DIY seat controller

[WiZard]

While looking for a project to build in order to gain experience with Arduino programming, I came across a KickStarter page for the VRGO mini, a controller you operate by leaning your body in the chosen direction (thus freeing your hands).

VRGO Mini - Move around VR worlds like never before

The VRGO Mini is a smart device that helps you roam virtual worlds by simply tilting in the direction you want to travel.

www.kickstarter.com

This is very handy for VR, since using a keyboard, mouse or joystick can be challenging with your vision blocked by a VR headset. Not to mention that your hands are probably already holding the tracked motion controllers.

With the KickStarter closed, the VRGO mini is still available for pre-order on Indiegogo, but the price is R3,198 .

So, perfect for DIY...

Decided to cal the DIY version the BUTTER

(Also decided that the bluetooth connection and haptic feedback was not really essential for a DIY/prototype build)

 

[WiZard]

So, found the following "suitable" hardware to form the base of the project:

Cost: R30 from charity shop.

 

[WiZard]

Removed a few small unwanted parts, and was left with:

 

[WiZard]

Built some very sophisticated hardware....

Electronics cost: R150 for the Arduino and R50 for the accelerometer (had the cable already)

 

[WiZard]

The final result:

Must say: Not really very impressive looking, is it?

 

[WiZard]

Also had to write some firmware to read the accelerometer and emulate a Joystick and Keyboard for connection to the computer (since some games want keyboard inputs). Decided I might as well make it configurable via the USB serial connection with the computer (avoided extra hardware).

Since I have a lousy memory, and will no doubt not know how to use the thing next month, added some built in help:
(response from receiving a "?" via the serial interface)