Dead Front Panels: Expectations vs. Reality

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One of the least commonly used graphical overlay components is the front panel. A fully customizable and versatile user interface solution that can print dead panels to accommodate almost any type of design supported by backlighting, embossing, or other customizable features.

 

Dead panels have long been the ideal choice for cost-effective and clean user interface design. Unprecedented displays are commonly used in vehicle indicators and control panels, device and dashboard indicator panels, and other types of touch-sensitive keyboards, and can be customized to fit almost any product or industrial application.

 

However, when using front panels, the product designer should take care to ensure that they are implemented correctly. Depending on the substrate, color control and surface treatment, the application of dead front panels can vary greatly.

 

How does the substrate material affect the dead front panel?

 

Polycarbonate and polyester are the two most common base materials for plain panels. These materials are extremely durable and customizable to create user interfaces that can withstand extreme conditions or adapt to different lighting conditions. Polycarbonate and polyester substrates can be manufactured to treat water, extreme temperatures, debris and other conditions that may affect product reliability. In some cases, the mixed substrate can provide the best aspects of polycarbonate and polyester to achieve a high degree of customizability and durability. To provide the best user experience, choosing the right base material (polycarbonate, polyester, or blended fiber) is critical.

 

How does the dead front panel react to different lighting conditions?

 

Polycarbonate substrates may include lighting patterns as part of the design, making certain graphic elements possible only when a light source is applied. This can be applied to graphics that light up only when the device is turned on, as well as other indicators behind static graphics that change as necessary.

 

The dashboard is a common application of the front panel. For example, a backlit speedometer can remain visible during the day without power, but can still be illuminated in dark when powered on. Depending on the particular application, the graphics may also remain hidden during use, such as an indicator of a problem such as checking the engine light.

 

When designing a dead front panel to accommodate different lighting conditions, it is important to understand what the specific controls will be operating under certain conditions. Although digital printing technology can provide almost any color or design required, no-panel design should take into account how the interface is viewed in natural light or lighting and how the device will look in each case.

 

How does custom finishes affect the design of dead front panels?

 

Depending on the application, custom coatings can change the front panel's visibility, feel and response speed. A matte or polished finish can change the overall look and feel of the panel, while a polished design may reduce visibility under certain lighting conditions. In addition, proper surface treatment of usable and dead front panels is essential, as the lack of proper surface treatment may result in equipment being easily soiled or scratched. Whether it's to maintain a sense of comfort or to withstand certain environmental conditions, proper surface treatment can help ensure that the product remains functional and convenient.

 

Select a reliable panel - free manufacturing partner

 

Whatever the application of the front panel, designing the perfect solution requires care and expertise. Careful attention to detail is required to select the correct substrate, understand how the equipment reacts under different light conditions, and apply the correct coating to the product.

 

JRPanel has provided full-service industrial design solutions to brands throughout the world.  Whether it’s a custom membrane switch, graphic overlay, or complex user interface, the experts at JRPanel are ready to solve design dilemmas of any size. For a free design and development consultation, contact us today!