The Dead Front Effect (DFE) is a new highly opaque optical cover glass for front panel designs. For equipment and systems using high brightness TFT display modules with graphical user interfaces, implementing a Dead Front Effect enables a clean, uncluttered, front panel to be easily created.
When integrated on to the top surface of a TFT display module, a Dead Front Effect design 
configuration creates a completely dark, black appearance enabling a sleek, high-end aesthetic to be achieved. The ‘off’ state TFT display is effectively completely hidden from view underneath an opaque cover glass. When the TFT display is switched to its ‘on’ state the display image can be clearly seen and the viewing of information, graphics, text, or images is unrestricted.
Josh Marcus, sales manager, RDS said, “For system designs and applications that demand a slick, contemporary appearance, a Dead Front Effect design implementation provides an ideal solution. The best results are achieved when the DFE cover glass is optically bonded to the TFT display module. This technique enhances optical performance and increases the overall ruggedness and integrity of the front panel.”
Dead Front Effect cover glass can also feature integrated Projected Capacitive (PCap) touchscreen functionality, chemical strengthening, and anti-glare, anti-reflection, or anti-scratch coatings. Additionally, screen printed graphics and icons, menu buttons, corporate branding and logos can be easily added.
Different manufacturing techniques can be used to change the transmissivity of the Dead Front Effect cover glass to allow the level of opacity to be varied.
Further benefits include the ease of cleaning of the front surface of the DFE cover glass which can be wiped clean with a damp cloth, or for medical devices applications, sterilized with appropriate cleaning solutions.
Review Display Systems can provide fully integrated display solutions incorporating Dead Front Effect designs and access to an extensive portfolio of industry-leading high performance TFT display modules. Fully customized, bespoke Dead Front Effect designs can be undertaken.
Review Display Systems Inc., Suite 321, 790 N Milwaukee St., Milwaukee, WI 53202, www.review-displays.com
