Pressure Plate Switch
Pressure Plate Switch
Purpose
The pressure plate is an assistive device designed to activate electronics through applied pressure. This switch enables users with limited motor abilities to interact with their environment more easily by pressing or stepping on the switch. This switch is much thinner and flatter than a button switch.
Purchasing and Price
Prices vary depending on the brand, size, and sensitivity of the switch. On average, a commercially available pressure plate switch costs between $50 and $200, making it reliable and durable, but costly.
Ready-Made switches on the market:
- Enabling Devices, Plate Switch ($59.95)
- Mealtime Partners, Pal Pad ($80.95 - $88.95)
- Adaptivation, Flexible Switch ($79.00)
DIYs
DIY 1: Cardboard and Aluminum Foil
Expertise Required
Anyone can make it!
Materials Required
- Cardboard sheets (10 pieces for $4.99)
- Aluminum foil ($2.39)
- Tape ($3.29)
- Insulated wires, 22 Gauge, ($5.19)
Instructions
- Follow this website instructions for DIY Pressure Plate
Results From Our Team’s Recreation
Our team successfully built a working pressure plate switch using this method. The switch was responsive and functioned well. This was able to activate an LED; however, for higher durability, using sturdier materials such as acrylic sheets or 3D-printed parts is recommended. This DIY reduces costs while maintaining functionality, making it an accessible alternative for individuals needing assistive switches on a budget. The size and shape is completely customizable. Below is our DIY pressure plate.
This is an alternative example using different materials to make a pressure plate switch: