Optical Encoder for a Game Steering Wheel May Team members Sam DahlkeCpr E Peter FecteauCpr E Dan PatesEE Lorenzo SubidoEE Advisors Dr. James Davis Dr. 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 Thomas Thomas 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 Subido 205 hours Sam Dahlke 213 hours Dan Pates 238 hours Peter Fecteau 200 hours