Project Modular: Building an open modular controller for SteamVR

Today's note is one of the most beautiful notes published on this blog in 2022. Actually, it was not written by me.

Last year, Rob Cole, an XR-ergonomics specialist, published a note on this platform, detailing his own experiments to create Project Caliper Plan, i. e. a fully customizable controller for SteamVR. This note quickly went viral and most people wanted to see how these controllers are created.

This year, as a New Year's presentation to you all, he announces the results of the annual formation of Project Modular. Project Modular is the development of a fully modular, comprehensive, open and customizable XR controller. These are supposed to be the dream of XR-Technologies enthusiasts. In this post, we present all the details about it, the long road story of Rob's countless experiments, with long descriptive words and numerous fascinating photos.

Rob's work is amazing and I sincerely believe that it actually deserves the greatest recognition, more than its elemental presence on this website. She deserves this for freezing with reality. I invite you to try to promote his work by giving her the illusion or even by giving her the chance to execute it. I support him and I have no doubt that you will also support him by reading about his work and vision. Successful reading

Project Modular

Rob Cole for SkarredGhost

(Image: Rob Cole)

Introduction

Last year, Tony, known as Skarredghost, was pretty scared when I published my lengthy notes that talked about several months of active work on a modular motion controller, focusing on input options, ergonomic tuning, and ease of repair.

The article went viral and many meetings were held with various companies interested in my controller. They offered a certain amount of petty cash, a certain amount of incomprehensible cryptocurrency, and sections of virtual land for two different meta-fighters, but none would actually fund the pre-production work and create a producible device/assembly.

(Image: Rob Cole)

One January evening, I had a long Zoom meeting with a group of hidden well-known hardware manufacturers. Out of respect for their private lives, my memoirs of this meeting remain foggy, but I basically asked everyone what they wanted in nobility.

For the right morning, for example, I will buy it again for you and the answer to this question is for you.

About two months after the article was published, I received an invitation for the final ZOOM meeting. I was excited about the possibility of the offer, but unfortunately I faced an aggressive lawsuit over the design.

After drawing everything they wanted to avoid the lawsuit, the project was canceled and I was asked to talk about the design anymore.

Nevertheless, there is one side in any cloud, and I suddenly have a new VR system and a ridiculous "Hall of Fame" 3080Ti graphic card that I managed to buy at a low price. i got you.

It was great to be able to raise the frame rate while maintaining the supe r-resolution, and I was happy to use Beacon Tracking again. Finally, I finished "Arizona Sunshine" and played a lot of other games that had been suspended in the Steam library.

Reboot>

Aside from the actual work), I enjoyed a new free life, but because of a certain idea that had been swirling in my head for months, all the familiar hardware jigger had to be sparse.

It's time to do a private job and develop an idea of ​​an unconventional way to make a motion controller. He hoped to keep everything secret, avoiding further legal tricks, and removing the need to spend time to advertise something through social media. Previous projects mean that they responded to emails and tweets.

So what was this new idea then?

Conventional controllers such as Oculus Touch, Valve Index, and HTC are manufactured using relatively thin fles h-injected molded plastic housing and are usually divided into two. It has been said many times that if you pay for the injection molding tool and assembly equipment, the plastic will be very cheap and it will be substantially free.

The remaining internal volume (empty space of the housing) include electronic devices (tracking, operative capabilities, GPIO), power (battery), buzzer sound motor (Haptics), input mechanism (switch, joystick), flex, component connection cable It can be used to store many components.

(Image: Rob Cole)

Eject molding, plastic housing manufacturing, automatic assembly, machine zipper, adhesive tape, hot glue, etc. are installed with components.

The injectio n-type tool is a complicated and expensive machine processing, but can be used to make many useful internal parts, such as reinforcement, support, lag, support, blade, and pipes that support components in the controller.

This is a very elegant solution specializing in mass production, but it is not suitable for small lots because it has a high initial cost and needs to operate a full factory. 3D printing, on the other hand, is too late to support mass production with at least the current printing technology.

The Daikast controller has one major drawback. It is not designed for repair because the housing is thin and the assembly and mounting adhesive are complicated. It is not easy to replace damaged joysticks, batteries and triggers. The small mounting screw is often hidden with an adhesive adhesive, and the replacement of the joystick means losing an electrostatic capacity sensor, and the broken trigger is repaired with an instant adhesive.

Because it is not simple, the cos t-effectiveness of repair is not very high. By the time the product is sent to the repair center, the engineer gets an hourly wage for repair, the parts are used, and the product is returned. Unfortunately, it is often cheaper to put a new controller and throw away the damaged products.

(Image: via Rob Cole, Valve)

The index controller is 139 pounds per piece (free shipping), and repair should be a remaining proposal for any company. Compared to the $ 1, 00 0-dollar smartphone -$ 150 screen, you'll see why the Smash Smash smartphone repair center appeared on many streets and malls.

However, the creation of technical manuals and exchange parts by collaboration between recent Valve and i-Fixit is a major move forward. If you are good at soldering and are not reluctant to open the controller housing, you can certainly repair it. Some users have succeeded by attaching a replacement joystick or new battery.

(Image: Rob Cole)

In my experience, I received RMA many times during the tw o-year EU warranty period as an INDEX release date owner, this was a cause of failure. The joystick has floated, the trigger is not moving, the grip plate has broken, and the controller has been returned, but the same controller has never caused multiple failures.

As an exchange product, I have always received a fresh controller (in fact, it is very easy to find). Later, as we approached the current indicator cycle, the user began to mention that it would actually receive a restored controller, which is considered to be a major improvement in the electrical waste processing project. Over the past two years, my personal limit on electronic device waste (even if it was) has been completely exhausted, and in fact, for all shipments and exchanges from China to the UK via the Netherlands. I was forced to have an unpleasant experience.

