How CDS Solved a Tricky Problem for an Outdoor Kiosk Manufacturer

Two TFT LCDs with Optically Bonded PCAP Touch

woman with smartphone at automated parcel machine

Customers Challenges

Our customer, an outdoor kiosk manufacturer, faced a challenging task: finding two TFT LCDs to retrofit into an existing kiosk application. While they could re-engineer certain elements of the installation, the external structure of the kiosk had to remain unchanged. Additionally, the displays needed to be retrofitted on-site.

The specific requirements were:

  • Display sizes:
    • 7.0” with 1024(RGB) x 600 resolution.
    • 15.6” with 1920(RGB) x 1080 resolution.
  • Interfaces:
    • LVDS for the display.
    • USB for the projected capacitive (PCAP) touch.
  • Environmental durability:
    • High brightness for sunlight readability.
    • Wide temperature operation (-30°C to +85°C).
  • Long-term availability:
    • Guaranteed product lifecycle of at least 10 years, matching the kiosk’s service period.

Initial Discussions

Drawing from our extensive experience in supplying TFT displays, industrial monitors, and PanelPCs for similar environments, we recognized that simply providing high-brightness displays would not suffice. For optimal optical performance, the displays required:

  1. High brightness LED backlights (minimum 1000 cd/m²).
  2. High contrast ratios (minimum 1000:1).
  3. Wide viewing angles (80°/80°/80°/80°).
  4. Optical bonding between the touch panel and the display to minimize reflections.
  5. Durability to withstand harsh outdoor conditions.
Solution

We identified two high-quality displays from our partner, Startek, that met almost all the customer’s specifications. The only challenge was the touch interface, which needed a USB connection instead of the standard I²C.

7.0” Display Solution

  • IPS TFT LCD (16:9 aspect ratio).
  • Optically bonded PCAP touch.
  • LVDS interface.
  • 1024(RGB) x 600 resolution.
  • 1600 cd/m² brightness.
  • 1000:1 contrast ratio.
  • Wide viewing angles: 80°/80°/80°/80°.
  • Operating temperature: -30°C to +85°C.

15.6” Display Solution

  • IPS TFT LCD (16:9 aspect ratio).
  • Optically bonded PCAP touch.
  • LVDS interface.
  • 1920(RGB) x 1080 resolution.
  • 1300 cd/m² brightness.
  • 1100:1 contrast ratio.
  • Wide viewing angles: 85°/85°/85°/85°.
  • Operating temperature: -30°C to +85°C.

To address the USB touch interface requirement, we proposed a semi-custom solution for both PCAP touch sizes. This involved:

  • Replacing the standard I²C interface with USB.
  • Designing a new touch FPC and integrating a custom touch controller IC.

Although this solution required a small Non-Recurring Engineering (NRE) fee and a Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ), these costs were well within the customer’s budget.

Additionally, for the 15.6” display, we provided a lightweight aluminium frame, which facilitated mounting the display within the existing framework of the kiosk.

Execution

CDS took full responsibility for coordinating every aspect of the project. By working with a single supplier and minimizing external inputs, we ensured:

  • Strict project control.
  • Adherence to the timeline.
  • Delivery of high-quality displays to specification and on schedule.
Results

The project was completed successfully, meeting all the customer’s technical and logistical requirements. Key outcomes included:

  • Timely delivery of both display solutions.
  • Rapid and seamless retrofitting into the existing kiosks.

This case demonstrates how CDS’s tailored solutions and project management expertise can overcome complex challenges, delivering superior results for our customers.

MORE CASE STUDIES TO COME

Need More Information?

CALL US +44 (0)1634 791600

CLICK TO EMAIL US!