Panasonic Industry's tactile switches, also known as Light Touch Switches, are crucial components in modern vehicles. These switches offer a "reliable click" sensation, enhancing the user experience. This article focuses on the role and product information of tactile switches in Automotive applications.
This article contains useful information for engineers involved in user interface design around switches. If you're looking to gain terminology and basic information about tactile switches, this article is for you.
(This article can be read in approximately 5 minutes.)
Table of Contents
What is a Tactile Switch (Light Touch Switch)?
Light Touch Switches in Automotive Applications
3. Use in RKE（Remote Key-less Entry）
Panasonic's Light Touch Switches: Addressing Automotive Demands
User Feedback on Light Touch Switches
Want to Know More About Light Touch Switches?
・What is a Tactile Switch (Light Touch Switch)?
A tactile switch is a momentary micro-current switch that turns ON only when pushed, and is characterized by providing tactile feedback (a "click" sensation) upon pushing. They are used as input switches for operating signals in various electronic devices.
The name Light Touch Switch is Panasonic's unique product name, which is generally called a tactile switch or push momentary switch.
Reference Articles
Have You Pressed It Too? Panasonic's Tactile Switches (Light Touch Switches)
・Light Touch Switches in Automotive Applications
Tactile switches are used throughout a vehicle for operational input, both inside and outside the cabin.
Let's take a look at where Light Touch Switches are used in Automotive applications.
1. Steering Wheel Switches
Tactile switches are integrated into steering wheel controls. Panasonic offers customization for travel and click sound to ensure reliable operation. Switches installed in steering wheel controls may require miniaturization and thin profiles to accommodate flat designs.
2. HVAC Control Switches
HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems, along with navigation and car audio controls, utilize Light Touch Switches . These switches can be designed with custom tactile feedback and operating sounds to match specific vehicle models.
3. Use in RKE（Remote Key-less Entry）
Even outside the car, Light Touch Switches are employed in RKE systems for functions like door locking. The key feature is the clear click sensation that confirms successful operation.
・Panasonic's Light Touch Switches: Addressing Automotive Demands
When incorporating tactile switches (Light Touch Switches) into Automotive applications, the following challenges and requirements may arise:
・Desire for a distinct click sensation and audible click sound
・Difficulty fitting the switch board into limited space and height constraints
・Need to illuminate the switch operating part to improve visibility
Can Light Touch Switches solve these challenges?
Panasonic Industry's extensive lineup and customization options for Light Touch Switches can overcome these challenges.
Panasonic's Light Touch Switches deliver appropriate travel and click sound for automotive use.
The standard 6mm Square Middle Travel 2 terminal SMD switches commonly used in automotive applications are available in various travels, operating forces, and quiet types.
Panasonic's simulation technology and design expertise enable customized solutions that reduce operational sounds and enhance premium feel, making them adopted by major car manufacturers in Japan and Europe. For requests regarding specifications outside our lineup, please feel free to contact us.
We also offer smaller, thinner types than the 6mm square size, as well as long-stroke types.
For locations with restrictions on mounting area or height, such as steering switches, you can choose our compact 3.5mm × 2.9mm SMD switch with a height of 1.7mm.
Additionally, our lineup includes a center space type with a hole in the switch center for LED mounting.
This type allows illumination of the set knob through the switch's center hole. The side walls of the center hole suppress light dispersion, enabling stable illumination of the switch operation area.
Side-push type switches are also available, some with enhanced bonding strength to the PCB after mounting, commonly used for side operation in RKE systems.
Engineers can utilize Panasonic's specification search to find suitable switches based on factors like module size and operating force.
⇒ Tactile Switches (Light Touch Switches) Search by Specifications
・User Feedback on Light Touch Switches
Here are some comments from users who utilize Light Touch Switches in their automotive devices:
"They achieve miniaturization and thinning of products, offering a reliable switch with a crisp operating feel and durability."
"In addition to high technology, they have prompt technical support and a stable supply system, and with two-site production considering risk management, they are a trustworthy partner."
"Support services, such as proposing the optimal switch for the customer's application, are extensive."
・Want to Know More About Light Touch Switches?
Have you understood how Panasonic Industry's Light Touch Switches are playing an active role in automotive devices?
We hope this article has deepened your understanding of Light Touch Switches, even if just a little.
If you want to learn more about Light Touch Switches or see application examples, please check out our selection guide and e-book!