This led to Dumas, who immediately should learn the design that provides a small amount of small amounts of details that are subject to failure or accidental damage. If there is an opportunity to easily change the details by Juzer itself or someone who invites this proposal to the country, the number of failed controllers sent to the repair center (in my case, from the UK to the Netherlands) at a huge distance It can be reduced quickly.

The Core Concept

As a candidate for the casting case, I thought of the "core" with an elegant block of the Tundra SteamVR HDK (equipment development kit) and lithiu m-ion batteries.

I was going to find out whether these components could be "packed" into a portable core, a system for attaching the steering wheel, a guard frame (for installing a sensor in an appropriate location), and input components. If the core is used as a structural unit, can these parts "hang" from the core?

(Image: Rob Cole)

In fact, it was possible to introduce HDK and lithiu m-ion battery from inside the structure, and immediately realized that it would be quite small to be small in a small closed hand. Later, as a result of studying several times using a therma l-type plastic or a stamped metal insert (for fasteners), I need a harsh, stronger, lower profile, and as a result, I got inspired. He changed his interest in the assault rifle of the soldiers.

(Image: Rob Cole)

As shown in the image above, unfortunately, the famous "Pikatiny Rail", which is used to attach optical equipment to the assault rifle, is used in past plans to attach "plastic handle" to "rails". I remembered the idea I did. With a stereotype guide, Picatiny, you can attach compatible parts in a few seconds, creating a luxurious ecosystem that collects compatible details from various manufacturers.

The duralumin alloy rails and bolted plastic pins work the same way, with the Tundra HDK and Li-ion battery located closer to the inside of the handle. Now it was time to figure out how to attach the rest of the controller to the handle!

This task quickly came to a conclusion: extend the "rails" to ensure there are mounting points on both ends for all the other parts that cover the tracking system.

Then I built a duralumin mule with a plastic grip to get an idea of ​​the volume and shape of the follower ring that my hand could clamp onto and have an opening in this, and also how these parts could be placed in the system, such as the joystick and the connecting buttons.

(Image: Rob Cole)

The dress is wrapped around the Tundra HDK, and a lot of flex is as a result, I tried to introduce them into the mule to figure out the gaps, but they work like this, running back from the sides of the upper grip and flex, crumbling ring.

(Image: Rob Cole)

Recently, while testing Pimax's Flesh Sword-Controller for the Skarredghost review, I considered the touch panel. As a result, I decided to make a device based on this input mode.

The ill-fated (completely fresh in the box) Steam Controller was offered to the hardware gods and dismantled, covering the trackpad, buttons and triggers.

(Image: Rob Cole)

I returned to the game with renewed enthusiasm and immediately started working on it. In fact, this became the first generation of a modular controller.

Replacing the touchpad-input module for Jaeikika's module should probably be at least a hardware thing. Is it possible to adjust the distance between the handle and the input module for different hands?

Modifying the rail system forced me to think about what it could be like.

“Modular Rail Frame”

It seems to make sense there. The "modular rail frame" can be compared to the "pressure-cased" advanced controllers currently used in VR, such as Oculus Touch and Valve Index (the MFR and IMC controllers of the main pendant of reduction, respectively).

The main function of the modular rail frame design is to ensure the flexibility of the modular system so that various options can be used. Various sizes and shapes can be installed in a few seconds. You can also attach a long belt. Different input options should match different users. For those who use teleport, a decent ful l-size touchpad would be much better. If you like fighting wing, what about D pads? If you want to add a sensor (force) sensor to the lower handle, this is possible. Just screw and connect the cable!

Such changes to the IMC controller are not cheap, as it requires a lot of equipment remodeling, such as pressure casting, manufacturing new tools, and changing assembly lines.

By using the MRF design, you can quickly print and manufacture new modular components, reduce the execution time for customers. New games can be released with a specially produced MRF component to link with the game code.

The broken parts of the MRF controller can be removed and replaced without the need for difficult disassembly: Remove some bolts, remove the connector, and then remove everything. The software allows you to configure controller models according to your preference, such as input options, colors, and remodeling.

Repair is used by heat guns, plastic pliers, and small Torx drivers, especially in the first repair adventure, and should not be scarier than the disassembly of the IMC controller, which requires hard hands and strong nerves.

Now that I get a specific thing from my sharp ideas called MRF-controller, how to assemble it, and the most important thing is to think about what size can be made. The intensive work of the month was spent.

By using the concept of MRF design, a large amount of initial manufacturing costs that had to use complex pressurized casting tools to produce the controller could be avoided. Is it possible to make this using nuts, bolts, gaskets, and in some cases, plastic details made of 3D printers on aluminum rails? If it is possible to assemble a prototype that works manually in my workshop, otherwise it may be possible to at least a limited scale. It's time to check it!

Development

This time, it became much easier to understand how to assemble the material quickly, and in principle, it became possible to quickly from the first or second time. This is due to the experience of working with some materials and tools, and thanks to the confidence that was born last year by solving similar problems many times.

Time was always a problem, my main business was always busy and not enough. Fortunately, I was able to take a few weeks of training at the end of the year.

In addition, I had to do many things in a short time by dividing my work in detail, and counting the time to dry glue and paint while doing other jobs.

At first glance, I will introduce some photos taken during the development of the 2022 project modular.

(Image: Rob Cole)

At the end of this summer, we were finally ready to assemble a prototype. The plan was to install Tundra Steam VR HDK, write "JSON", run the tracking system, start adding input via the GPIO system, and see what will happen!

The first prototype was specially designed based on the input components collected from HDK Tundra, thin lithiu m-ion battery, and many game pad controllers. I always used COTS. Because they already exist and can reduce the cost and risk of installation.

