How to design a slide switch mechanism to be waterproof -- ideas?

AI Thread Summary
To design a waterproof slide switch mechanism, several approaches were discussed, including enclosing the slide handle in a polymer boot for protection. A reed switch activated by a sliding magnet was suggested as a way to keep electronics safe from water while allowing operation. Another idea involved using optical sensors to achieve similar functionality without direct exposure to water. Participants emphasized the importance of considering the switch's size, throw length, environmental conditions, and orientation in the design process. Overall, the discussion focused on innovative solutions to create a reliable waterproof slide switch.
Aurimas
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I need to protect electronic parts in case from water. The thing is, I need to design slide switch on the cap of the housing. Maybe any ideas?
 
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These folks enclose the slide handle in a polymer boot.
https://www.e-switch.com/product-catalog/sealed/product-lines/500r-series-slide-switch-sealed-to-ip67

above found with:
https://www.google.com/search?&q=+waterproof++slide++switch
(that's putting {+waterproof +slide +switch} in the Google search field. Without the {})
 
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Welcome to pF.

Maybe you could use a reed switch with a sliding magnet.
The magnetic field will separate the protected electronics from the external water environment.
 
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Baluncore said:
Maybe you could use a reed switch with a sliding magnet.
I had a similar idea, but using optical sensors...
Aurimas said:
I need to protect electronic parts in case from water. The thing is, I need to design slide switch on the cap of the housing.
Welcome to the PF. :smile: Can you say more about what you are trying to do? How big of a slide switch, with how long of a throw? What is the environment (other than wet)? What is the illumination like, and what else is nearby the switch? What is the orientation of the switch (horizontal throw, vertical throw, etc.)?
 
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