When Foster Refrigeration was in the final stages of producing its brand new range of EcoPro G2 cabinets, it turned to Diametric, specialist in high quality industrial badges, nameplates and labels to provide the finishing touch – the membrane switch assemblies carrying its brand name.
The EcoPro G2 range was focused on reducing carbon emissions, being cost effective and of the highest quality, right from design and manufacture through to recycling.
With this in mind, Diametric was tasked with creating new membrane switch assemblies, along with revamped logo labels, to be used as control units for each of the range’s six products. Foster Refrigerator provided Diametric with the ‘look’ it required for the products and it was down to Diametric to achieve the appearance, along with functionality and durability, in the most cost-effective way.
The controller system on the G2 range features a ‘smartphone style’ touch sensitive, hidden-until-lit control panel, it keeps the screen flat and free of visual clutter, combining sophistication and functionality.
This meant Diametric’s design of the switch layers on the circuit had to follow the outline of the shape, allowing people to view the icons behind the membrane. In addition, Foster Refrigerator wanted to make the temperature display easy to read even from a distance so Diametric’s solution had to complement this and the high visibility bright white PMV (Passive Matrix Vertical Alignment).
Diametric recommended an injection moulded ‘carrier tray’ to support and strengthen the membrane, complete with adhesive to the rear. This would ensure the end product delivered the perfect look and feel while retaining the full functionality of the switches and impeccable viewability of the display window.
The injection moulded carrier was created by injecting pressurised ABS thermoplastic into a female form tool, creating the badge’s 3D shape and texture. A recess was required in order for the overlay to drop into it perfectly. Location spigots were incorporated into the design, making the carrier more durable and easier to apply to the refrigerator units with ultimate precision every time.
One of the key factors in the carrier’s design was the rugged environment in which it would be. A selective lacquer was applied to ensure durability and make the membrane surface mark resistant. In addition, an injection moulded plinth added protection to the overlay and the edged border ensured the overlay underneath would remain safe and dry.
Diametric
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