Octoswitch base models for remixing into fun toys + OctoBot fidget toy based on the tiny octoswitch

Purpose: remix and extend

The octoswitch is a building block with fun switching action. It scales well from tiny (10 x 16 x 8 mm) to medium (20 x 32 x 8 mm) and likely beyond. Please remix this to create fun toys or useful gadgets. Or print as-is at risk of finding yourself mindlessly snapping it back and forth.

Print recommendations

Print with sufficient resolution to achieve switching action. For the tiny size:

• 0.2 mm layer height with a 0.4 mm nozzle is plenty;
• 0.3 mm layer height will be too loose.

For the larger models, you might be able to be more sloppy.

Adhesion can be an issue for the base models, so add a brim. Once you've worked into into a creative masterpiece, you will probably have enough surface contact to skip the brim.

OctoBot: An example remix

OctoBot is an example build based on the tiny size. Please try to make toys that are happier than OctoBot!

• Good toy for kids. 
• Good for fidgeting. 
• Quick print (15 minutes for me).

Learning Activity for Kids

Recommended for 9 yrs old and up. Younger ages for the brave.

1. Show a kid the OctoBot and the base models. Best to print one.
2. Challenge them to make up their own toy incorporating a base model.
3. Have them sketch ideas onto a piece of paper based on OctoBot.
4. Import a base model into Tinkercad and help them go to work.
5. Export their completed work as an .STL, slice, and print, and print, and print again …