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5/3/07 New Chassis for Serial Button Box! See below...
31box
A 31 Input, USB Interfaced Response Box
This project was created to replace the older system shown here. The client wanted to keep the same general layout, while upgrading the interface to USB and changing the function of several buttons. The new design contains the original clusters of nine pushbuttons, as well as the six-button cluster.
The older 'spacebar' button was replaced by a 3.7" round domed pushbutton with excellent tactile response. It can also be lighted via LED or incandescent lamp, though the client chose not to utilize this function. The black buttons used in the previous project were extremely 'slow' and required significant operating force. They were replaced with new switches from NKK. This particular version provides excellent tactile feedback even with a light (300 gram) touch. They are designed with a removable cap which is available in many different colors.
For this project, the caps were specified to be clear. Printed material can be inserted under the cap, allowing for easy customization. These switches can also be illuminated, but are not at this time.
The center cluster of 5 small pushbuttons surrounding one larger button was included as previously designed. The joystick shown has been modifed to rest in the 'down center' position, rather than 'center center.' Per the client's request, one switch activiates when the joystick begins to be pushed up, and the second switch activates in the 'up center' position. This arrangement allows the partial completion of a task to be recorded. The joystick housing is machined to restrict left/right joystick motion.
Finally, the joystick contains a rotary encoder which transmits separate signals for clockwise and counterclockwise rotation of the joystick shaft. The encoder switch contains 12 poles, spaced at 30 degree angles. Tactile feedback is good, and rotation force is fairly low.
The enclosure, machined by Falcon Sheet Metal of Bountiful, Utah, is made of black-anodized, .09" brushed aluminum. It is incredibly sturdy. Enclosure fasteners are hex headed to deter tampering.
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