Skip to content

pbeeken/eNab_BigButton

Folders and files

NameName
Last commit message
Last commit date

Latest commit

 

History

5 Commits
 
 
 
 
 
 

Repository files navigation

Big Button (not too big)

This is an editable large button for use as an assistive device. While the .STL files are provided here for direct 3D printing a link is provided to OnShape so you can copy and scale the button to different sizes.

Public Link to OnShape Design

It is based on a design on thingaverse downloaded a while ago by some students who wanted to customize the design. We wound up using a different switch available from Digikey which we got for $0.55. The internals of the switch was designed to fit the registration pins on the bottom of the button and to accomodate the square pin on top. A slightly cheaper alternative is a button very similar but lacks the registration pins. We also closed the tolerance on the opening for the 3.1mm power cable so that screwing the top down locks the cable in place. This simplified our 'production line' manufacturing type process for Makers Making Change hacked toys.

The button is designed to be used with a standard 3.1mm audio patch cable which can be scavanged from many discarded speaker or old patch panel wires. Stereo or monorual will work. Simply cut one end and wire the red and white leads to a switch. The device is a favorite of a local hospital for their young members who need a larger switch for some toys we help modify.

Modification Notes

The drawing can be expanded (to a point) by simply changing the proportions of the sketches in the x-y plane. Leave the pedistal the same size and leave the z distances the same for the same profile. The "spiral spring" helps stabilize the z movement.

3D Printing Notes

So far we have printed dozens of buttons in various colors in PLA. ABS would certainly produce a stronger more durable button but we only have 1 color in ABS. We print the buttons in batches and then trade a different colored button (usually high contrast difference) for the button itself. Removing the buttons are easy from a well prepared surface. We take a little extra time removing the buttons with the delicate 'spring' like spiral but if you work a spatula along the spiral to the base of the button the button usually pops off.

Assembly Notes

We solder the jack, push the other end through the hole, solder the button and seat it onto the pedistal. Place the large button onto the small square bead and turn it until the button seats on to the square nib of the switch. Press down to hold it in place and set the ring (a little practice and you can do this very easily.) Thread the ring onto the base and tighten while holding the button down. This will keep the button from losing the fit around the switch top. Tightening the ring will clamp the wire in place.

About

Build characteristics of our modified button

Resources

License

Stars

Watchers

Forks

Releases

No releases published

Packages

No packages published