Bistable Compliant Switch

This bistable switch is an example of a compliant mechanism with a four-bar mechanism pseudo-rigid-body model. A contact force is created by causing the contacts to connect before the second stable equilibrium position is reached. Living hinges are used at the other joints. This mechanism could be used as a fully compliant electrical switch, or for other applications, such as on cabinet door hinges.

This can be 3D printed or milled. For ideal use, milling or cutting with polypropylene results in the best performance.

If 3D printing, the filament you use and its fatigue/flex properties will determine the number of cycles it can handle. See print settings