Arcade Button Clicker

I created this device to give kids a simple and controlled way to fidget without being disruptive. Many kids with disabilities like autism need movement or sensory input to stay focused, and this allows them to press the buttons instead of tapping or moving around. The large blue and green buttons make it easy to use and visually engaging, while also helping with motor skills. Pressing the buttons provides calming sensory feedback, which can reduce stress and anxiety. By keeping their hands busy, the device helps them concentrate better in class or during tasks. Overall, it is a helpful tool that turns fidgeting into something productive and less distracting

1. 3D-printer
2. 3D-printer filament
3. Onshape account
4. 2 large LED push buttons (blue and green)
5. Electrical wires (red and black)
6. DC power jack and matching power connector
7. Power source (battery or adapter)
8. Solder
9. Soldering iron
10. Wire stripper
11. Super glue (to secure components)

First, I had to design the main part of the box using a 3D modeling program known as Onshape. When modeling the box there was many things that had to be taken into consideration during the early stages of this project. I made sure to include holes in the top of the box that were the exact size of the buttons. These holes allow the buttons to sit flush with the surface so they do not stick out unevenly. This also keeps the buttons from moving around or becoming loose when they are pressed. I also had to make sure the box was big enough on the inside so that all of the wiring could fit properly and connect to the power source for the buttons. Making the holes the correct size and leaving enough space inside was important to ensure a secure and functional design. Using the dimensions above for the length and the width of the box. Then when extruding the box use the width showed in the image of 3.8in. Then I we had added holes on the top so that the buttons would fit flush onto the box.

Next, I designed the base of the box and made sure it fit properly with the main part. I had to ensure that it closed securely so the components inside would stay protected and not move around. At the same time, I made sure it was not too tight, so it could still be opened easily if there was a problem with the wiring or if the battery needed to be replaced. This balance was important so the device would be both durable and easy to maintain.

If the steps were followed correctly then you should have these two different objects shown above. The next step was slicing the design and sending it to the 3D printer. After that, we had to wait for the parts to print, which took some time. When the first prints were finished, we noticed some flaws in the design, such as the holes on the top being too small for the buttons and the base not sliding in properly on the bottom. Because of these issues, we had to go back and adjust the design and reprint the parts a few times. Through this process of testing and improving, I was eventually able to fix the problems and perfect the design so it worked correctly.

Based on the wiring, the buttons are connected in a simple circuit using red and black wires for power and ground. The wires are attached to the terminals on each button so that when the button is pressed, it completes the circuit. This means the button acts as a switch that creates a closed circuit when clicked, allowing electricity to flow and power the button (such as lighting it up). When the button is not pressed, the circuit is open, so no current flows. Since the button is only turned on when pressed this means that the battery will last longer since power is only used while it is pressed. To make sure the connections were secure, the wires were soldered onto the metal terminals of the buttons. Soldering helped create a strong and reliable connection so the wires would not come loose during use. This was important for both safety and making sure the buttons worked consistently every time they were pressed.

We also had to create a battery holder on the side of the box to keep the battery secure. Without a holder, the battery could move around inside the box, which could loosen the wires or disconnect the circuit. This would cause the device to stop working and require constant fixing. By adding a battery holder, we made sure the battery stayed in place and kept a steady connection to the wiring. This helped make the device more reliable and prevented damage to the internal components.

For the final step, we assembled all of the components and carefully put the device together. First, we placed the buttons into the top of the box, making sure they fit securely and sat flush as designed. Then, we connected all of the wiring inside, ensuring that each connection was properly soldered and organized so nothing would come loose. After that, we positioned the battery into the holder on the side so it would stay in place and not interfere with the wiring. Once everything was set up inside, we attached the base to close the box, making sure it fit properly and stayed secure while still being easy to remove if needed. After the full assembly, we tested the device multiple times by pressing the buttons to make sure the circuit closed correctly each time and that everything worked consistently. We also checked that nothing moved around inside and that all parts were stable. This final step was important because it confirmed that the entire design, from the 3D-printed box to the wiring, worked together as planned. It showed that the device was functional, reliable, and ready to be used as a helpful fidget tool.