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What are graphic overlays?

Graphic overlays are thin, durable graphic surfaces that function as the top layer of a product – they’re usually placed on electronics. They serve multiple purposes, including:

·         Protecting sensitive internal electronics from wear and tear

·         Offering users intuitive guidance on how to operate a device

·         Displaying information when necessary – and hiding information when it would be confusing (dead fronting)

·         Creating branding opportunities

·         Creating a more aesthetically pleasing final product

Applications for graphic overlays

User interface/membrane switch overlay

Graphic overlays are often used to offer guidance to end-users. They can be placed as a graphical top layer for panels containing mechanical switches like buttons and levers. 

The overlays can also act as both the guide and the interface – in these circumstances, we would refer to the graphic overlay as a “membrane switch overlay”. These overlays are printed circuits that, when pressed or touched, open or close circuits to trigger functions in electronic devices. 

Brand awareness

Graphic overlays double as a marketing tool, improving brand awareness and creating space for logos on the front-facing panel of a device. Overlays come in a wide variety of colors and finishes, and all kinds of different graphics can be printed onto them. Screen printed graphics use U.V. inks, Pantone® colors, or metallic inks. We can accurately match color values, densities, and gloss levels, providing exceptional product color match and production consistency.

Durability

Our overlays are printed on the backside (subsurface) of a clear material like polycarbonate or polyester. These materials are durable and adhere to the final product using various high-quality adhesives. Using a variety of materials from flame-retardant, anti-microbial and even ESD finishes for an explosion proof environment we can meet the needs of your industry. They all help protect sensitive electronics from dust, wear and tear, harsh chemicals, and more. 

Dead fronting

Dead fronting is the art and science of using different levels of opaqueness to hide visual elements from sight until those visual elements are illuminated. Think about the “check engine” icon in your vehicle – it’s invisible until the LED is illuminated. That’s achieved through the use of dead fronting.