HMI
Agro & Heavy-duty machinery
Case

Engineering a control panel for agricultural machinery

Development and production of a silicone rubber keypad for Amazone-Werke's terminals for operating agricultural machinery. A solution that withstands demanding environmental factors and differentiates Amazone-Werke's product in the industry .

Silicone rubber keypad with raised keys and good tactility for outdoor machinery

How to create a user interface that sets your product apart in the industry? One that is functional and aesthetically appealing at the same time?

Amazonen-Werke is among the leading manufacturers of agricultural equipment in Germany. For their next generation of machine terminals, they aimed to produce a robust keypad with differentiating features. How did we approach the task?

We listened to Amazonen-Werke's requirements and ambitions, suggested new perspectives on keypad material and employed our HMI expertise to create a tailored solution.

"We appreciate the consultancy that we have received from Mekoprint. We are happy to have created a solution that differentiates our product in the industry."

R&D Representative

Amazonen-Werke

The Challenge: A User Interface That Endures

Operating a terminal in the cab of a harvester or tractor subjects the device to extreme conditions: dust, dirt, sunlight, and vibrations are just the start. Amazonen-Werke's specifications for their new control panel were uncompromising:

UV and temperature resistance
Satisfactory tactile feedback
Visibility under both sunlight and nighttime conditions

Water-resistant silicone rubber keypad - reliable controlling in rugged environments

Our approach: listen, understand, innovate

“Amazonen-Werke had some very clear ideas about what they wanted to achieve. But at the same time, they were open to new perspectives," says Domenic Nielsen, Business Development Manager at Mekoprint. This openness paved the way for a creative consultation process, where our HMI expertise came to the forefront.

Instead of the initially envisioned membrane switch, we proposed a silicone rubber keypad. This recommendation was not arbitrary but the result of thorough analysis by our design and engineering team, considering all specified requirements.

Unrivalled value through partnership

Our commitment to understanding our clients' unique situations forms the foundation of our partnerships. In the case of Amazonen-Werke, this ethos enabled us to deliver a solution that truly sets their product apart in the agriculture industry.

The 3-part silicone rubber keypad we developed not only meets the rigorous demands of the operating environment but also enhances the user experience with its functional and aesthetic appeal.

Silicone rubber is an exceptionally robust and durable material, renowned for its ability to withstand demanding conditions, including moist environments and rigorous cleaning regimes.

Silicone rubber keypad for agricultural machines with backlit keys

Backlit keys significantly improve usability, especially in agricultural machinery where it's essential to have a reliable control panel. This feature enables safe operation of the equipment in both sunlight and nighttime conditions.

HMI terminal for agricultural machinery with silicone rubber keypad and backlight

Amazonen-Werke's control terminal for agricultural equipment, featuring our contribution: the three-part silicone rubber keypad.

Our delivery to Amazonen-Werke is a three-part silicone rubber keypad. Engineered and manufactured to withstand demanding user environment of an agricultural machine.