Optical Encoder for a Game Steering WheelOptical Encoder for a Game Steering WheelMay 05 - 26May 05 - 26

Team members

Sam Dahlke Cpr EPeter Fecteau Cpr EDan Pates EELorenzo Subido EE

Advisors

Dr. James DavisDr. Doug Jacobson

Abstract

Professional race car drivers and serious video game enthusiasts demand a higher level of precision from their video game steering wheel controllers. Thomas Enterprises wishes to create an inexpensive upgrade for their current video game controller products which will allow higher precision and control for their customers. Incorporating optical sensors and upgrading the USB interface circuit board of the current products will allow a direct upgrade for Thomas’ current product line and will deliver the performance demanded by the most serious gamers. The higher resolution and sensitivity of the upgraded components will open Thomas’ products up to a wider market share and bolster their position as a leader in production of video game controllers.

Acknowledgements

•Andrew Bice of Iowa State University’s Center for Industrial Research and Service, for sharing his design of the original USB interface circuit board.

•Dr. Doug Jacobson and Dr. Jim Davis, for their guidance and advice on this project.

Problem Statement

The current design uses potentiometers for the steering wheel and pedal inputs and only recognizes 255 positions. Thomas Enterprises would like a direct replacement for the sensors and interface with a higher resolution of 1024 available positions with 16 function buttons at a maximum cost of $150.

Operating Environment

•Indoors, room temperature ~70°F

•Possibly outdoors under pleasant

weather conditions

•Little to no moisture

•Little dust

Intended Uses and Users

•Serious video game enthusiasts

•Professional race car drivers

•Operators of driving simulators

Assumptions

•Ability to modify existing computer

code

•Have access to original design

specifications

•Upgrade to a new microcontroller

Limitations

•Must have same connections as the

current design

•Optical encoder placement must be

the same as potentiometer

•Circuit board must have similar size

•Must cost less than $150

Introduction Project Requirements

Design Objectives

•Easily upgrade existing units

with new circuit board

•Must be easy to install and use

Expected End Product

•1024 available positions by use of

optical encoders

•USB connection with software driver

•Maintain 16 function buttons

•Detailed documentation

Functional Requirements

•Must work with Windows compatible

computers

•Higher resolution for a more realistic

gaming experience

Design Constraints

•Dimensions need to be the

same as previous design

•Cost effective design

•Must be durable to withstand

the frequent use

Measurable Milestones

•Device functionality

•Software functionality

•Successful operation with software and

computer

•Comprehensive documentation for

product

•Satisfies company’s expectations

Proposed Approach and Considerations

Proposed Approach

The project will be completed in the following phases:

•Problem definition

•Device modeling and design

•Testing

•Documentation

•Demonstration

Technologies Considered

•USB interface with

computer•Optical encoding for

controller input

Testing Considerations

•Controller testing with multiple computers

•Software testing

•Demonstration testing

Estimated Resources and Schedule

Client

David ThomasThomas Enterprises

Current controller design

Personnel efforts Total project costs

Project Schedule

Closing Summary

Racing fans and video gamers demand a more responsive steering wheel controller. This project will improve on an existing design of the Thomas Enterprises’ game controller.

This project will begin with the research of the best alternative for the steering wheel input. The project will consist of product design, testing, documentation, and demonstration to the client.

Lorenzo Subido205 hours

Sam Dahlke213 hours

Dan Pates238 hours

Peter Fecteau200 hours

$10.00

$50.00

$10.00

$60.00

Microcontroller Optical encoder Miscellaneous parts Poster