In particular, if there are other "beautiful details" people, they already have a factory and have solved the production of the parts a long time before you come up with the order. If this is not i n-house development, most factories will be happy to take money from new customers or have similar products that have been minor at the right price.

Speaking of components, I was always thinking about that, as the HDK provided by Tundra was not released for a while and it was unknown whether it would reappear. Tundra has gained a good reputation in the Steam VR tracker, indicating that if the number of orders is probably sufficient, despite the lack of components that began with Cobid Pandemic, it can be worth it. < SPAN> This time, it became much easier to understand how to assemble the material quickly, and in principle, it became possible to quickly from the first or second time. This is due to the experience of working with some materials and tools, and thanks to the confidence that was born last year by solving similar problems many times.

Time was always a problem, my main business was always busy and not enough. Fortunately, I was able to take a few weeks of training at the end of the year.

Project Modular V.1 unboxing

(Image: Rob Cole)

At first glance, I will introduce some photos taken during the development of the 2022 project modular.

(Image: Rob Cole)

At the end of this summer, we were finally ready to assemble a prototype. The plan was to install Tundra Steam VR HDK, write "JSON", run a tracking system, start adding input via GPIO system, and see what will happen!

(Image: Rob Cole)

In particular, if there are other "beautiful details" people, they already have a factory and have solved the production of the parts a long time before you come up with the order. If this is not i n-house development, most factories will be happy to take money from new customers or have similar products that have been minor at the right price.

Speaking of components, I was always thinking about that, as the HDK provided by Tundra was not released for a while and it was unknown whether it would reappear. Tundra has gained a good reputation in the Steam VR tracker, indicating that if the number of orders is probably sufficient, despite the lack of components that began with Cobid Pandemic, it can be worth it. This time, it became much easier to understand how to assemble the material quickly, and in principle, it became possible to quickly from the first or second time. This is due to the experience of working with some materials and tools, and thanks to the confidence that was born last year by solving similar problems many times.

Rails

Time was always a problem, my main business was always busy and not enough. Fortunately, I was able to take a few weeks of training at the end of the year.

In addition, I had to do many things in a short time by dividing my work in detail, and counting the time to dry glue and paint while doing other jobs.

(Image: Rob Cole)

(Image: Rob Cole)

At the end of this summer, we were finally ready to assemble a prototype. The plan was to install Tundra Steam VR HDK, write "JSON", run a tracking system, start adding input via GPIO system, and see what will happen!

(Image: Rob Cole)

In particular, if there are other "beautiful details" people, they already have a factory and have solved the production of the parts a long time before you come up with the order. If this is not i n-house development, most factories will be happy to take money from new customers or have similar products that have been minor at the right price.

Frame

Speaking of components, I was always thinking about that, as the HDK provided by Tundra was not released for a while and it was unknown whether it would reappear. Tundra has gained a good reputation in the Steam VR tracker, indicating that if the number of orders is sufficient, despite the shortage of components that began with Cobid Pandemic, it can be valuable.

(Image: Rob Cole)

(Image: Rob Call)

The project modular V. 1-controller is decomposed in a 100 % reddened cardboard box, and each component is in a labeled individual package to ensure safety during transportation. I am. Once the controller is assembled, you can select a package and apply a box to store the controller.

Grips

I took out eight miscellaneous packages from the box:

If you take out these items from the package, you can see more details.

(Image: Rob Cole)

The higher substance images are more detailed, but for example, this will definitely be useful for the attributes of the joints of this unnatural movement, for example. Let's try.

(Image: Rob Cole)

The basic base is a duralumin alloy rail, and the holes for attaching the fastener are divided into "upper rails" and "lower rails".

Haptic hand strap

The image below shows the Tandora HDK in front of the rail, and the z e-bolt zipper on the front and rear is completely visible. The screw holes below the side of each shaft are used to attach the plastic handle. During this time, the restructuring of the development controller did not stop and suffered from the wear of the cut, but after that, he encountered an iron insert to ensure durability with slightly lighter weight.

(Image: Rob Call)

The image below is a tandola HDK, which sets up the first version of the upper rail with VRB tape support.

(Image: Rob Cole)

(Image: Rob Call)

The Roa Guide is not shown here, but in version 1, it is considered a part of the rore handle and has a catch sensor that is fired directly in the iron guide (this will be described later).

The rim connecting the rails is also a structural support, but also the mounting surface of the optical sensor of the tracking system. The rim is made of recycled duralumin alloy (7000 series), can be folded into a skeleton structure, and has a fixed point for attaching the frame to the rail and tracking head.

(Image: Rob Call)

(Image: Rob Cole)

This special shape has a buil t-in flexible cable for the optical sensor of the tracking system, does not need to disturb the user in the input area, and can be widely adjusted based on the input control components. Therefore, I repeated the prototype many times and arrived.

The grip is attached to the guide and is supported by the four bolts of the secret head. The grip is a plane for human hand interaction, so that users can comfortably find the controller, grip, and use finger movements and grip to enter various controllers. The handle can safely store parts, cables, and optical sensors inside the controller.

The top handle is a simple plastic hea t-constructed product with two plate bolts. The front bolt is also longer because it also serves as a mounting space on the front of the wrist strap. The bolt in the rear is slightly shorter and plays a role in adjusting the rear of the wrist strap (this is described later).

Input pod

(Image: Rob Call)

In the bottom handle of version 1, a pressur e-type grip sensor is screwed inside, the cable is pulled to the inside of the controller so that it can communicate with the GPIO system.

(Image: Rob Cole)

The lower handle uses the same style and volume bolt as the upper handle, but the shortest length is used so that the battery does not leak inside the rail where the battery is located. The handle sensor is fixed with two small bolts of the secret head, and can be removed for replacement and repair, but it is necessary to find the V. 1 system rail frame.

