riskable / void_switch Public

Parametric 3D printable magnetic separation contactless key switch and stabilizers (OpenSCAD files). For the Kicad files see the void_switch_kicad repo.

Each switch needs three 4x2mm magnets (Note: Most cheap N35 magnets are actually 4x1.7mm which is fine) and the stabilizers require two 4x2mm magnets and some 18 gauge stainless steel wire (make sure it's magnetic; use the cheap stuff). Both of these are configurable, however. So if you want to make a switch that uses 3x2mm magnets you can do that (with a bit of work changing settings around).

For reference, there's two magnets in the switch itself (one in the sheath and one in the stem) and the levitator needs its own magnet.

Prerendered (4mm travel) void switch files are provided in .stl and .3mf format for 4x1.7mm (most common) and 4x2mm magnets with a MAGNET_VOID of 0.6mm. This should make for an all-around decent set of parameters for doing quick tests and demos (to see how the switch feels). For your own keyboard make sure you try out many different MAGNET_VOID values and also try changing the STEM_TOLERANCE value to see how you like tighter-fitting or looser-fitting switches.

I've added several tables of switch strengths to the utils.scad and pretty good estimation of how strong your switch will be will show up in the OpenSCAD console. Here's what it should look like (text enlarged and highlighted for effect):

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