Would the pictured method of adding buttons to a display bezel (in words: u-shaped cut-outs before micro switches) work over years of daily use or should I find another way, like snap-on 3d-printed caps for micro switches with a rectangular operator?
I used them in so many applications and they held up so far.
I do have some tips for success esp. if you’re doing this the first time:
For example, in your mock, you have a very wide tab. That will require more force to press compared to my implementation (see picture below). You will need to play with the size of the tab for the best balance between durability and amount of force required for the button to be pressed.
If your “buttons” will be exposed to heat, consider PETG or ABS as PLA will either soften or get brittle over time when exposed to heat, causing your tabs/button to break eventually.
Add “bumps” so there are tactile feature to guide the fingers which area to press. (see picture below)
Thanks for your tips! Glad to hear it could be a durable solution. I’m not sure what you mean by bumps though, the second picture is unclear to me. The picture shows bevelled indentations around inerface elements. I like the idea and this would be possible in my design, too, but I couldn’t do anything protruding as the front will be on the plate.
You’re welcome!
I’m referring to the protrusions as the bumps. It’s not mandatory though – only if possible. If you really want to add them, you can have a small part printed and glued on top of it. The protrusions/bump would make it easier to press compared to a flat surface.
Do you see the four (4) little peg-like structures in the second picture? Those are what I was referring to as bumps/protrusions/buttons.
