Part G: Button Designs
STEP 1: You’ve learned how to solder, how to program and fly your drone, and how to transform everyday objects into keyboard inputs using the Makey Makey. Now, you’re going to explore how all of that knowledge can be applied to help real people—specifically those with physical limitations—by designing an assistive controller for the drone. Before you start designing, it’s important to understand the power and purpose behind this kind of work. Watch the TED Talk by Tom Heck (shown below), where you’ll see how students just like you created meaningful assistive tech using Makey Makey kits. As you watch, think about what makes a controller accessible, and how design can empower someone else.
STEP 2: Now that you’ve watched the TED Talk and seen the impact of assistive technology, take some time to watch the four videos below that highlight different types of adaptive controllers. These are real-world examples—ranging from commercial devices to DIY builds—showing how people with physical limitations can control games, tools, or devices in creative and empowering ways. As you watch, think critically: How could you recreate something like this using your skills in soldering, drone programming, and the Makey Makey? What switches, gestures, or movements could activate flight commands? Your challenge is to take inspiration from these ideas and start imagining how to design your own custom adaptive drone controller that makes flying more inclusive.
STEP 3: Below are images to spark ideas about how to transform buttons—either by closing Makey Makey switches using conductive materials or by refabbing the push buttons you built on perfboards to make them larger and more accessible for users with physical limitations. These pictures are meant to inspire your thinking, not to be copied exactly. Many of the examples use 3D-printed parts, but your designs don’t have to—foam core, cardboard, plastic caps, or recycled materials can work just as well. Focus on creativity, accessibility, and how your design can make flying a drone possible for more people.
Now that you’ve explored a variety of adaptive button designs, it’s time to create your own! Your goal is to prototype a button system—on paper—that transforms a small tactile push button (like the ones you used on your perfboard) into something that someone with limited hand control or coordination could easily use. Think large surfaces, easy activation, and minimal room for error.
On a sheet of paper, sketch your design. Clearly label the wiring, the materials, and show how it will connect to the Makey Makey. Remember, this is your chance to be creative, practical, and inclusive. Foam core? Cardboard? Recycled bottle caps? Anything goes—as long as it works.
Hint: You’ll be using this design to actually fly your drone later, so design with real use in mind! Once you’re satisfied with your design, upload a picture of your drawing using QR code below. In the “Subject” area, include your first name and/or your team members’ names. Click here to see all uploaded media.
