Sauron: Stick a camera inside a 3D printed game controller and make it work

What is it about?

3D printing has a special capability: because we have a virtual model, we can simulate what will happen with the physical object BEFORE we print it. In this case, we built a tool that uses this capability to make video game controllers (or other input devices, like computer mice). They are entirely made of plastic, except for a single camera attached to the back which can "watch" everything that a user does. We use simulation to make sure the camera will be able to see all the buttons, sliders, dials, and other components in the final object, so the behaviour is guaranteed.

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Photo by Oli Woodman on Unsplash

Photo by Oli Woodman on Unsplash

Why is it important?

This enables prototyping interactive devices faster, cheaper, and more easily than before. Instead of needing to wire up a bunch of switches and microcontrollers inside a passive "shell" in order to create a functional prototype, Sauron lets designers focus on the form, with everything else taken care of by the camera. This technique also powers the Nintendo Labo: you can use plain cardboard as a controller because its motion is sensed by the camera in the Switch control module.