The Learning Platform
The project learning platform takes you through the full design process using a variety of media - from explainer videos and Tinkercad/Fusion 360 3D design tutorials to design method instructions, templates and more.
Micro:bit Switch Access
Computer devices and systems are vital for communication, education, employment, social interaction, and more. But more often than not, they can be inaccessible for people with disabilities. In this project, you will be designing a Bluetooth dual switch access device that enables people with disabilities to control mobile phones, tablets and computers – empowering individuals with physical and cognitive impairments to interact with technology, engage with their surroundings, and enhance their independence.
The process begins by building and learning about an example device called Tap, made up of a micro:bit microcontroller and a series of 3D printed components. Using your newly gained skills, you’ll move on to identify a real or hypothetical end user, and go through a creative journey to customise a dual switch specifically for their needs. Learn more about Tap in the video below and start a free trial to PrintLab today to view the project.
*Special thanks to Loreto Dumitrescu for the project inspiration, Bill Siever for developing the BLE HID plugin for MakeCode, and DrakerDG for the micro:bit 3D model used throughout the project.
Project Difficulty
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This project is rated as advanced and is suitable for all those who have strong skills in 3D design and 3D printing, as well as basic skills with the BBC micro:bit.
Project Length
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The estimated project length is 8 hours, excluding any 3D printing time. This estimate includes designing and making 1 device plus time for testing and creating 1 improved version. The project can be run in shorter or longer periods of time depending on the number of iterations you choose to make. We recommend breaking the project up into multiple sessions (e.g. 8 x 1 hour sessions), which will allow you to 3D print necessary objects between sessions.
Equipment Required
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To participate in this project, you will require:
- A laptop or computer with either Tinkercad or Fusion 360 , and MakeCode software (all free for educational and personal use).
- A software or web application to create a digital portfolio. We recommend using Google Slides as we provide a portfolio template in this format.
- Access to a 3D printer and 3D printing material.
- A micro:bit v2 with battery pack (or multiple depending on your solution).
- Rough modelling materials (e.g. clay, cardboard).
- A mobile, tablet or computer device to pair with your dual switch.
- A device to capture images of your design process to insert into the project portfolio.
Additional materials may be required depending on the design methods you use when developing your solution.
The Portfolio
As you move through each stage of the project, we guide you in filling in a Google Slides template to document your design process - resulting in a beautiful and professional portfolio of work.
The Outcome
Our teaching methodology is focused around creative freedom. By using various research, design and evaluation methods, you'll learn how to create a dual switch access device that's completely unique!
Teacher Resources
With our education licenses, you can generate a share link to give your students access to the project learning platform. Each section of the platform also has a teacher instructions tab, which provides you with step-by-step lesson plan instructions, curriculum alignment resources and an assessment rubric.
Ready to Get Started?
This project is available to subscribers of PrintLab. Learn more about our license options and start a free trial today to access a whole range of resources across the fields of 3D printing, 3D design, assistive technology, product design and STEM.
Start a Free Trial to PrintLab