Cutting key, display and LED windows against the approved print reference
Membrane switch and graphic panel cutting dies
Layers in a membrane switch or graphic panel may share an outer profile while performing different cutting tasks. The graphic overlay carries key and display windows, the adhesive spacer contains circuit cavities, and the release liner may need full or controlled cuts. Steel-rule geometry built in a CNC laser-cut die board converts approved artwork and layer drawings into a production reference.
Which layers can receive a cutting die?
Sheet-fed graphic overlays, adhesive spacers and release liners may require different cutting depths or separate die geometries. Every layer is assessed on its own cutting drawing; sharing an outer profile does not mean all internal windows are identical.
- Graphic-panel outer profile
- Key, display and LED windows
- Adhesive-spacer cavities
- Release-liner and assembly references
How are print and cut geometry aligned?
Approved artwork and the cutting layer are compared at 1:1 scale. Defined registration references are used instead of estimating from a visual centre, icon or text. On multi-up sheets, part orientation, print register and assembly direction remain in the same data set.
- Separate artwork and cutting layers
- Key centre against window geometry
- Display and LED opening coordinates
- Sheet direction and assembly reference
What is in scope and what is needed for a quote?
This service manufactures cutting dies for graphic overlays, spacers and liners. It does not include electronic circuit design, screen printing, metal-dome assembly or panel embossing. Full cutting or controlled cutting against a carrier is assessed only after the layer stack and actual material sample are available.
- Approved artwork and a separate cutting drawing
- Material name and thickness for every layer
- Printed panel, adhesive and liner samples
- Expected full cut or retention on a carrier
Frequently asked questions
1Can the cutting line be taken from the artwork?
Artwork is a reference, but the key, display, LED and outer profiles must be approved as a separate technical cutting layer.
2Can every layer be cut with one die?
Not always. Internal openings and cutting depth can differ, so overlay, spacer and liner layers are assessed separately.
3Do you also make the electronics or print the panel?
No. The scope is flat-bed steel-rule cutting-die production for the layers; circuit design, printing and assembly are out of scope.