Alps Alpine has worked tirelessly to perfect its expertise in mechanical design, and the fruit of those efforts is reflected in our TACT Switch™ products. These switches, with compact dimensions of just 2.6 × 1.6 mm, incorporate technology and technical know-how that allow for flexible creation of the actuation feel.
What is a TACT Switch™?
A TACT Switch™ is a push-button switch that provides a distinctive tactile feedback (click sensation) when pressed. As a human-machine interface for consumer electronics, automotive systems, industrial electrical equipment, and other products, it has many different applications. Production of TACT Switch™ began in 1976. Initially used in household appliances and audiovisual equipment, their use spread due to the recognition of their ease of use and convenience, and they are now found in products such as automobiles and smartphones. To date, more than 155 billion units have been manufactured. Alps Alpine produces around 5 billion units per year, which is approximately 160 per second.
Although switches consist of only three to seven basic parts, Alps Alpine has devised all sorts of ways to improve performance and quality, establishing a diverse product range. In addition to models with compact and slim designs, in recent years we have developed products that meet IP67/68* dust and water resistance standards, as required by products such as smartphones and wearable electronics.
Internal structure and feel
TACT Switch™ products with a metal dome provide a crisp, tactile click, while those with a rubber dome offer a soft, tactile click. The actuation force required (pulse force) and travel distance of a TACT Switch™ depend on its installation location and intended use. Although the structure is very simple—the circuit closes when a metal contact moves vertically to touch a fixed contact—the resulting feel varies depending on the specific shape and material combination of the components. Beyond the functional value of transmitting a signal, such as "on" or "off,"
To offer the desired sensation
The Alps Alpine TACT Switch™ range offers a vast array of over 1,000 different types, allowing customers to select a model with the specifications that best suit their needs. If a customer is looking for a new type of actuation feel that isn't yet available, we can design a new model based on their desired characteristics (tactile feel and sound), lifespan (durability), and size. The most important elements—the characteristics—can be represented on an FS curve. With load (force) on the vertical axis and travel (stroke) on the horizontal axis, it's possible to check the parameters that determine a switch's feel, such as actuation force, return force, and click ratio. We then employ material processing technology, precision machining of molds and dies, simulation technology, and rigorous testing with feel measurement instruments and other equipment to actually create the desired actuation feel. With such an overwhelming range of products and the design and development capabilities to bring a specific feel to life, we offer customers the most suitable products for their needs. A database of technical knowledge
Visualizing the feel: FS curves provide significant benefits not only to the customers we work with directly, but also to switch development as a whole. Alps Alpine has been building a database of technical design and development knowledge based on FS curves for around 20 years. Previously, experienced designers followed a trial-and-error approach involving prototyping based on rules of thumb. Since then, it has been possible to carry out design using quantitative and logical methods, leading to dramatic improvements in the accuracy and quality of feel creation. By compiling a database of knowledge and experience stored in the minds of designers, it is possible, after advanced analysis, to simulate models on a computer before manufacturing a prototype. This not only improves the quality of the final prototype, but also reduces the time and money invested in the work and allows us to offer a seamless and meticulous customer service.
Feel when pressing and brand image
The demand for tactile feedback in HMI devices has grown in recent years, and features like touch and sound are once again being considered a way to differentiate a brand. Humans are able to perceive subtle differences in sensation with their fingertips, and when pressing a switch, they experience feelings such as pleasure, smoothness, satisfaction, luxury, and tranquility. In addition to building technical expertise in creating tactile sensations, Alps Alpine collaborates with universities to apply an engineering approach to research and conduct demonstration tests.
TACT Switch™ products are touched and handled by people as devices that appeal to their senses. As such, the sensation they feel when pressed can sometimes influence the image of a product or company. Alps Alpine will continue to work on product development to generate the sensations customers desire and maintain brand image. Efforts in creating tactile sensations, along with tireless efforts to improve durability and reliability, have resulted in a powerful range of TACT Switch™ products.