In terms of grips, the grip plays a second important role. Fix the tactile belt to the controller body to adjust the slope angle and length of the belt according to the needs of the user.

By using an elastic hand strap, when playing for a long time, "experience" that does not require input, or throwing a game object, the controller is comfortably operated without always holding the main body. You can.

(Image: Rob Cole)

(Image: Rob Call)

The front part of the belt can be adjusted depending on the inclination angle. To do so, you only need to loosen the bolt of the upper handle, rotate the belt, adjust the exit angle, press it back again while pressing it against the upper guide.

The rear of the hand strap is compressed and enhanced between the back of the upper handle and the upper guide, so it is easy to adjust the length, just as loosening or tightening the corresponding bolt to fix the key. You can. If you pull the belt to your favorite length and tighten the bolt, the belt will no longer come off the space.

For this reason, the belt is very normal, and it is easy to adjust and replace it when installed, and attach a small hatched module that slides on the belt and connects to a click connector unit inside the controller (not shown here). It also works as a point. A fairly small but powerful ERM Haptic Motor (3Nm or less) is attached to a molded plastic housing with a protective shield made of carbon fiber and durable rubber base for skin contact at the top.

(Image: Rob Cole)

(Image: Rob Cole)

Another exciting discovery is that the tactile sensor is separated from the tracking system to improve durability. As pointed out in Index Reddit a while ago: < SPAN> By using an elastic hand strap, lon g-time play, "experience" that does not require input, or throwing game objects, etc. At the time of operation, the controller can be operated comfortably without holding the body.

The hand strap is a simple one with a heated cloth thickened by heat, and has a small hole for the front axis of the top handle. The axis functions as a fulcrum and hinge for adjusting the angle of the belt.

(Image: Rob Call)

The front part of the belt can be adjusted depending on the inclination angle. To do so, you only need to loosen the bolt of the upper handle, rotate the belt, adjust the exit angle, press it back again while pressing it against the upper guide.

(Image: Rob Cole)

For this reason, the belt is very normal, and it is easy to adjust and replace it when installed, and attach a small hatched module that slides on the belt and connects to a click connector unit inside the controller (not shown here). It also works as a point. A fairly small but powerful ERM Haptic motor (3 nm or less) is attached to a molded plastic house with a protective shield made of carbon fiber and durable rubber base for skin contact.

When I made a test lava called "Squirrel" in last year, I found that a lo w-output tactile impulse could be sent directly to the middle bone of the hand to guarantee a very strong stimulus in my hand, but at the same time. (Compared to introducing multiple large motors integrated into the body). This is very interesting to avoid the rapid discharge of the battery while using a tactile device.

Tracking ring

(Image: Rob Cole)

Another exciting discovery is that the tactile sensor is separated from the tracking system to improve durability. As pointed out in Index Reddit a while ago: By using an elastic hand strap, when performing lon g-term play, "experience" that does not require input, or throwing game objects. , You can operate the controller comfortably without holding the body.

(Image: Rob Cole)

(Image: Rob Call)

(Image: Rob Cole)

The rear of the hand strap is compressed and enhanced between the back of the upper handle and the upper guide, so it is easy to adjust the length, just as loosening or tightening the corresponding bolt to fix the key. You can. If you pull the belt to your favorite length and tighten the bolt, the belt will no longer come off the space.

For this reason, the belt is very normal, and it is easy to adjust and replace it when installed, and attach a small hatched module that slides on the belt and connects to a click connector unit inside the controller (not shown here). It also works as a point. A fairly small but powerful ERM Haptic Motor (3Nm or less) is attached to a molded plastic housing with a protective shield made of carbon fiber and durable rubber base for skin contact at the top.

Tracking head

When I made a test lava called "Squirrel" in last year, I found that a lo w-output tactile impulse could be sent directly to the middle bone of the hand to guarantee a very strong stimulus in my hand, but at the same time. (Compared to introducing multiple large motors integrated into the body). This is very interesting to avoid the rapid discharge of the battery while using a tactile device.

(Image: Rob Cole)

Another exciting discovery is that the tactile sensor is separated from the tracking system to improve durability. As I pointed out on Index Reddit a while ago:

(Image: Rob Cole)

The haptic motor is no longer installed in the plastic housing of the controller (vibration of the entire structure) but swims on the hand strap, so the combination of a potential improvement in tracking under all conditions and less energy consumption is an interesting new development 😉.

To ensure a useful input range in a compact and adjustable case, there is a self-contained input unit, and in this version there is a high-precision analog mini-bend, which can be adjusted from the bottom of the input unit to 5 It can be quickly replaced by loosening two small bolts.

(Image: Rob Cole)

The sliding ring, metal construction, and high-tech pots (not made by Alps) allow for ultra-sensitive and accurate input with improved return-to-center accuracy. The joystick is designed for 2 million uses, so if you're worried, take the time. Not bad.

Most importantly, when we tested this joystick with VR games such as Aircar and Project Cars 2, we saw a big difference in the "steak feel" compared to current motion controllers, giving us a more accurate, direct, and less blurry feeling from the stick movements.

Cable routing

The case also has four high-quality input buttons, A, B, and system industry standard, as well as an additional input button determined by the user and simply called "X". This gives the controller an additional input channel, similar to pressing the touchpad on an index controller used in many games.

(Image: Rob Cole)

V.1 Assembly time?

(Image: Rob Cole)

The input button on the sliding ring compresses a hig h-quality micros switcher placed on the sturdy support plate of the duralumin alloy, and is attached to the bottom of the input pod molded plastic housing.

By using a hig h-quality micros switcher, the "click" sound when pressed is pretty, but it does not sound much. On the left side of the input pod in the photo, there is a trigger and a mounting bracket (input pod).

