The industry of construction is a vast and varied sector that covers everything from constructing buildings and infrastructure (i.e. roads, trainlines, bridges, tunnels etc) to maintenance, renovation and much more. This industry is one of the key pillars of any economy, and with such high importance, it is crucial for construction machinery and components to be reliable, hard-wearing and long-lasting.
There are countless types of machinery and equipment that are used in the construction sector, but some of the most common examples are:
Excavators
Bulldozers
Cranes
Rollers
Trenchers
Dump trucks
Loaders
Compactors
Constructing a Great Switch
When choosing switches for construction machinery and applications, you need to consider which components will be the most comfortable and easy to use, whilst still retaining productivity. Below are 3 of the key factors to keep in mind when designing the HMI of your machine, in order to provide the best experience for the user.
1. Safety
In such a demanding industry as construction, the first consideration should always be safety. Choosing high quality, hard-wearing switches with reliable mechanisms is an easy way to improve the safety of a piece of machinery or equipment. Emergency stop buttons are also crucial to add to any heavy machinery, so that it can be immediately shut off in the case of an accident.
2. Ergonomics
With workers on construction sites often having to operate a piece of machinery for an extended period of time, their comfort should be another high priority. Creating a comfortable environment with ergonomic controls allows workers to complete their tasks with the least amount of effort needed, which will in turn extend the amount of time they can operate the machinery, and increase overall productivity.
3. Efficiency
An efficiently designed HMI can also optimise productivity. Selecting easy to use switches and placing the most commonly used controls closest to the operator can reduce wasted time and energy. Intuitive and simple design can further improve efficiency, by making controls easy to see and feel. This can be achieved with LED illumination, custom text and symbols, and haptic feedback.
Construction Switches from RJS Electronics
Rocker Switches
Rocker Switches are a common choice for construction machinery, as they can be used as on/off switches or as a simple forward/reverse control. We offer both panel mount and PCB rocker switches in a variety of shapes, sizes and colours. Custom symbols or text can also be added.
Emergency Stop Buttons
When pressed, our Emergency Stop Buttons will immediately stop the machine or system in use, in order to prevent any accidents or injuries. They can then only be released using a 'pull' or 'twist' mechanism. You can select e-stops with a variety of actuator shapes and sizes, plus IP rated and LED illuminated styles.
Toggle Switches
Toggle Switches are a simple solution for many construction and industrial applications due to their compact size and straightforward operation. We offer both panel mount and PCB toggle switches in a variety of sizes, with IP rated options. Rubber boots can also be added to further protect against dust and water.
Start/Stop Buttons
Start/Stop Buttons for construction applications need to be large and easily visible to the user, with tactile feedback. Our range of Anti-Vandal switches are a perfect solution for start/stop functions as they are LED illuminated for increased visibility and can be customised with text or symbols. We have momentary or latching options, with high IP ratings and single or dual-colour illumination.
Navigation Switches
Navigation Switches, especially joystick style switches, are popular in the construction industry because their multi-functional design allows the user to quickly change controls. We have a wide range of navigation switches available, with LED illuminated and IP rated options and capability for customisation.
Selector Switches
Selector Switches are another favoured alternative for push button switches that are often found in construction equipment and machinery. They can have a momentary or latching function, with 2 or 3 positions, as well as LED illumination. We offer both metal and plastic styles with some IP rated options.
Conclusion
The construction industry requires hard-wearing switches that are resistant to constant wear and tear, as well as to dust and water. However, whilst it is important to select components that meet these criteria, the comfort, safety and efficiency of the user should also be taken into consideration to create the best overall experience.
If you are interested in purchasing switches and components for your construction project/equipment, you can find out more about what we offer by speaking to our experienced Sales Engineers.
Interested in our products? Speak to us today!
How to place an order?
We operate Monday – Thursday (8 am – 5 pm) and Fridays (8 am – 4.30 pm)
Call us on +44 (0) 1234 213600 to speak to our Sales Engineers or e-mail us
on [email protected] alternatively, leave us a message using our online contact form.
View our full product range here | Download our recent product catalogue
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