Customized Handheld Controller Shell via 3D Printing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional game console peripherals, such as controllers and 3D viewing devices, often lack ergonomic comfort, particularly for users with small or large hands, as they are not adjustable and may not fit well, leading to discomfort during use.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for customizing handheld videogame controllers using 3D printing techniques, where the controller shell is tailored to fit individual hand morphologies by adjusting parameters like finger length, thumb arcuate range, and palm diameter, allowing for personalized ergonomic design and repositioning of buttons and joysticks for improved comfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If traditional fixed design controllers are mass produced, then manufacturing cost and complexity are reduced, but ergonomic comfort for users with varying hand sizes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The controller design transitions from a fixed static configuration to a dynamic customizable one. Users can adjust button positions, joystick locations, and grip areas through software configuration and interchangeable components, allowing the controller to adapt to individual hand morphologies while maintaining mass production of the base unit
Solution Approach 2:
The controller is divided into modular components including interchangeable button modules, adjustable joystick positions, and separable grip sections. This segmentation allows individual components to be customized and reconfigured without requiring complete redesign of the entire controller, balancing mass production efficiency with ergonomic customization
2Ease of operation
If adjustable fittings are added to headsets for customization, then ergonomic fit for different users is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The controller uses universal adjustment mechanisms that can accommodate a wide range of hand sizes and morphologies through a single design. Features like adjustable thumbstick positions, reconfigurable button layouts, and adaptable grip areas provide multi-functionality without requiring multiple specialized versions for different user types
3Ease of operation
If buttons and controls are repositioned for better ergonomics, then user comfort is improved, but functional compatibility with standard circuit boards may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses an intermediary software layer and standardized mounting interfaces that mediate between the physical button positions and the circuit board connections. This allows buttons to be repositioned for ergonomic comfort while maintaining electrical and functional compatibility through adaptive software mapping and universal connection standards
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The customized controllers provide enhanced ergonomic fit and comfort for users of varying hand sizes, improving usability and reducing user adaptation challenges, while maintaining functional compatibility with standard circuit boards.
Implementation Method 1
a 3D printer to print the or each modified part of the handheld videogame controller
Data Source
Figure 1A~1C
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3C
AI summary
A method of producing a handheld videogame controller comprises the steps of providing a circuit board of a predetermined fixed size, comprising a plurality of switches at predetermined positions, obtaining measurements of at least a first hand of a user for whom the handheld videogame controller is to be produced, modifying a design of at least a first part of the handheld videogame controller responsive to the measurements, and 3D printing the or each modified part of the handheld videogame controller.