What is Piezo?

What makes piezo panels, switches and touchscreens different?

Our objective is to create very durable and completely waterproof systems, whereby activation occurs by lightly touching (rather than pushing) the device cover; a system which can also be applied without restricting design.

Due to a smooth surface evidenced by the absence of push-buttons or seams, this system can also be made more hygienic through the use of a bacteria- and virus-killing coating.

d-Switch is the world leader in this technology, a position which has been built up over many years of experience.

The Benefits of Piezo

What are the benefits of piezo?

There are many benefits that you can take advantage of by using piezo chips.

Piezo applications are:

• Durable - Piezo can be used more than 50 million times…and will still be going strong.
• Waterproof - For indoor and outdoor applications like trucks, trams ATM machines, bath and shower, a smooth surface is ideal for keeping the water and weather out.
• Vandal-proof - With no moving parts, piezo designs are almost impossible to break into.
• Easy to clean - A smooth surface allows you to wipe away dirt, and prevents dirt and bacteria from getting stuck in the cracks. There are no cracks!
• Smooth construction - There are no moving parts on the surface. As we say, 'What isn't there can't fail'. This also allows for smooth design.
• Hygienic - An anti-microbial coating is available and ideal for use in public places and hospitals.

Piezo was made for people!

History of Piezo

Who discovered the piezo effect?

A student of Christiaan Huygens (inventor of the pendulum clock) is credited with discovering the 'piezo effect'.

You see, piezo technology always had Dutch roots.

Who developed piezo?

In 1880, the Curie brothers compressed crystals to create positive and negative charges on certain parts of surfaces. The charges were proportional to the pressure applied, and disappeared when the pressure was removed.

Who perfected piezo?

In 1985, d-Switch began to evolve and perfect the use of piezo electricity to produce a response to the human touch.

Piezo was discovered by (and for) people! (but you already knew that)

Anti-microbial Surface

What is an anti-microbial surface?

This is a coating based on silver ions that can be applied to the surface (above the piezo technology). It kills many viruses and bacteria, amongst them SARS and probably Avian influenza.

Why is this uniquely available with piezo technology?

Because piezo allows for a smooth surface, the surface can be coated with a thin film. In addition, there are no gaps or buttons that would allow viruses and bacteria to 'break in'.

Who provides the anti-microbial surface?

d-Switch works with Agion - who can provide you with more information.