FIRST Tech Challenge Power Switch Plate for REV Power Switch

thingiverse

When reading the FIRST Tech Challenge rules regarding a power switch, it's astonishing to require a power switch to be mounted and also have a power switch sign identifying where the power switch is mounted. Why not merge these two elements so that the power switch mounting plate can serve as both? Our initial attempt was a straightforward yellow long power switch mount plate based on the REV power switch mounting plate model dimensions. We printed the Power Switch warning sign directly from the FTC Game Manual and attached it to the 3D printed plate using clear packing tape. It worked out perfectly, but we wanted our CAD team to finalize the design. Our second iteration was a red mount plate with 3D printed lettering. Not having access to dual-color printing, one of our students applied white nail polish on the raised lettering to create a coloring effect - it turned out fantastic! This is just one idea - we're thinking about creating an angled "L" bracket or any other shaped bracket for next season's competition so that the plate/switch can be mounted in various positions and locations where space is limited. It seems absurd that the power switch and the "power switch sign" have to be physically separate when 3D printing can produce a single, all-in-one package. We'd love to see your innovative ideas!