Microswitch hack

thingiverse

Transforming a microswitch into an on/off switch has become my obsession since salvaging numerous switches from scrap metal piles. They're plentiful but the real treasure hunt lies in tracking down compact on/off switches that won't add bulk to any circuit. This ingenious device makes up for it, morphing a standard micro-switch into a neatly-sized on/off toggle. Smaller ones worked perfectly, boasting 10.2mm thickness and 15.85mm height with lengths stretching to about 29mm - they might've originated from an old microwave oven, powering a mere 15 amps. But don't get discouraged if you can only find bigger ones; this conversion should still work flawlessly. To give yourself more precision while building this converter, crank up the layer count to 0.2mm and decrease your 3D printer's speed for perfect fitment. Take one batch, use 4 grams of ABS, and it'll take you about 20 minutes to set. Remove all unnecessary support materials before carefully guiding the lever into its designated slot on top. Since a loose fit is what you're aiming for, gently sandpaper its edges if need be - just make sure it slides in easily enough. Slide your now-configured micro-switch right inside and then use its button to press down - an action which also happens when you try removing the device.