The trigger itself is a mechanical device that does not contain electronic components, is equipped with a durable screw for adjusting and moving rotation, and is adjusted with a 2mm button. This special trigger was created as a steam controller share and was "conformed" to this application.

The stroke adjustment screw at the base of the trigger is combined with a microved switch installed under the case of the input unit. When the user presses the trigger, the screw contacts the microscope and the input effect is obtained. By adjusting the height of the screw (with a hexagonal support), the contact between the trigger and the microplane can be wound or slower according to the preference.

(Image: Rob color)

(Image: Rob Cole)

Then, in order to kill the need for a narrow setting based on ergonomics, the input unit and trigger move to 15mm back, return to the iron bracket that supports the regulation of the single button with a hexagonal key. The distance between the control fabric and the fix can be literally set according to fingers and personal preferences and personal preferences.

It was because the restriction distance was required, but it saves the front share of the controller in order to increase the distance between the front axis and the follower head due to the small extension of the controller and the small extension of the controller. It will be possible to grow.

After loosening the front axle bolt a little, it is possible to rotate the mount bracket around the front axle, which can actually make the steering component of the steering wheel (bolt tighten (bolt tighten). To fix it to a predetermined position before it must be done. In other words, by introducing the joystick inclined angle, it can be advantageous for a large finger.

Project Modular v.2 unboxing

(Image: Rob Cole)

(Image: Rob Cole)

The mounting bracket is a durable chromolybdench steel full piece that can bend carefully with your request with vise support and grip, giving users auxiliary options. Long axis, shor t-axis bolts, all kinds of spacers, as well as the introduction of all kinds of fitting, you may need to add a little modification to introduce the controller in an appropriate space.

(Image: Rob Cole)

This small thing made of molded plastic is linked to the protective housing, all light-checker is placed in it, and it is explained by the HDK through the controller-housing in a 3D point model. It is laid in an individual installation space.

The sensor is protected by the influence of the media formed by the circle of all spaces in the sensor position and the environment around the tip. It is provided to ensure the perfect view of the sensor and prevent direct hits that can lead to sensor damage and unnecessary movements.

(Image: Rob Cole)

As you can see in the higher image, the truckning ring is attached to the frame with the support of four small bolts (only three shown here), and specified by hand to support the hexagonal spanner. Next, these bolts reinforce the tracking ring adjacent to Rama Wasma, leave an orderly conclusion for installing sensors, and maintain inflics at a distance from the outside world. As a result, the inside is comfortable in the hands and very high in the event of success.

(Image: Rob Call)

The optical detector is attached with VRB support and adhesive tape, and surrenders through a small "patch hole", which is strategically placed on a truckning ring plane, like a detector. As you can see in the image above, place the removable (accidentally damaged) sensor in the required location, and return the flexible wire almost through the patch hole and return it from the inside of the tracking ring to the modular band area.

Production uses special plastic optical windows, and ultimately, the "next ring module on the bolt" with one connector for control and repair is very common. Masu.

Like a full ring, the tracking head provides simple molding plastic small pieces that guarantee a physiological structure for a series of optical sensors that provide the frontal lobes of the controller.

With the introduction of an independent head, feed blocks can be adjusted. For example, for a clear manual option, the adjustment of up to 15 mm guarantees the front position of the input block that moves back and forth on the slide mount.

Building the RAILS

By changing the front part of the controller with a long protrusion for tracking heads, the adjustment range can be expanded (for example, 20 to 25 mm).

(Image: Rob Cole)

As you can see in the image above, the tracking head is attached with two medium bolts. It is glued to the frame and is cast from the frame structure.

The V. 1 controller is equipped with a shoc k-resistant bumper that uses a light duralumin alloy thick plate. Reduces damage to the controller in the case of front collision and protects optical detectors from individual damage. It is cut according to the size of the optical sensor, eliminating unnatural shapes.

(Image: Rob Cole)

Finn, molded into tracking heads, has inherited the theme of protecting the optical sensor so that it does not hit walls and furniture in the play area. As for manufacturing, it can be used to introduce plastic on optical windows, such as tracking rings, and use the best version of the Tracking Head Module, a single connector that is easy to assemble and repair. You can do it.

While testing and moving, I immediately realized that this new controller system with separate tracking heads still protected users from any hit in the playfield, and for many years. My hands did not get dirty with blood. There were almost no issues or concerns about the intensity of the controller, but you need to be careful because furniture and PC screens will make a hole in the entry!

Finally, we organized the cable on the controller and put some cable management equipment in a bag to avoid unnecessary interference on the user's hands. The blue and yellowish cable shown here is a relative display that helps the cable route and what they actually need to correctly arrange them.

(Image: Rob Cole)

By changing the front part of the controller with a long protrusion for tracking heads, the adjustment range can be expanded (for example, 20 to 25 mm).

(Image: Rob Cole)

As you can see in the image above, the tracking head is attached with two medium bolts. It is glued to the frame and is cast from the frame structure.

There’s a GPIO CUBE

(Image: Rob Cole)

(Image: Rob Cole)

Finn, molded into tracking heads, has inherited the theme of protecting the optical sensor so that it does not hit walls and furniture in the play area. As for manufacturing, it can be used to introduce plastic on optical windows, such as tracking rings, and use the best version of the Tracking Head Module, a single connector that is easy to assemble and repair. You can do it.

While testing and moving, I immediately realized that this new controller system with separate tracking heads still protected users from any hit in the playfield, and for many years. My hands did not get dirty with blood. There were almost no issues or concerns about the intensity of the controller, but you need to be careful because furniture and PC screens will make a hole in the entry!

