Button Switch

The Button Switch is a simple and affordable device designed for individuals with cerebral palsy. By using the pressing motion, the user can activate various electronic devices or communication tools. This mechanism provides a simple step by step design and requires minimal pressure, making it an accessible option for those seeking greater independence in daily tasks.

Amazon links attached if needed!

1. makey makey and 2 alligator clips
2. button 3D print design
3. copper tape or any conductive material tape
4. rubber bands (any kind but preferably thick like these)
5. hot glue gun and hot glue
6. foam board or any kind of solid material
7. 3D printer
8. wire stripper

The 3D design of the button should be linked in the materials but just in case that doesn't work for whatever reason, you can try this link: https://www.tinkercad.com/things/5jmFogUndMd/edit?returnTo=%2Fdashboard.

The largest piece(the cover) will be known as shape A.

The box without a top will be known as shape B.

The top of the box with the platform and the smallest piece will be known as shape C.

Go ahead and plug it before waiting for the gun to warm up. Make sure your glue is refilled.

Next, cut two small pieces of foam, small enough to fit when you glue both of them onto the bottom of shape B (stacked on top of each other).

To strip the Alligator Clips, you must grab your wire stripper and find the corresponding hole that works best. We used 16awg/1.3mm. Do the same for the second alligator clip.

Take the end of one of the two Alligator clips and tape it on to the platform of shape C. Make sure to tape the rest of the platform with your conductive tape so that there is more coverage for conductive energy to flow and respond.

We used copper tape but you are free to use whatever kind of material type as long as it's conductive to electricity.

Do the same on step 5 to the bottom of shape B, covering the entire foam platform with tape.

Again, you can use whatever tape you want as long as it's conductive material.

There should be 3D printed holes on the side of shape A and B. Align the holes so that they lead right inside of the box and slide the alligator clips through them.

For the button to have somewhat of retracting element, wrap rubber bands on the box. We used two from left to right and one up to down.

If needed, wrap copper around the rubber bands where it's touching the conductivity.

Assemble the button by taking shape B and placing shape C right over it before covering both of them with shape A.

Slide the wires through shape A and make sure the wires correspond with the hole on shape B.

Congrats!! You have a functional button.