Author Topic: Robust switch  (Read 1150 times)

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Offline gaminnTopic starter

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Robust switch
« on: August 09, 2019, 07:26:53 pm »
Hi,
I'm looking for a small switch low profile (5 mm height max) that is robust - it should withstand a child's (30 kg) step.

I used some noname tactile switch like this https://solarbotics.com/product/17390/ but it stopped working after several steps.

I also thought about designing switch using some conductive rubber glued on a surface and gold plated pads on PCB - the conductive rubber will touch PCB when someone steps on the surface.

Are there other options?

Thanks
 

Online Gyro

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Re: Robust switch
« Reply #1 on: August 09, 2019, 07:30:39 pm »
If it deliberate step operation, then you can get proper foot switches, designed for musical instrument pedals etc.

Another idea is mechanical paddles with fixed mechanical end stops and attach microswitches.
Best Regards, Chris
 

Offline gaminnTopic starter

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Re: Robust switch
« Reply #2 on: August 09, 2019, 07:35:46 pm »
If it deliberate step operation, then you can get proper foot switches, designed for musical instrument pedals etc.

I really have 5 mm space between stationary surface and the surface where someone steps on.

Another idea is mechanical paddles with fixed mechanical end stops and attach microswitches.

Good idea, thanks, will think about it.
 

Offline m98

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Re: Robust switch
« Reply #3 on: August 09, 2019, 07:41:15 pm »
A plate with an embedded magnet, some kind of flat spring or stiff foam and a hall sensor with adjustable trigger value on a pcb underneath.
 

Offline FenTiger

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Re: Robust switch
« Reply #4 on: August 09, 2019, 08:28:57 pm »
There are special switch mats that detect someone stepping on them, intended for security systems. They're thin enough to hide under a carpet: https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Large-Floor-Pressure-Alarm-Switch-Pad-Mat-PM156/253756658234
« Last Edit: August 09, 2019, 08:31:31 pm by FenTiger »
 

Offline djacobow

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Re: Robust switch
« Reply #5 on: August 10, 2019, 04:08:58 pm »
In ancient times, before IR motion sensors, grocery store automatic doors were triggered by special mats.

Can you still get those? How did they work? They certainly took a ton of abuse.
 

Offline Nusa

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Re: Robust switch
« Reply #6 on: August 10, 2019, 07:34:37 pm »
You haven't made clear the operational requirements. Is the switch intended to operate when stepped on, or is that merely a condition it has to survive? Does it have to survive AND switch when stepped on, survive and NOT switch when stepped on, or merely survive?

I'm thinking of a touch switch, based on either capacitance, piezo, or resistance principle. They all have no moving parts, but their suitability will depend on your requirements.
 

Offline gaminnTopic starter

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Re: Robust switch
« Reply #7 on: August 11, 2019, 11:17:35 am »
You haven't made clear the operational requirements. Is the switch intended to operate when stepped on, or is that merely a condition it has to survive? Does it have to survive AND switch when stepped on, survive and NOT switch when stepped on, or merely survive?

I'm thinking of a touch switch, based on either capacitance, piezo, or resistance principle. They all have no moving parts, but their suitability will depend on your requirements.

I'm sorry how I defined the condition - It is merely out test condition to survive. The switch will not be operated by foot, it will be operated by hand (and it can be hit quite hard).

I decided to try gold plated pads on PCB and conductive rubber. This should withstand almost any force applied. A little problem can be dust (the enclosure of the switch is not IP rated) but the switch will not be operated in harsh environment....
 

Offline AndersJ

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Re: Robust switch
« Reply #8 on: August 11, 2019, 05:52:33 pm »
Capacitive sensor?
"It should work"
R.N.Naidoo
 


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