Device Details

Overview

This is a cost-effective 3D printable accessibility switch based on an initial design by Kevin Cross. The switch is 50 mm L x 18 mm W x 15 mm H and uses a standard 3.5 mm cable. Using the specified model of tactile switch, the activation force is 0.3 – 0.4 N (30-40 gf).

Usage

The switch is well-suited for use by a finger. This switch can be plugged into any standard AT interface. It can also be used with the Xbox Adaptive Controller. Multiple switches can be used to get input from more than one finger. The original design is also available in a dual side-by-side version.

Build Instructions

Bill of Materials

To assemble the switch, you will need:
1 – 3D Printed Switch Base and 3D Printed Switch Cap (~ 6.1 g of filament, $0.26)

1 – 3.5 mm mono cable (e.g. Digikey (CA), All Electronics Corp (USA), or ~$4.50 OR try local dollar store)

1 – 12 mm tactile switch (e.g. Omron B3F-5050, https://www.digikey.com/short/jvzq2d, ~$0.50)

1 – 3D Printed Hinge Pin  (Alternatives: 18 mm section of ballpoint pen ink chamber OR wooden dowel 3 mm diameter x 18 mm length. Or, 3 mm diameter x 18 mm length carbon rod OR 3 mm diameter x 18 mm spring pin )

1/3-1/2 – sticks of hot glue

1 – 3D Printed 12 mm switch soldering jig (Optional; ~5.0 g of filament, $0.25)

Tools

  • Soldering iron
  • Wire strippers / wire cutters
  • Hot glue gun

3D Printing

The base prints flat without support. The top prints on its side and requires support.

Assembling the Switch

See the attached PDF below for detailed assembly instructions.

Clean out any support material from the switch top.

Used side cutters to cut off the through hole mounting lugs from the 12 mm switch and remove the contacts on one side.

Prepare the mono cable, then solder the leads to the switch.

Use a bit of hot glue to secure the switch in place on the base, and then use more glue to secure the cable in place to provide some strain relief.

Before assembling the hinge, make sure to test the switch. Insert the hinge into the switch.