I received the first structural component for my switch tester today. That means it's time to start on this topic.
Build Objectives:
I) Objective press force measurements
II) Objective travel distance measurements
III) When measuring distance, .02 mm margin of error and .05 mm granularity
IV) When measuring force, .6% margin of error and 1 gf granularity
That results in 80 data points over the course of an MX Switch's advertised 4mm of travel and 160 if the upstroke is measured. I may need to rethink that if the measurements take FOREVER to do.
Build Materials:
I) Drill press conversion kit: ON THE WAY
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Notes -- Materials:
Calipers: These are nicer than I anticipated. The calipers store their position in memory when powered off and automatically power on when movement occurs, meaning I don't need to worry about shutting them down and losing my place in the measurements.
MG2 gauge: $50 for a $500 measurement unit? Yes please. 1 gf is its absolute minimum resolution, but that's fine with me considering the price point and quality.
Rough Build Plan:
I'll use a fine threaded bolt mounted on the drill press' side (across the spot that "splits" open and exposes the spring) to move the lower portion in minute increments, much like 3-D printer axes. The caliper will be attached to the opposite side to measure how far the sides have "split," representing the distance that the press force meter has traveled. I plan to mount the tester below the round bit that holds the drill, on it, or on a modified (read: hacksawed off) version of it. All things considered, a simple project.
Updates:
I'll likely post two updates: one with the build process and one with the finished product (and a fully measured force curve as proof of functionality).
The drill press stand didn't work as intended.