Finally, we organized the cable on the controller and put some cable management equipment in a bag to avoid unnecessary interference on the user's hands. The blue and yellowish cable shown here is a relative display that helps the cable route and what they actually need to correctly arrange them.

Fitting the Plastics

(Image: Rob color) The introduction of an independent head allows for feed block adjustment. For example, for a clear manual option, the adjustment of up to 15 mm guarantees the front position of the input block that moves back and forth on the slide mount.

(Image: Rob Cole)

(Image: Rob Cole)

As you can see in the image above, the tracking head is attached with two medium bolts. It is glued to the frame and is cast from the frame structure.

The V. 1 controller is equipped with a shoc k-resistant bumper that uses a light duralumin alloy thick plate. Reduces damage to the controller in the case of front collision and protects optical detectors from individual damage. It is cut according to the size of the optical sensor, eliminating unnatural shapes.

Fitting the Tracking Ring

(Image: Rob Cole)

Finn, molded into tracking heads, has inherited the theme of protecting the optical sensor so that it does not hit walls and furniture in the play area. As for manufacturing, it can be used to introduce plastic on optical windows, such as tracking rings, and use the best version of the Tracking Head Module, a single connector that is easy to assemble and repair. You can do it.

While testing and moving, I immediately realized that this new controller system with separate tracking heads still protected users from any hit in the playfield, and for many years. My hands did not get dirty with blood. There were almost no issues or concerns about the intensity of the controller, but you need to be careful because furniture and PC screens will make a hole in the entry!

(Image: Rob Cole)

Fitting the Neck

(Image: Rob Cole)

Initially, he was planning to demonstrate the assembly of the V. 1 controller using Tundra SteamVR HDK, but noticed that it was ridiculous during the assembly practice. When I first planned how much space I needed to connect the USB-C cable, I made a little wrong calculation.

(Image: Rob Cole)

In the HDK Tundra, the USB-C port was on the front (when attaching the left controller), and the HDK was attached inside the controller, so it was difficult to support the external cable and access the port.

Fitting the Tracking Head

The opening was only 1, 5mm (it was close but not), and it was not possible to connect USB cable for SteamVR integration and calibration to HDK. HDK cannot be moved further back, for example, GPIO bend is pressed against the backrail and GPIO connection is unable to connect.

(Image: Rob Cole)

So, let me introduce the demo images of the Modular V. 1 controller, how I got to the controller, and how I achieved this work. In this case, you will have learned a serious task!

Fitting the Input Module and Trigger

(Image: Rob Cole)

For example, at this point, I would like to think that it means to redo the entire assembly from scratch and change the dimensions in order to solve the access problem of the USB cable. However, as a solo developer, it is painful to hear bitches during the third cup of coffee before breakfast.

Immediately after I made a terrible discovery, I modified myself. For example, as with any obstacle on the road to success, I had a chance to improve if I spent time and effort.

After a few months of hard work, including many early mornings, many more cups of coffee, and endless hours of pretty intense and unchanging work, the V. 2 controller monster is finished and ready to be taken out of the box.

(Image: Rob Cole)

I opened the 100% recycled box and found a bunch of differently packaged parts. I arranged them on the workbench for easier identification. This is exactly what you would get if you received it in a "kit" form, but it would be possible to provide a ready-made product with continental assembly and repair services.

(Image: Rob Cole)

(Image: Rob Cole)

As I made the two controllers, I started thinking about how I could prepare them and whether it would be possible for anyone to explore this idea. As a result, a new and authentic fixed idea was born for manufacturing MRF controllers.

Most notable are the rails, which are longer in length and slightly narrower in width. Iron threaded inserts bonded to the aluminum and knurled nylon spacers on top of each insert ensure a secure fit for each handle. The threaded inserts prevent damage when repeatedly tightening and loosening the handle bolts, even for somewhat clumsy users.

Fitting the grips and the strap

(Image: Rob Cole)

The top rail comes with a duralumin alloy mounting plate for the Tundra HDK, which is easy to glue to the plate and is supported by durable 3M VRB adhesive tape. This allows you to literally create a systematic fusion by slightly modifying the initial contact state and hardening immediately (it can be peeled off quite precisely with a scalpel).

The HDK mounting plate is secured by two small bolts with secret heads, allowing the plate to be removed without removing the HDK in case of repair or replacement.

The lower bar has a small touch sensor with a ribbon cable to connect to the GPIO, as seen in the image above. The touch sensor protrudes from the connector on the lower handle, allowing the user to easily control the input without relying on the handle itself.

(Image: Rob Cole)

*By using the "holder" (inactive approach) for different modular components, you can create different components at different timings, according to detailed obtains and skills. I'm neither a mechanical engineer nor an electronics expert, so some modular V2 controllers have a component that is modified or changed between pr e-production.

Assembled

Finally, the bottom rail works as a lithiu m-ion battery holder. This battery is installed on a delicate VRB tape, only wrap the electronic tape around the battery and rails several times and fix it firmly (unlike tape and clamps, it does not cause physiological interference. yeah).

From the rail, you can see all the details of the box as shown in the image below:

Hand fit session

(Image: Rob Cole)

• When you start with the bolt of the rail shaft, the long bolt is inserted into the corresponding hole on the front end of the upper rail, and an elegant washer is placed under the head to protect the duralumin surface. Inside the rails, the spring washer and the flat washer fit well after the assembly is completed, and a slight manufacturing error can be considered.
• Proposal of "Rigid Mount" at the front of the frame, passed bolts through frame eye, aluminum alloy spacer, input block mount bracket, and additional spacer, and the bottom washer and rock nut. ・ Attach the rail. It can be easily tightened with a hexagonal wrench, but it is recommended to hold a stop nut with a small spanner and tighten it quietly (3nm when using a torx pan).
• (Image provision: Rob Cole)
• Using duralumin spacers and iron rings, the front feed block iron bracket is simple and effectively installed. The super simple < Span> touch sensor itself can be removed in a few seconds by loosening the two small mounting bolts and separating the touch cable from the GPIO module. This specific block is regarded as "holder"*, has a standard size and ribbon cable for lo w-cost rea l-time parts, which can "connect" to a GPIO module for fit testing and distance testing.

