is here to help you determine which UI design solution is best for your application.

Custom UI design manufacturing capabilities

DuraTech is equipped to create customized UI designs to meet the needs of your industry.

Our expertise on manufacturing advanced components along with our strategic partnerships ensure the quality and performance your product demands. Our focus on acquiring the latest innovations helps you meet evolving market needs.

Our prototype to production capabilities include feasibility project reviews and testing validation for quality control.

UI design applications

• Appliance panels
• Industrial controls
• Patient monitoring devices
• Thermostat controls

UI design industries

• Appliances
• Medical devices
• Industrial OEMs

Materials used in user interface design

• Polycarbonate
• Polyesters
• High performance materials
  • Anti-bacterial
  • Anti-scratch
  • Formable hardcoat
  • Anti-fingerprint

TactoTek®: Unlock the power of our partnership

TactoTek is famous for its innovations and top-quality components in the UI design space, and DuraTech is one of two U.S. companies licensed to use its IMSE® technology.

The benefits of this partnership extend to our customers:

Access

Through DuraTech, you’re on the inside track of innovation. Our license agreement gives us access to TactoTek’s patented processes, engineers, training and expertise. For your trickiest challenges, a solution is always an email or conference call away.

Quality

TactoTek’s stellar reputation for quality ensures safe, reliable controls. Their comprehensive testing protocols for their IMSE parts include films, plastic resins, conductive inks and more, to evaluate their safety and performance.

Innovation

TactoTek is continuously releasing new technologies, equipping them to meet the evolving needs of your market.

Why choose DuraTech over other suppliers?

At DuraTech, we’re quality focused but built for efficiency. That’s why we designed our processes to meet the demands of your production timelines.

Quick turnaround

Our goal is to cater to the time-sensitive needs of your engineers and product designers.

Supply chain safety net

To safeguard against disruptions, our China Plus One manufacturing strategy leverages U.S.-based and near-shore suppliers and expertise.