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The Impact of Optical Bonding on Touchscreen Technology


July 28, 2023


How Does Optical Bonding Improve Touch Screen Technology?

Touchscreens have become ubiquitous in our daily lives, and we use them on our smartphones, tablets, laptops, and even cars. The technology behind it has undergone significant changes over the years, and optical bonding has been a game-changer. This innovation has revolutionized the display with brighter, clearer, and more durable screens. 

What is Optical Bonding?

Optical bonding is a manufacturing process that involves attaching a touch-sensitive glass layer to the surface of a display. This glass layer is held in place by an optically clear adhesive over the front of the display. The adhesive fills any air gap between the glass layer and the display, creating a seamless, durable bond.

Below, the optical bonding experts at Fortec US take a closer look at the benefits of optical bonding on touchscreen technology: 

Enhancing Clarity and Visibility

The fusion of a touch sensor and display panel through optical bonding eliminates the air gap between them. This absence of an air layer reduces reflections and minimizes light refraction, leading to improved clarity and visibility. With optical bonding, the display appears as if it’s directly under the glass, providing an unparalleled visual experience. Whether it’s a smartphone, tablet, industrial panel, or automotive display, users can now enjoy vibrant visuals and precise touch responsiveness even in challenging lighting conditions.

Durability and Reliability

Optical bonding not only enhances visual appeal but also bolsters durability. By eliminating the air gap, the display becomes more resistant to moisture, dust, and external impact. This robust construction significantly reduces the risk of damage and extends the touchscreen’s lifespan, making it an ideal solution for outdoor environments, industrial settings, and rugged use cases. From military applications to marine displays, optical bonding ensures touchscreens can withstand harsh conditions without compromising performance.

Touch Accuracy and Responsiveness

The direct lamination achieved through optical bonding leads to improved touch accuracy and responsiveness. The absence of an air gap between layers reduces parallax errors, ensuring that the point of touch aligns precisely with the displayed content. This is particularly crucial in applications where precise touch interactions are essential, such as medical devices, aviation systems, and educational tools. With optical bonding, users can enjoy a seamless and natural touch experience, enhancing usability and productivity.

Anti-Glare and Anti-Reflective Properties

Optical bonding can incorporate anti-glare and anti-reflective coatings, further enhancing the usability of touchscreens. These coatings minimize reflections from ambient light sources, making the display more readable and usable in bright environments. Whether it’s a tablet used outdoors, an ATM in a sunlit area, or an interactive kiosk in a bustling mall, optical bonding ensures that the display remains legible and functional, enhancing user satisfaction and engagement.

Applications Across Industries

The impact of optical bonding extends across a wide range of industries. From aviation and automotive to healthcare and retail, the benefits of optical bonding are far-reaching. Avionics displays gain improved readability for pilots, medical devices offer precise touch interactions, and retail kiosks become more engaging and user-friendly. As industries continue to embrace touchscreen technology, optical bonding emerges as a transformative solution that elevates user experiences and drives innovation.

Optical Bonding with Fortec US

Experience cutting-edge display technology through our advanced optical bonding process, VacuBond®. The Fortec Group has developed a groundbreaking production technique that sets new industry standards. Our VacuBond® process, a result of close strategic and technical cooperation, represents the pinnacle of display optical bonding. Unlike traditional methods, vacuum bonding ensures zero optical defects and impeccable material stability, eliminating concerns like yellowing over time. Discover how VacuBond® is reshaping display technology for the better with Fortec!

Contact Us Today to Learn More About Our Custom Digital Screen Solutions!

As the global leader in optical bonding, Fortec US supports you in all project phases – from the construction of the metal housing and procurement of specific parts to the in-house development of controller boards and touchscreen integration. In need of a product, part, or have a project in mind? Contact us today at (631) 580-4360 or on our website for more information.

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