Knob Switch
Intro: Knob Switch
In making a project with conductive paint, I wasn't entirely happy about the paperfold switch I used. The paper fold switch is simple, robust, and easy to make, but it was a momentary switch. For some electronics projects I want a permanent switch.
To that end, I'm beginning to prototype some solutions. One possibility I've been exploring is the knob switch, like the knob on your stove top. Although not a potentiometer, but a simple on off switch. When turned 90 degrees the knob switch starts or stops current.
STEP 1: Tools and Materials
Craft knife
Twist awl (not necessary, but useful)
Paperboard or cardstock
Copper tape — I used Rentokil "Slug and Snail Barrier Tape" found in home and garden supply stores. Be aware that the adhesive side is not as conductive as the top side.
Coin cell battery
LED
Three brass fasteners (3/8" long preferred)
STEP 2: Cut the Card
STEP 3: Fold Switch
STEP 4: Attach Copper Tape
STEP 5:
STEP 6: Layout the Circuit
STEP 7: Get It Together
Apply copper tapes to the tops of the battery and LED leads and fasten the switch to the middle of the gap.
STEP 8: Mission: Accomplished
STEP 9: Variations, Improvisations, and Meditations
As you can tell from my sketches, I wanted to make a small plastic knob. If anyone knows of a good source of plastic bits in the UK, please let me know. I'm also exploring ways to make the switch more two-dimensional, maybe I'll make a switch that you can move with a pencil point.
A knob switch would also be useful for soft circuits. Elizabeth Perry, who helped me out in thinking this through, also suggested surface mount LEDs. She also told me not to miss plusea's Instructables. Don't you miss them either.
You can also check out this soft-circuit permanent switch.
2 Comments
craftclarity 10 years ago
This is cool! It's hard to tell what it is from the first image though. Have you thought about putting a nice pic of it in action up there for us to see?
Cogtoys 10 years ago
Will do. Thanks for the heads up!