June 18, 2026
Description
This project explores how an ordinary light switch can be transformed into a more immersive and engaging user interface without modifying the underlying electrical installation.
Rather than replacing the original switch mechanism, this design conceals it behind a functional reactor-inspired control panel. The result is a light switch that feels less like a household component and more like a piece of futuristic equipment.
The original switch remains fully operational while a dedicated mechanical interface provides a completely new interaction experience.
✔ Designed for common European rocker switch systems
✔ Includes an experimental US Decora version
✔ Shared internal mechanism across all supported versions
✔ Only the adapter plate and cover differ between EU and US Decora versions
✔ The rocker support piece does not require glue and can be omitted if additional clearance is needed
⚠ The US Decora version has not yet been fully verified on physical hardware and may require minor adjustments depending on the switch manufacturer
✘ Not compatible with traditional US toggle switches
Adapter Plate EU
Cover EU
Cover EU Integrated Cooling
Adapter Plate US Decora
Cover US Decora
Cover US Decora Integrated Cooling
Rocker
Rocker Pivot
Button ONLINE
Button SHUTDOWN
Cooling Top
Cooling Bottom
Reactor Symbol
All mechanical components are shared between versions.
Only the adapter plate and cover need to be changed when switching between supported switch formats.
All mechanical components are shared between versions.
Only the adapter plate and cover need to be changed when switching between supported switch formats.
The goal of this project was to combine functionality and aesthetics in a way that goes beyond a purely decorative switch frame.
The design focuses on creating an object that feels purposeful and believable while remaining practical for everyday use and accessible to the maker community.
The project emphasizes:
Preserving the original switch functionality
Avoiding permanent modifications to the installation
Introducing a more immersive switching experience
Creating a modular platform for future themed variations
Optimizing components for FDM printing and straightforward assembly
Inspired by futuristic control panels and cyberpunk design language, the Cyber Reactor Edition transforms a standard rocker switch into a reactor-style interface.
Beneath the exterior, a hidden mechanical linkage transfers the movement of the external controls to the original switch while preserving its intended operation.
The design combines integrated surface details with optional accent pieces to create a believable sci-fi aesthetic without sacrificing usability.
Features include:
Functional reactor-inspired control interface
Hidden mechanical operation of the original switch
Adapter system for reversible installation
Optional separately printable accent pieces for multi-color customization
Modular foundation for future themed variations
The aim was to create a design that feels like a functional component from a larger sci-fi environment rather than a simple decorative accessory.
Material: PLA
Recommended settings:
Layer height: 0.20 mm
Infill: 15–20%
Perimeters: 3–4
Supports: Required
The housing was designed with visual appearance and structural integrity in mind.
Material: PLA recommended
Recommended settings:
Layer height: 0.20 mm
Infill: 10–15%
Perimeters: 2–3
Several decorative elements, including the reactor symbol and cooling details, are provided as separate printable parts. These components are intended to be assembled as part of the final design and were separated primarily to simplify multi-color printing and improve print quality without requiring an AMS system.
Material: PETG recommended
Recommended settings:
Layer height: 0.20 mm
Infill: 100%
Perimeters: 4–5
The adapter plate remains permanently installed and should provide long-term durability.
Material: PETG recommended
Recommended settings:
Layer height: 0.20 mm
Infill: 100%
Perimeters: 4–5
PETG provides improved toughness and fatigue resistance for clips, moving parts, and repeated use.
Remove the original switch frame.
Install the adapter plate behind the frame using the existing mounting points.
Reinstall the original frame and rocker switch.
Insert a short piece of 1.75 mm filament to serve as the axle for the rocker mechanism.
Assemble the mechanical components.
Install the decorative components.
Attach the Cyber Reactor housing to the adapter plate.
Assembly Note:
The rocker support piece does not need to be glued in place.
In most installations it is securely retained by the surrounding housing components.
If additional clearance behind the cover is required, the rocker support can be omitted entirely without affecting normal operation.
This project is intended as a decorative and mechanical enhancement only.
The design must not interfere with the safe operation of the underlying electrical components. Always disconnect power before working on electrical installations and comply with local regulations.
This model was created for the Printables Light Switch Covers contest.
The project explores how everyday objects can be reimagined through thoughtful mechanical design while maintaining practicality, reversibility, and ease of installation.
If you build one, I'd love to see your own reactor control panels and future themed variations.
Keep making things.
License:
Creative Commons — Attribution — Noncommercial — NoDerivatives
Roggason
