White PaperDesign
Smartdisplay™ Switches From NKK Switches Bring New Capabilities to Applications Where a Tactile Feel is Just as Important as a Visual Display of Information
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When it comes to human-machine interface (HMI) solutions, sometimes the smallest things have the biggest impact. A case in point are SmartDisplay™ intelligent switches from NKK Switches that are used to control and display multiple functions of a system or a machine leading to higher levels of performance, flexibility, space-savings, and cost-effectiveness.
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Overview
The white paper discusses the innovative SmartDisplay™ technology from NKK Switches, which integrates electromechanical switches with programmable LCD or OLED displays to enhance human-machine interface (HMI) solutions. This technology is particularly beneficial in applications where tactile feedback and visual information are crucial, offering a superior alternative to traditional pushbuttons and touchscreens.
SmartDisplay modules are designed to provide a tactile feel, allowing users to confidently know when a signal has been switched. They are available in various formats, including monochrome and full-color OLED displays, with resolutions ranging from 36 RGB x 24 pixels to 96 RGB x 64 pixels. The devices are compact, with a low-power consumption profile, and can survive over a million actuations, making them suitable for demanding environments.
The paper highlights the versatility of SmartDisplay technology, which can interface with various serial communication architectures such as USB, Ethernet, RS-232, and RS-485. Additionally, the modules are dust-tight and can achieve an IP67 ingress protection rating when equipped with a polyurethane splash-proof overlay, making them ideal for wet environments.
In maritime communications, the SmartDisplay technology plays a significant role in improving mission responsiveness for naval personnel. The integration of SmartDisplay modules into the L3 KITE voice terminal, part of the MarCom® integrated communications system, allows sailors to access all available communication services on a vessel through a single terminal. This system simplifies the traditionally complex array of communication devices, enhancing situational awareness and enabling quicker, more effective responses.
The paper also emphasizes the ease of installation and maintenance of SmartDisplay modules, as individual buttons can be quickly replaced if damaged. The technology's design allows for future upgrades without necessitating changes to the terminals, thereby minimizing overall costs and user training requirements.
Overall, the white paper presents SmartDisplay technology as a cutting-edge solution for various applications, including aerospace, defense, medical devices, and maritime communications, showcasing its reliability, flexibility, and performance in enhancing user interaction with complex systems.