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What is a Switch?
In simple terms, a switch connects or disconnects a circuit of energy by completing or interrupting the flow of electrical current.
Click here for a diagram.
Switches are found in everyday life. Take a light switch, for example. When the switch is "on" the flow of current is complete and your light shines. When you flip the switch again, the current is interrupted by opening the circuit of energy and your light goes "off."
Switches are also found in most toys today. For example, you squeeze the hand of Elmo (and activate a hidden switch) and Elmo does the Hokie-Pokie.
When we discuss "switches" in terms of Assistive Technology, we are referring to an external switch that enables a person to power/access devices through simplified access. There are many different types of switches, so it is impossible discuss each one. Instead, we will focus on some common access modalities of switches and how they work.
Types of Switches
- MOMENTARY
A momentary switch closes the circuit when depressed and openS the circuit when released; this means that a device will play when a child hits and holds a switch, and stop when the child lets go.
Devices that work well with a momentary switch include: radios, tape players, fans, bubble blowers, or spin pops.
- LATCH (ON/OFF)
A latch switch closes a circuit when activated once and opens a circuit when activated again; in other words, one activation turns a device "on" and a second activation turns a device "off."
The power button on a television is an example of a latch switch.
You may want to consider a latch switch for: teaching higher level cause-effect skills, decreasing the physical demand of playing (activating a switch once versus continuous activation); or for environmental control options (such as turning a radio or light on for an extended period of time).
- LATCH WITH TIMER
A latch swith turns a device "on" with one activation and the timer turns the device "off."
This is a nice way to encourage repeated switch activation. The timer mode is also nice for environmental control; for example, a user could hit a switch to turn a lamp on for 30 minutes to prepare for bed and the timer would turn it off.
You can buy switches with a timer built in or buy a latch/timer unit so any switch you are using can act as a latch switch with timer.
NOTE:
Some switches you purchase can act as a momentary switch or a latch switch. You also need to consider the function of the device when choosing what switch to use. For example, store-bought toys that you adapt (such as a dancing Elmo or singing Barney) turn off by themselves. Therefore, a latch switch is needed to activate them.
Common Access Modalities
- TOUCH/PRESSURE
Many switches are activated through touch, whether its depressing (pushing) or simply making contact with a switch. You need to consider the size, angle, and sensitivity of a switch when making a selection for someone. All access points should be considered (hands, feet, head, etc.) when determining where to place the switch. Accessing a switch should be comfortable and as easy as possible.
Common touch-activated switches include: button switch, plate switch, saucer switch, or a flexible switch.
- SQUEEZE
Switches that are activated by squeezing pressure include pillow switches, pinch switches, and pneumatic switches attached to squeeze toys. A user can squeeze with their hand or apply pressure with his head or feet.
- VOICE
Voice-activated switches allow a user to vocalize in order to turn a device on. Most voice switches include a sensitivity setting to accomodate to the vocal abilities of a user.
There are many voice activated toys with a voice switch built-in. Or, you can use a voice-activated switch to work any adapted device.
- PUFF/BLOW (PNEUMATIC SWITCH)
Pneumatic switches use air flow to activate a device. A user can puff or blow into a mouthpiece to activate the switch.
- MOVEMENT
If a user is not able to move with purpose or consitency, you may want to consider a motion-sensor switch. The motion sensor eliminates the need for physical contact with the switch.
NOTE:
You can learn more about the numerous types of switches available by exploring the websites of AT Vendors on the Links page.
Below are just some of the many examples of switches available.
Button/Big Red |
Plate Switch |
Saucer Switch |
Flexible Switch |
Roller Switch |
Voice-activated |
Pinch Switch |
Pillow Switch |
Pneumatic Switch |
Motion-activated |
