Where embossed graphic overlays excel

What are embossed control panel overlays?

Control panel overlays are graphic overlays, usually made from plastic or metal, that act as a layer on control panels, guiding the user with functional information and instructions. They are designed to display information such as button function, instrument instructions and status indicators, enhancing ease of usability and providing a durable layer to any underlying mechanical and electrical components.

Control panel overlays can be customised to include cut-outs for switches, clear panels for LED displays and embossed areas to accommodate underlying buttons. Control panel overlays can be as decorative or functional as needed, including company branding and logos to enhance aesthetics, or adopting a clear and simple interface to aid usability.

Advantages of embossed graphic overlays

If you want to improve both the look and functionality of your control panel overlay, embossing is a great option. Advantages of embossed graphic overlays include:

• An improved user experience – Embossing makes it easier for the end user to operate the control panel and helps reduce accidental presses of a button

• Better aesthetics and branding – An embossed graphic overlay looks more professional and stands out from generic control panel overlays

• • Improved accessibility – Tactile responses such as braille can be added to help blind and visually-impaired users operate the control panel

• Added tactile feedback – Embossed buttons provide a tactile response to the user when pressed, improving usability

Materials and finishes for embossed graphic overlays

Embossed graphic overlays can be created in a variety of different materials, with several finishes available. The most commonly found embossed graphic overlays are:

• Aluminium – A lightweight metal that can be cut to custom shapes and sizes. Can also be anodised to make it more durable

• Steel – A hardwearing, easy to clean and sterilise material that is ideal for medical equipment

• Acrylic – A versatile, lightweight and flexible material that can be cut to any size.

• Anti-glare – Ideal for displays that are susceptible to glare, this finish makes it easier for users to read information displayed on a panel

• Textured – A matte effect finish that provides a professional look. Not suitable for medical applications, however, as the surface is harder to sterilise

• Gloss – A shiny finish that easily wipes clean. Ideal for applications that require an easy to clean and sterile surface 

• Brushed – This finish creates a dull, textured surface on the metal, making it more tactile and aesthetically pleasing

Types of embossed control panels

You’ll find a plethora of different styles of control panels, including various types of embossing. The most popular embossing shapes include:

• Rim embossing – Also known as raised borders, this type of embossing raises the edges of the buttons for easier usability 

• Pillow embossing –  A gentle, raised area that is less pronounced than a dome embossed button. It acts as a subtle tactile indicator

• Dome embossing – This creates a rounded, bubble-like raised area on the switch surface, making it easier to find and pleasing to press

• Custom-shaped embossing – Custom shapes can be embossed into the control panel overlay to cater for more unusually shaped switches and panels

Top areas where embossed graphic overlays excel

There are many industries and sectors that benefit from embossed graphic overlays for equipment control panels. Top areas include:

Electronics and assembly

Electronics manufacturers and assembly plants benefit from the enhanced usability of complex machinery through well-designed embossed graphic overlays. 

Medical devices

Embossed graphic overlays allow the control panels of medical devices to be fully sealed, making it easier to clean and sterilise them to clinical standards.

Instrumentation

Providing durable and visible graphics on instrumentation panels helps users operate machinery safely and with confidence. An embossed graphic overlay guides the user around the control panel in an intuitive and effective way.

Marine  

For offshore equipment that operates in harsh environments, fully enclosing electronic components is a must. An embossed graphic overlay helps users operate a control panel in these extreme conditions without exposing any inner workings to the elements.

If you need a high-quality, user-friendly embossed graphic overlay for your next project, speak to one of our experts today.

Talk to us about embossed graphic overlays