What is the difference between aTouch and uxTouch? – Mounting and sealing concept

Table of Contents

Front view of uxTouch and aTouch

Back view of uxTouch and aTouch

aTouch and uxTouch represent two different mechanical integration philosophies. The difference is not related to optical performance, but to how the display is mounted, secured, and sealed within the device enclosure.
Understanding this distinction helps select the right solution already at the enclosure design stage.

aTouch –Traditional mechanically secured integration

aTouch follows a classic module-based mounting concept. The display is installed inside the enclosure and mechanically secured using structural elements such as screws, brackets, spacers, or compression frames.

In this approach:

• The display is inserted into a machined opening in the housing
• Mechanical fixation is required (“screwed-in” integration)
• The enclosure defines the visible front geometry
• Sealing depends entirely on the enclosure design

The enclosure is responsible for:

• Mechanical stability
• Load distribution
• Vibration resistance
• Compression control
• IP protection level

Because aTouch has a traditional rectangular module structure, it must be physically retained within the housing. Any environmental protection (dust, moisture, water ingress) is achieved through gaskets, compression frames, or sealing solutions defined by the customer’s mechanical design.

In short, aTouch relies on the enclosure architecture for fixation and sealing.

uxTouch – Front glass-to-housing mounting

uxTouch is designed for direct front integration through the cover glass. Unlike traditional modules, it does not require front-side mounting holes. The glass surface becomes the visible and structural front interface of the device.

In this concept:

• The display is mounted from the front
• The glass is attached directly to the enclosure surface
• No front mechanical fasteners are required
• A flat, modern front panel design is naturally supported

For fixation and sealing, Riverdi commonly uses 3M 9495LE acrylic adhesive transfer tape as a standard solution.

This adhesive-based mounting:

• Provides both bonding and perimeter sealing
• Eliminates the need for front screws
• Simplifies enclosure machining
• Enables clean, flush front integration

Optional rear support brackets are recommended in applications exposed to high vibration or mechanical stress.

Sealing Philosophy Comparison

The sealing strategy differs fundamentally between the two concepts.

aTouch

• Sealing is defined entirely by the enclosure
• Requires mechanical compression (gasket + frame)
• IP rating depends on structural design
• No predefined adhesive sealing interface

This solution offers high flexibility but requires more mechanical design effort.

uxTouch

• Sealing is integrated into the mounting concept
• Adhesive (e.g., 3M 9495LE) provides perimeter sealing
• Simplifies flat front designs
• Higher IP levels are typically easier to achieve

However, final IP performance always depends on the complete enclosure design, material selection, gasket compression strategy, and environmental requirements defined by the customer.

Key Integration Differences

When to choose each solution

Choose aTouch if:

• Your design already includes a mechanical mounting frame
• The display is part of a larger structural assembly
• Sealing is controlled by compression and hardware
• You prefer a traditional “industrial module” integration
• You want to have easy access to the display backside

Choose uxTouch if:

• You are designing a flat, modern front panel
• You want to eliminate front screws
• You prefer adhesive-based integration
• You aim to simplify enclosure machining and sealing design
• Need higher IP rating
• You don’t need to dismount the display later on