faceplate

Etymology

Compound of face + plate.

noun

1. A removable protective shield separating the inner workings of a machine from operator and observer.
   The keyboard's faceplate, that is, the cover holding the plastic key against the rubber keyboard, is usually molded ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) plastic. 1988, Electronic Design, volume 36, numbers 1-6, page 124
2. A rigid flat surface that has an active role in the interaction of a device with an operator or user.
3. A transparent window forming part of a helmet directly in front of the wearer's face, allowing them to see out.