*By using the "holder" (inactive approach) for different modular components, you can create different components at different timings, according to detailed obtains and skills. I'm neither a mechanical engineer nor an electronics expert, so some modular V2 controllers have a component that is modified or changed between pr e-production.

Finally, the bottom rail works as a lithiu m-ion battery holder. This battery is installed on a delicate VRB tape, only wrap the electronic tape around the battery and rails several times and fix it firmly (unlike tape and clamps, it does not cause physiological interference. yeah).

From the rail, you can see all the details of the box as shown in the image below:

(Image: Rob Cole)

(Image: Rob Cole)

Proposal of "Rigid Mount" at the front of the frame, passed bolts through frame eye, aluminum alloy spacer, input block mount bracket, and additional spacer, and the bottom washer and rock nut. ・ Attach the rail. It can be easily tightened with a hexagonal wrench, but it is recommended to hold a stop nut with a small spanner and tighten it quietly (3nm when using a torx pan).

(Image provision: Rob Cole)

Using duralumin spacers and iron rings, the front feed block iron bracket is simple and effectively installed. The super simple touch sensor itself can be removed in a few seconds by loosening the two small mounting bolts and separating the touch cable from the GPIO module. This specific block is regarded as "holder"*, has a standard size and ribbon cable for lo w-cost rea l-time parts, which can "connect" to a GPIO module for fit testing and distance testing.

*By using the "holder" (inactive approach) for different modular components, you can create different components at different timings, according to detailed obtains and skills. I'm neither a mechanical engineer nor an electronics expert, so some modular V2 controllers have a component that is modified or changed between pr e-production.

Finally, the bottom rail works as a lithiu m-ion battery holder. This battery is installed on a delicate VRB tape, only wrap the electronic tape around the battery and rails several times and fix it firmly (unlike tape and clamps, it does not cause physiological interference. yeah).

(Image: Rob Cole)

(Image: Rob Cole)

When you start with the bolt of the rail shaft, the long bolt is inserted into the corresponding hole on the front end of the upper rail, and an elegant washer is placed under the head to protect the duralumin surface. Inside the rails, the spring washer and the flat washer fit well after the assembly is completed, and a slight manufacturing error can be considered.

Proposal of "Rigid Mount" at the front of the frame, passed bolts through frame eye, aluminum alloy spacer, input block mount bracket, and additional spacer, and the bottom washer and rock nut. ・ Attach the rail. It can be easily tightened with a hexagonal wrench, but it is recommended to hold a stop nut with a small spanner and tighten it quietly (3nm when using a torx pan).

Next steps – SteamVR Integration

(Image provision: Rob Cole)

(Image: Rob Cole)

By adding or pulling spacers between rails, the height of the MRF adjuster can be increased or decreased, and it is considered an effective method to support XS and XL arms. In this case, shortening or long axle bolt creates space for handles and other parts.

The only limit on the height of the minimum rail is the height of the internal electronic device and the battery stack. Most handle sizes can get what you need by introducing different handle sizes.

(Image: Rob Cole)

Conclusions

This process is repeated with the rear axle bolt and spacer, and this iron and plastic system, which is considered to be the heart of the modular rail frame controller system, will be completed.

(Image: Rob Call)

As you can see in the image above, at the bottom of the controller is a small cube hidden between the top rail and the bottom rail. There is no doubt that this is a tribute to the famous "Unity Cube", but this widget includes the necessary functions. In this image, the touch sensor is screwed by the bottom conductor, and the ribbon cable is connected to a small cube via the connector.

(Image provision: Rob Cole)

(Image: Rob Cole)

The connectors of the haptic belt are facing backwards and can wire the power cable along the curve of the follower. All other connectors are facing forward, with a fairly thick strip connected the GPIO of the cube and the GPIO connector of the Tundra HDK at the bottom.

The current GPIO cube is a mere blank cube, but has a connector that is appropriate for the surface implementation, and the buil t-in microcontroller is a cube ensures the true proximity to such a substance. The ribbon cable can be inserted in the plane socket, the cable wiring can be very accurate and ready for the work device.

To create a GPIO cube, you need the support of an electronic engineering expert, which is far beyond my abilities. Is it possible for experts like Tundra Labs to provide this in combination with STEAM VR device and tracking sensor pragin?

As shown in the image below, placing the kit on a comfortable wooden table can accurately express how Modular V. 2 is mixed. The GPIO cube is already installed and is not displayed as a different thing.

(Image: Rob Cole)

The money

The direction of the tracking ring for the frame has become easier to understand, but there is a completely new molding plastic called Neck.

Neck has two additional installation points for optical sensors that function, for example, as a housing to protect an optical sensor passing through the front of the tracking head, and has a direction and position that cannot be realized only by tracking itself. there is.

(Image: Rob Cole)

It is very easy to attach the trucking ring, just press the frame, combine the position of the central fixed bolt, and start tightening the bolt with a 2mm hexagon wrench.

In the case of Tandora HDK with sensor Frex, pass the sensor through the ring from the window, carefully lift the ring on the frame to start installation.

After attaching the first bolt to the center mount, add the remaining three bolts, tighten the bolt completely and secure the washer to the frame. The iron insert with a screwed mountain on the frame functions as a fixed point of these bolts, and realizes a certain installation that is hard to damage when mounting or moving.

