Products

Graphic Overlays - Embossing

OVERVIEW:
Embossing is a process achieved by forming and/or deforming of the graphic overlay. Special tools are designed and manufactured to recreate a pattern on a raw material surface. The presence of embossing on a graphic overlay and/or membrane circuit can be either aesthetic or functional.

  • Enhances aesthetics through the use of embossed text, logos and other graphic elements
  • Improves tactile recognition by either perimeter or pillow embossing of the keys
  • Allows mechanical clearance for certain keypad components, i.e. LEDs, resistors, etc.
  • Allows for the incorporation of Braille symbols

TYPES OF EMBOSSING: There are three main types of embossing used by GGI International. These types of embossing can all be present on one common part.

  • Rim embossing: embossing only the key border. The rim embossing will typically be defined by a graphic line different in color from the background of the keypad and will be raised above the surface
    • In general, the thickness of the rim emboss is a minimum of 0.045"
    • The height of the embossing varies from 0.010" to 0.020" depending on the type of material selected for the graphic overlay
    • The distance between the edge of two rim embossed keys should be a minimum of 0.100"
    • The distance between the edge of a rim embossed key and a cut-out should be a minimum of 0.075"
    • A minimum radius of 0.015" is applicable for a form having right angles

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  • Pillow Embossing: embossing of an entire area. The pillow embossed area is typically present over a key, an LED window. or other surface mount components.
    • Surface embossing having a diameter greater than 0.100"
    • The height of the embossing will vary from 0.010" to 0.020" depending on the type of material chosen for the graphic overlay
    • The distance between the edge of two pillow embossed areas must be at least 0.100"
    • The distance between the edge of an embossed area and a cut-out must be a minimum of 0.075"
    • A minimum radius of 0.015" is applicable for a form having right angles
  • Dimple Embossing: embossing of a small-diameter circle. Used for creating Braille text and for enhancing the tactile recognition of a key.
    • Typical diameter of embossing = 0.080"
    • Height of the embossing can vary from 0.010" to 0.015", depending on the type of material chosen for the graphic overlay.
    • The distance between a dimple emboss and a cut-out must be a minimum of 0.075"

VARIOUS EMBOSSINGS: In addition to the three standard types of embossing, GGI International also offers a wide range of various embossing options.

  • Dome/Polydome: used for switches or LEDs
  • Varying embossing heights on the same surface
  • Combination of several types of embossing on a single key
  • Negative embossing or "debossing"

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Overview  |  Graphic Materials  |  Graphic Considerations  |  Color System  |  Graphic Window  |  Surface Textures  |  Embossing  |  Insertable Legend  |  Antimicrobial Polyester (Autotex AM)