Device Details

Overview

The Open Rocker Switch is a cost-effective, 3D printable accessibility switch. The switch consists of two separate switches that are activated by pressing on either side of the top rocker.  The switch is 167 mm L x 79 mm W x 16 mm H and uses two standard 3.5 mm mono cables. Using the model of tactile switch specified, the activation force is about 1.3 N (130 gf) for each side. This switch is comparable in size, activation force, and travel to the discontinued AbleNet Rocker Switch.

Usage

The Open Rocker Switch has two 3.5 mm mono cables  to carry the two signals. They can be connected to two separate devices, one device with two mono connections, or one device with a single stereo connection (with the use of an additional mono to stereo adapter). The Open Rocker Switch is compatible with the Xbox Adaptive Controller. 

Cost

The cost of materials for this project is approximately $16 excluding shipping. In Canada, shipping from Digi-Key without the $100 minimum to qualify for free shipping will add $8.

 

Build Instructions

Bill of Materials

To assemble the switch, you will need:

2 – 3.5 mm mono cable (e.g. https://www.digikey.ca/short/p4ft0w , ~$10.40 OR try local dollar store)

2 – 12 mm tactile switch (e.g. Omron B3F-5050, https://www.digikey.com/short/jvzq2d, ~$1.90)

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

Tools
  • Soldering iron
  • Solder
  • Wire strippers / wire cutters / flush cutters
  • Hot glue gun
  • Hot glue sticks
  • Superglue
  • Hobby knife or scissors
  • Goggles
3D Printing

1 – 3D Printed Switch Top (~ 32 g of filament, $1.38, ~ 3h:23m )

1 – 3D Printed Switch Bottom (~ 35 g of filament, $1.39, ~3h:18m)

1 – 3D Printed Divider (~ 4.5 g of filament, $0.14,  ~ 0h:30m)

2 – 3D Printed Buttons (~ 20 g of filament, $0.84, ~ 3h:46m)

2 – 3D Printed Button Pins (~0.2 g of filament, $0.01, ~0h:03m)

Top and bottom should be printed with 6 walls. The buttons and divider can be printed in different colors for greater contrast or based on user preference.

 

Assembling the Switch

Detailed assembly instructions available in the linked file or on the GitHub repository.