SmashBox
SmashBox Custom Controller
Competitive gaming requires high input speed and accuracy. This controller was fabricated with the intent of increasing repeatability and reducing hand and wrist stress.
Initial Prototyping
Concept was proven using Arduino Uno and bread boarding. Nicohood GameCube API was utilized to manage the communication between Arduino and GameCube.
Confidence was gained by experimentation with mechanical, electrical and software aspects of the system. Initially mounted in cardboard as a low cost prototype.
Arduino Shield Construction
After confidence was gained in the initial prototype, upgraded to a more streamlined solution.
Upgraded to an Arduino Mega for increased number of inputs. A shield was constructed for the Mega to provide a sleak and practical solution. The shield included key design features such as screw terminals for ease of button addition and removal, detatchable cord for ease of transportation and overall minimization of footprint.
Latest Revision
The latest revision is mounted in a plywood housing to provide slightly more rigidity to the controller. The Arduino Mega with custom shield is the primary PCB for the latest system. Additional buttons were added in response to ergonomic and usability needs.
While the SmashBox has evolved over time, there is continued room for improvement. The housing needs to be cleaner and sturdier. In addition, a wider housing will allow for more comfortable spacing of buttons, such that the users elbows are not uncomfortably tucked in. Progress has been made on the SmashBox, there still remains unaddressed usability needs.
