Xbox Controller for client with tetraplegia
The available modified controllers on the commercial market were not suitable so we had to custom-make the item.
Due to limited dexterity it was impossible for this client to hold an Xbox controller let alone operate the numerous small buttons and joy sticks; a way to give him access to all of these controls had to be found.
The solution
The solution was to build an “exoskeleton” for the controller; expanding all of the control buttons and joysticks out to much larger “copies”, all fixed to a lap tray.
Large joysticks were built, with ball races used throughout to take the weight of the client’s hands and to some extent his arms. These were connected to the small Xbox controller joysticks using ball and socket linkages.
The “trigger” levers, on the rear of the controller were actuated with large levers on either side of the lap tray.
Wires were soldered to all the push buttons within the controller. These were brought out to large buttons spread around the lap tray to mimic the controller button as closely as possible.
All of the parts (over 90) were 3D printed and held together with approx. 150 very small screws!
The benefit
The client is now able to play games on his Xbox.
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