Mechanically remapping buttons on a flash recorder

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on adapting a flash recorder for easier accessibility by mechanically remapping buttons for a user with limited dexterity. The user intends to create a new housing and faceplate using a 3D printer to allow front access to side buttons, specifically for volume, back, and skip functions. Suggestions include creating a holder to position the recorder sideways and designing larger button mechanisms that can press down on the smaller side buttons. The user has provided images of the recorder layout to clarify the button positioning.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of mechanical button remapping techniques
  • Familiarity with 3D printing and design software
  • Basic knowledge of electronics and circuit board layouts
  • Experience with user interface design for accessibility
NEXT STEPS
  • Research mechanical button remapping methods for electronic devices
  • Explore 3D modeling software options like Tinkercad or Fusion 360
  • Learn about designing accessible user interfaces for individuals with disabilities
  • Investigate materials suitable for creating durable button mechanisms
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for product designers, accessibility engineers, and hobbyists interested in modifying electronic devices for enhanced usability, particularly for individuals with limited dexterity.

k6055w
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I want to buy or build a button that transfers downward force to a sideways force. I’m adapting a voice recorder so my grandmother (who has a hard time pressing small buttons) can use it. Most reasonably priced flash recorders have buttons on the side and I want her to be able to access them from the front so that volume, back, and skip are immediately visible. I have a 3D printer so I was thinking of making a new housing with a faceplate for all the buttons to show through. Of course the buttons on the side of the recorder will have to be mechanically remapped. I hope that was clear. Anyone got an idea?
 
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k6055w said:
I want to buy or build a button that transfers downward force to a sideways force. I’m adapting a voice recorder so my grandmother (who has a hard time pressing small buttons) can use it. Most reasonably priced flash recorders have buttons on the side and I want her to be able to access them from the front so that volume, back, and skip are immediately visible. I have a 3D printer so I was thinking of making a new housing with a faceplate for all the buttons to show through. Of course the buttons on the side of the recorder will have to be mechanically remapped. I hope that was clear. Anyone got an idea?

Welcome to the PF.

Can you post pics or a datasheet of what this recorder looks like? Would one option just be to make a holder that turned the recorder sideways so the buttons were facing up, and make larger button mechanisms that pushed down on the smaller buttons? What information on the face of the recorder needs to be relayed to the new top surface?
 
Thanks.

Here are two pictures: one showing the front and left side and one showing the front and right side. The volume controls are on the left side, skip/back are on the right side, and play/stop/record are on the front. Nearly every recorder on the market has a lot of controls on the sides. I want to be able to see and press every button from the face.

I removed the housing and circuits are printed on the underside of the board so I can't just bend them to face the front.
 

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