For almost four decades, Barantech’s research, development and engineering teams have pioneered the development of human machine interface (HMI) system technologies. Applying the company’s extensive knowledge and expertise to ever-evolving product requirements, Barantech offers a range of software and hardware technologies that enhance the user experience and drive commercial success. As the first company to introduce commercially viable piezo switching technology, Barantech continues to set the standard for innovation in advanced switching and control solutions that are suitable for the world’s toughest environments, while also offering comprehensive project solutions composed of software and hardware, cloud and communication capabilities that are custom engineered by our talented experts.
HMI Technologies that Keep You at the Forefront of Innovation, Ideal for Today’s Rapidly Changing Markets
Barantech’s Piezo Technology
About the Piezoelectric Effect
Barantech piezoelectric switches and keypads harness the piezoelectric effect – a property exhibited by certain crystals that generate voltage when subjected to pressure, without requiring an external power source.
Application of Piezo Technology Explained
Barantech’s unique piezo switches feature VPM (Versatile Piezo Module) – a mechanical structure containing all the necessary switch components, that are press-fit into a solid metal housing. Thus, when pressed, the piezoelectric crystal material produces a corresponding change in voltage, which passes through a conductive connecting material to a circuit board mimicking a dry-contact switch closure. In addition, our unique modular approach eliminates the need for a solder connection to the delicate piezo ceramic and creates a robust 125 msec. minimum switch closure, which is a significant improvement over market standards of just 20 msec.
Piezoelectric switches, keypads and control panels do not require an external source of power and offer very different advantages over capacitive or membrane switches.
Piezo Vs. Other Technologies
| Housing / Fascia Material | Barantech Piezoelectric | Capacitive | Membrane | Electro-Mechanical | Inductive |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aluminum | + | - | - | + | + |
| Stainless Steel | + | - | - | + | + |
| Plastic | + | + | + | + | + |
| Glass | + | + | - | - | + |
| Environmental | Barantech Piezoelectric | Capacitive | Membrane | Electro-Mechanical | Inductive |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rain, Sleet, Snow, Ice, Humidity | + | - | - | Special sealing required | - |
| Submersion | + | - | - | Special sealing required | - |
| IP69K Washdown | + | - | - | Special sealing required | - |
| ESD | + | - | - | + | - |
| RFI/EMI Proof | + | - | - | - | - |
| EMP Resistance | + | - | - | - | - |
| Hazardous Location | + | Possible at very high cost. | Possible with high set-up costs | Possible to find specialized versions | + |
| -40 to +125C | + | - | - | + | - |
| Mechanical | Barantech Piezoelectric | Capacitive | Membrane | Electro-Mechanical | Inductive |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| No moving parts | + | + | - | - | + |
| Completely sealed | + | + | - | Yes – but expensive | - |
| Longevity | 50 Million | 1M | 100K | 10K-1M | 10M |
| Impact/Shock & Vibration Proof | + | + | - | Yes – but expensive | Yes – but expensive |
| Vandal Proof | + | + | - | - | - |
| Design & Ergonomics | Barantech Piezoelectric | Capacitive | Membrane | Electro-Mechanical | Inductive |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Self-Diagnostic | + | - | - | - | - |
| Tactility | + | - | + | + | - |
| Illumination | + | + | + | + | + |
| Haptic | + | Complicated since capacitive field can be interrupted by haptic response. | Can dramatically increase the cost of an otherwise inexpensive keypad | Yes – but expensive | - |
| Audible Feedback | + | - | + | + | - |
| Customization | + | Yes – but expensive | Yes – but expensive | Yes – but expensive | Yes – but expensive |
| Gloved Hand Operation | + | - | + | + | + |
| Functionality | Barantech Piezoelectric | Capacitive | Membrane | Electro-Mechanical | Inductive |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Power Consumption | Zero | Constant | Minimal | Minimal | Constant |
| High Voltage | Up to 277V 30A | - | - | + | - |
| Toggle (on/off) | + | + | - | + | - |
| Prolonged | + | - | - | + | - |
| Data Switches | + | - | - | - | - |
| Keypads & Panels | Barantech Piezoelectric | Capacitive | Membrane | Electro-Mechanical | Inductive |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ability to integrate | + | + | + | - | Yes – but expensive |
| ASCII | + | + | + | - | + |
| USB | + | + | + | - | - |
| SPI | + | + | + | - | - |
| I²C | + | + | + | - | - |
| CAN Bus | + | + | + | - | - |
| Matrix | + | + | + | - | - |
| Connectivity | + | Yes – but expensive | Yes – but expensive | - | Yes – but expensive |
| Key Spacing (Center to Center) | 12mm and up | 19mm | 8mm and up | 30mm typical | 19mm |
| Panel Thickness | 9-13mm typical | 1-3mm | 0.3-10mm | - | 0.6mm |
Barantech’s Touch Metal Piezo Switches Feature Unique Encapsulation Technology Based on the Exclusive VPM Module
Smart Functionality that Gives Users Greater Control
Barantech’s HMI systems and control solutions feature built-in software and proprietary algorithms that expand operability and user functionality. Our smart technologies support a range of functions beyond a simple momentary switch closure – prolonged, toggle, continuous, programmable and slide switch functions. They also provide self-diagnostic reporting capability and switching of line voltages, putting more control in your hands and those of your users.
Software Highlights
- Full logic within piezo module, no need for external components
- Real-time compensation for temperature & frequency interferences
- Self-diagnostic and self-testing capabilities
- Full control over touch sensitivity
- Extremely accurate control over touch areas
Built to last – Barantech’s Touch Metal Piezo Switches can be Activated Millions of Times More than Non-Piezo Switches
IoT Ready Technologies for Connected Experiences
Connected devices enable new interfaces with our living and working environments. By providing a full range of connectivity solutions, from Bluetooth to WiFi, Barantech IoT-enabled switches offer a future of connecting anything, anywhere and anytime – while supporting a new level of data-driven user interactions.
Built-In Connectivity Technologies
- Connect to cloud location, store information as well as usage, power consumption data, etc.
- Connect and integrate with any smart building automation system and/or smart home automation system
- Remote or central control from any location
- Remote monitoring of switch activation (on / off)
- Each switch acts as an independent node and can connect to another device and transmit a signal on a Bluetooth or Wi-Fi network
Touch-Free Infrared Technology
Barantech’s proprietary infrared technology offers cutting edge, hygienic touchless switching solutions. This IR technology, that offers a motion-activated solution that detects a finger or a hand at a distance of approximately 5 cm, is combined with the benefits and functionality of a fully programmable, customizable and easy-to-retrofit switch. This solution is particularly suited for high traffic applications, and those where hygiene is vital. It enables non-touch actuation for a wide variety of devices used in different public and commercial environments – from public transport through healthcare institutions to retail stores, and more.