Membrane Switch keys are subjected to repeated actuations, usually by a human finger. They are also subjected to other conditions (for example, wiping, cleaning, rubbing) during handling, end-use, shipment, or storage that may cause abrasion damage. The result may be a significant removal of the coatings, text or decorative inks.This test method is applicable to a wide range of materials. The main criterion is that the abrasion process produces visible wear or breakthrough in the surface being tested.The amount of abrasion damage to a surface is dependent on numerous variables. This test method provides a way of comparing relative abrasion resistance of inks and coatings. In no way do the results provide a correlation value of the number of human finger touches before coating failure. It only provides a means to compare results of tests performed using the same equipment, abrasive materials and loading conditions.The test method can be used for quality control purposes, as a research and development tool, to evaluate material combinations for a given application, or for the comparison of materials with relatively similar properties.1.1 This test method describes the procedure for subjecting inks or coatings on membrane switches to an abrasive medium at a specified force.1.2 Within certain limitations, as described in this document, this test method is applicable for materials including, but not limited to: printed or coated polyester, polycarbonate, and silicone rubber. The samples can be either flat or contoured.1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.1 This terminology defines terms that are commonly used in the membrane switch industry.1.2 These definitions are not mutually exclusive.1.3 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
3.1 This practice is designed to enable all manufacturers and users of membrane switches to perform visual inspections under uniform conditions. The aim is to eliminate key variables in the inspection procedures so specimens can be viewed more objectively.3.2 Viewing specimens under these conditions could reveal cosmetic defects in the specimen. Many of these defects or flaws are due to variables in the raw materials or the manufacturing process. These cosmetic flaws or defects do not necessarily mean that the specimen is defective. The determination of whether a specimen is acceptable or defective varies with the application and the needs of the user. Therefore, customer and vendor must agree on acceptable quality standards prior to manufacturing.3.3 This practice does not establish standards for acceptability of specimens, only how they must be viewed (inspected).3.4 This practice is not intended to be used for color matching purposes. Color matching must be performed under more precise lighting conditions outside the scope of this practice.1.1 This practice covers procedures for performing visual inspection of membrane switches. This includes visual inspection of overlays and circuitry.1.2 This practice defines lighting parameters, distance from eye to specimen, viewing angle, and the viewing time allowed for a specific size specimen.1.3 This practice is only designed for visual inspection of aesthetic qualities of membrane switches. It is not intended for color matching or gloss measurement.1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.