Making Waterproof LCDs
From stores to amusement parks, LCDs are in use just about everywhere. The one drawback is that LCDs are not inherently waterproof.
Depending on the application of your product, this can result in the need to replace LCDs regularly. Luckily, there are a few potential solutions to this vulnerability. LCDs can easily be made watertight and the methods to accomplish this are more common than you might think.
Hospitals, restaurants, outdoor venues, and many other places use waterproof screens or casings to protect them from damage. There are several reasons to consider waterproofing your product’s LCD
HOW WATERPROOFING CAN HELP
Initially, it may seem unnecessary to use a waterproof LCD, but there are more benefits to having that added protection than you may realize. Waterproofing can also help prevent other contaminants from harming your LCD.
Rain and Accidental Spray Down:
Weather is unavoidable. If you have an LCD in an outdoor location, you should keep in mind that it can get wet from rain or even a hose while performing routine cleaning.
Dust or Small Particles:
It may seem like dust is silly to worry about, but it can get into your LCD and reduce the lifespan by damaging the internal components.
Physical Damage:
LCDs can be protected from physical damage as well if they are correctly protected. For example, a weatherproof enclosure will add an extra level of damage protection from objects that may otherwise destroy the screen, such as rocks and tree limbs.
WATERPROOF ENCLOSURES
Adding waterproof enclosures to existing or new LCDs is one of the best ways to increase protection. These enclosures will seal and safeguard your LCD screen from dirt and liquids up to the specified IP rating allowance. Enclosures also provide UV protection and damage protection for your LCDs.
OCA BONDING
OCA bonding is a method of sealing devices that can also offer protection, just like waterproof casings. OCA bonding is the process of adding a layer between the cover glass and the LCD to seal the assembly together.
The benefit of OCA bonding is that it is very thin and completely transparent, making it ideal for smaller LCDs in outdoor settings due to the lack of sunlight reflection. OCA bonding can also protect devices from UV rays and physical damage.
IP RATING IS IMPORTANT
One thing to keep in mind when choosing an enclosure is the IP rating. IP rating, or Ingress Protection, is a number that indicates the level of protection from solids and liquids. The first number represents the protection from solids. This number will range from 0 to 6, with 6 meaning no solids or dust can penetrate the object.
The second number indicates the amount of protection from liquids. This number will range from 0 to 8, 8 meaning the object can be safely submerged beyond 1m of water depth.
This number is significant to consider when making sure your LCD is waterproof. It is best to get the highest allowable rating for the device you need to waterproof. It is always better to have more protection than not enough.
CONCLUSION
With LCDs everywhere you turn, it is essential to ensure these devices are protected from water damage. Waterproof enclosures and OCA are both tools that you can use to keep your LCD screen safe from water damage and other harm. Consider adding these to your product’s assembly for a boost in durability
References:
1. https://www.dsmt.com/resources/ip-rating-chart/