Adaptive Controller Buttons for Impaired Motor Control

A large, durable impact button designed for people with limited fine motor control. Instead of pressing a small button with a finger, the user can tap or bump their arm against a paddle, triggering an input.

The design works well for:

1. Individuals with reduced dexterity
2. Adaptive gaming or accessibility interfaces

The button uses a large paddle surface and simple conductive contacts that close a circuit when the paddle is struck.

This design allows for multiple buttons for dynamic and personalized set ups.

Electronics

1. 1 × Makey Makey
2. 2 × Alligator clip wires
3. Copper tape

Hardware

1. 1 × 3D printed paddle enclosure

Tools

1. 3D printer
2. Scissors

Two conductive surfaces (copper tape) are placed inside the paddle on the raised contact plates:

1. Contact plate A connects to Makey Makey input
2. Contact plate B connects to ground

When the paddle is hit:

1. The paddle flexes
2. The two conductive plates touch
3. The circuit closes
4. The Makey Makey registers a key press

Because the paddle is large, the user does not need precise control, even a broad arm movement will trigger it.

Once you've printed the stl at 100% scale, wrap the clip attachment points in copper tape, extending to the contact plate.

Important:

1. The strips must not touch when idle
2. They should touch when the paddle is pressed

This creates the button action.

e.g.

Attach alligator clips:

1. Yellow wire → lower copper plate
2. Red wire → upper copper plate

Then connect them to the Makey Makey:

1. Red → Input (e.g., SPACE or CLICK)
2. Yellow → Ground

This creates a complete Makey Makey input circuit.

This adaptive button can be mounted in several ways:

1. Velcro strap to the forearm
2. Mounted to a wheelchair armrest
3. Attached to a desk edge