Keyboard switch-based fidget toy

1 - Introduction

I saw this on Thingiverse while I was looking for something else. Source: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:3622010

Of course, my first thought was more. I suspect something similar to what I have here would already exist, I just haven't done a thorough search.

2 - Design points

2.1 - Dimensions

I have gone with the 80 mm diameter version for the example here. I wanted something small enough to use in one hand, but also large enough for two-handed use. The 80 mm dimension refers to the sphere diameter, without switches or keycaps installed.

2.2 - Number of switches

Maximise the number of switches without clashing/interference.

2.3 - Type of switches

I have gone for MX-style switches, plenty of variety available, and plenty of keycaps available. I have used Kailh Box Navy switches; tactile, clicky, and quite high actuation force. To maximise satisfaction.

2.4 - Keycaps

I wanted keycaps with a symmetrical/uniform profile.

• Visual symmetry
• Consistent height all around, so it doesn't matter which side of the keycap you approach from

DSA, XDA, MOA, and KOA profiles satisfy this criteria. They have different heights, so choose one you like. I went for KOA because I could get them easily for a reasonable price in a design a liked. I chose a design with centered legends, not all are perfectly centered, so it's a bit annoying.

2.5 - Material of construction

I opted for resin 3D-printing (SLA), as it gives a solid final product, i.e., 100 % infill. It is also quite smooth straight off the printer. This is not mandatory, but the added weight to the final product is nice

2.6 - General comments

I took some rough guesses in the final dimensions to account for tolerances in the 3D-printing. Your 3D-printer, material of choice, etc. may result in a final print that is too small/large for the switches. You may have to do some sanding/cutting/filing for proper fitment. If it's too large, you may have to glue the switches in.

The STL files are in millimetre units.

3 - The meez

• The 3D-printed base {1}
• 22x switches {2}
• 22x keycaps {3}

The STL file for the print (Ball80_8.stl) can be found in the STLfiles folder.

4 - Assembly

4.0 - Painting (optional)

The 3D-printing service I use also offers a painting service, so I was able to skip this step.

4.1 - Install switches

4.2 - Install keycaps

4.3 - Et voilà

Page up for power

5 - Conclusions

It's pretty good, but it needs more switches. They layout will need to change for this, I will update if I make another one.

In the future I may add a mounting/stand option.