Capacitive push buttons used in Chinas high speed trains´380-series

CAPTRON develops, manufactures and sells optical and capacitive sensors and sensor systems for use worldwide in industrial automation, transportation and building systems.

The product requirements in traffic technology call for the newest technological innovations - in the field of sensor technology are maximum performance and individuality of utmost demand. Best example: the development, production and project management of several thousand SENSORswitches for one of the most modern rail lines worldwide - the CRH 380 series - China’s prestigious high-speed trains.

A project which started with the product series CHT7, and through the specific requirements of the China Railway High-Speed trains, leading to the newly engineered CHT7-2 switch: The height was minimized to suit the thin railcar door frame, the installation was enormously simplified through individual recesses in the aluminum frame, special symbols increased the communication security and also the design was adapted to the futuristic environment.

CAPTRON focuses on the capacitive principle - for a good reason. A simple touch by hand or other body parts is fully sufficient. With several 100 million operating cycles reaches the SENSORswitch the hundredfold number of a normal mechanical switch and is thus ideal for highly-frequented, long-term day-to-day operations on trains. Thus, repairs and additional maintenance expenses are a thing of the past.

The electronics, encapsulated with special waterproof resin, and the weather-resistant housing made of polycarbonate material, protects the electronics against dirt, moisture and external forces. Also the edgeless design prevents dirt from settling. In addition, the highest possible density-protection class permits high-pressure, hot water cleansing at close range.

High-strength industrial adhesive tape allows the uncomplicated adhesive mounting. An optimal solution, because the sensor element is clipped into the ring - fast and easily. Drilling holes incl. bolting for fastening the switches are in the case of the SENSORswitches no longer an issue. Cover, body, disc etc. remain undamaged.

From the initial product inquiry to the final installation of the capacitive SENSORswitch, it took less than a half year - product selection, customized adaptations, consulting, production, delivery and installation - everything went smoothly and in close contact. The result: Thousands of customized switches from CAPTRON ride on the fastest trains in the world.