• (Image: Rob Call)
• The neck is quickly attached to the frame with two small bolts. This bolt is screwed into the side of the frame and the iron screw hole at the top. Similar to the iron insert used for full ring, it is resistant to damage when installation or at the time of resetting.
• In Tandola HDK, the coil of the tracker head sensor (and 50 % tracker ring/ neck front) passes through a lo w-bottom relief channel formed from inside the neck to protect the coil from mounting bolts and other restrictions. It flows. The two optical sensors on the neck are the last specified, all of which leak from the inside of the window, like ful l-rings and ful l-hea d-head sensor compartments. There is a possibility that you will be frayed.
• (Image: Rob Cole)
• In order to fix the neck to the chamber, first slowly tighten the short M3 bolt, then specify a long M3 bolt for the mounting at the top, and finally tighten both and fix the neck to the frame.
• The tracking head device is still normal, using two giant titanium M5 bolts and washer pairs. In the image below, the head is attached to the bolt support, the spring washer (an additional spacer on the left side) is attached, the head is adjusted to the front part of the frame, and the bolt is tightened and strictly engaged. Is shown.
• (Image: Rob Call)
• Sensory flex can be inserted into the head before this step (be careful when growing up to a prescribed position), and can be inserted from the hole in the head after installation.
• The trigger is a special shape and is a completely new developed product with a finger rest on the front trigger / lamp. This allows you to easily find and save the good condition of the trigger, or put your finger on the lamp while playing the beat saver to avoid contact with the trigger and unnecessary movements.
• In the recent Pimax Sword controller test, I used this unusual grip while playing Beat Sabre. I think it's a good plus to have a space that allows you to ensure the controller when you don't use control parts.

The new trigger block is an iron axis pin that can be pushed out using a small hexagon wrench, which can be completely assembled. Trigger blades can also be replaced, can be replaced or used as options for other users. You can also easily cut with a metal file or sandpaper!

High rigid iron springs guarantee the return action, and the tension can be adjusted with a hexagon wrench according to the user's preference. Like the modular V. 1, the trigger contains a lower contact bolt that operates the microscope at the bottom of the input module (photos are taken before installation).

(Image provision: Rob Cole)

Input modules and triggers are not difficult, but the first one can have a problem. Attach the input module to the iron bracket on the front of the controller frame. Push against the bracket and lower the trigger into that space. The trigger is fixed with one bolt and gray spring washer, so it is easy to screw it into the trigger before assembling.

An open standard?

(Image: Rob Cole)

Use a spanner to quietly turn the bolt until you reach a metal insert with a screw at the bottom of the input module. Please keep turning until you feel a slight resistance. This is the compression of the plastic spacer. You can now adjust the position of the input module and trigger for the handle.

When the position is determined, fix the bolt. At the time of production, this mechanism is planned to be redesigned as a more durable one, but the prototype provides a strong platform for installing controls that can be adjusted in a few seconds.

After attaching this, slide the input pod ribbon cable to the inside from the gap on the front of the grip and connect it to the GPIO cube on the back.

Grip and strap coexist and are installed at the same time. If the strap is not used for the controller, remove the strap and slide the grip directly to the rail mount.

(Image: Rob Cole)

Lift the handle on the rail, slowly tighten the front bolt without tightening too strongly. Just rotate the belt and then tighten the bolt to adjust the angle of the belt away from the controller.

Finally, lay the belt along the tracking ring curve and fix it with the shorter rear bolt. In this example, a haaptic module is attached to the power cable along the same curve.

(Image: Rob Cole)

Hold the loose edge of the belt, pass through the flat opening behind the bolt, as shown in the image above, between the back of the handle and the guide. When the length of the belt is determined, tighten the bolt and fix it. If you have a bigger hand, you can use all the length of the belt, but it is recommended that you cut the belt for smaller hands.

After many pages and many photos, we will introduce the partially assembled modular V2 controllers. This prototype "Crawler" lacks only the tandola HDK and lithiu m-ion battery attached to the end of this article.

Thanks!!

(Image: Rob Cole)

Quickly customize the v. 2 modular controller ergonomics

Input block and trigger: 15mm before and after, rotation, height for handle

Flip: Bolt-on flip for different hand sizes, textures, shapes, etc.

Hand strap: Strap inclination angle (relative to the front of the handle) and strap length.

Rail: Height adjustment for short and long bolts to accommodate special hands (XS and XL).

Joystick, buttons, triggers, straps, all prescriptions can be tested - take the Modular V2 controller for a "test drive" or suitable hand, for example, how everything works automatically.

Share this with other innovators

• After installing a small wooden bar with a weight similar to the HDK and battery between the rails, give it a similar appeal to the controller. Just try a wide range of movements and poses that would be possible to arrange during a room-scale VR session, to get a good feel.
• Is it possible to realize the elements of management? Is nothing to be gained? What is the weight? What is the inertia when moving? Are the triggers in the right place? Is it possible to press the auxiliary button with the end of a giant finger? How do you operate the index controller with the other hand?
• The opening and closing is very good, the hand itself turns to the parts of the control. There is almost no barrier or gap work between opening and closing, in fact, it feels very nice. My finger naturally falls on the sensor sensor, but the handle on the underside prevents random actuation (it would be possible to predict the threshold adjustable in software).
• (Image: Rob Cole)
• The trigger works perfectly, and since it is located in the same part as my index finger, repeated frisky-presses are made confidently but without force. There is almost no side-to-side movement, vibration or creaking, and the trigger knife is quite tough.
• I tried adjusting the spring tension, and the trigger becomes even stiffer, which could be great for powerful hands or those who like expensive power stress. With the spring tension at a minimum, the trigger progression is prepared and is no longer low and actually hurts, for example, during long sessions.