Raindrop Switch - Adaptive Electronic Switch

Raindrop Switch - Adaptive Electronic Switch - open-source assistive technology product by the Makers Making Change community

About this project

The Raindrop Switch is an affordable adaptive switch, designed to make using electronics more accessible. The switch fits any standard 3.5mm jack, and expands the activation surface to 20mm. This product was designed by Makers Making Change. To learn more, visit their website at https://makersmakingchange.com/

The challenge

The Raindrop Switch is a cost-effective solution to a common problem faced by many people with limited or restricted finger mobility: using electronics. Accessible, adaptive switches make using electronics infinitely easier for people with a variety of abilities, yet they are often expensive and difficult to find.

Makers Making Change is an initiative of the Neil Squire Society, a Canadian non-profit that helps people with disabilities.

We are committed to creating a network of volunteer makers who support people with disabilities in their communities through 3D printing assistive devices.

Who it helps

The Raindrop Switch is an affordable adaptive switch, designed to make using electronics more accessible. The switch fits any standard 3.5mm jack, and expands the activation surface to 20mm.

How it works

This product was designed for people with limited finger mobility who have trouble using electronics. Our adaptive Raindrop Switch is a cost-effective solution that bridges the gap between people with disabilities and daily electronic usage.

These days, many electronic devices are controlled by small switches, buttons or knobs. For those with limited finger mobility, using these devices can be a challenge.

This switch has an activation surface of 20mm, making it easy to control for people with a variety of abilities. It is a cheap, durable alternative to other accessibility switches on the market. Adaptive switches modify complex electronic controls and allow people to work and play independently.

This is a cost-effective 3D printable accessibility switch that uses a standard 3.5 mm cable. Using the model of tactile switch specified, the activation force is about 1.3 N (130 gf). The switch is well-suited for use by a finger. It can be plugged into any standard 3.5 mm AT interface and also can be used with the Xbox Adaptive Controller. Multiple switches can be used to get input from more than one finger. The switch can be mounted using adhesive on the rear surface.

Tools Needed:

3D Printer

Solder Iron

Hot Glue Gun

Wire Cutter/Stripper

Bill of Materials:

Please see BOM and printing models in the downloadable product file.

Estimated Time to Make:

1 hour of machine time

30 minutes of assembly time

Project details

The build files for Raindrop Switch - Adaptive Electronic Switch are free to download from this page - open source, shared by TOM: Tikkun Olam Makers.

Related projects

Browse all TOM projects · Search projects · TOM communities · Makeathons and events