Post #1 · Posted at 2018-04-11 05:50:38am 6 years ago
 Promit | |
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Here's my build write-up: https://ventspace.wordpress.com/2018/04/09/danceforce-v3-diy-dance-pad-controller/
V3 Pictured: https://i.imgur.com/pi4fYSb.jpg
Almost two years ago, I shared some images and concepts of version 1 and received good feedback. I did not feel at the time that it was ready for the world though. It's been a long process to update the design, but I've finally finished a pad I'm really happy with. Highlights:
* Cost is $200-220 per pad when you build two. (Down to $180 if V4 works.)
* The steps use sealed solid state pressure sensors. They can't get dirty and it should be practically impossible to break them short of fluid spills.
* Barefoot safe, with just four screws in the outer corners. V1 was screwless but this is far easier to maintain/service and the screws are not in the way.
* Adjustable sensitivity. Essentially the steps are deep/clicky by default, but you can use card paper inserts to make them shallower and more sensitive. I would never describe them as high effort though.
* Easy to build and service, unlike the original. In the unlikely event of sensor failure, you can open the pad, tear out the failed sensor, and put a new one down in its place.
* The slimline design is 0.47 inches (12 mm) thick. Worried about durability? Upgrade the base layer to whatever you want.
The key to the design is a pressure sensitive conductive sheet called Velostat. By sandwiching it between two contacts, you get a variable resistance which can be measured by an Arduino, and that in turn can trigger gamepad buttons on a PC. The rest of the puzzle is just making a pad that feels nice to play on.
At this point, a 2+ year development timeline on a hobby project has been an adventure. It's given me a lot of time to test the basic approach and make design adjustments. This has been my attempt to create the perfect DIY pad. I just hope a few people out there are still committed to the cause and willing to give this design a shot.
P.S. If you are within traveling distance of North Baltimore, come to my house and try the pad. Seriously. You can meet my doggo https://i.imgur.com/nd7pmVb.jpg
V3 Pictured: https://i.imgur.com/pi4fYSb.jpg
Almost two years ago, I shared some images and concepts of version 1 and received good feedback. I did not feel at the time that it was ready for the world though. It's been a long process to update the design, but I've finally finished a pad I'm really happy with. Highlights:
* Cost is $200-220 per pad when you build two. (Down to $180 if V4 works.)
* The steps use sealed solid state pressure sensors. They can't get dirty and it should be practically impossible to break them short of fluid spills.
* Barefoot safe, with just four screws in the outer corners. V1 was screwless but this is far easier to maintain/service and the screws are not in the way.
* Adjustable sensitivity. Essentially the steps are deep/clicky by default, but you can use card paper inserts to make them shallower and more sensitive. I would never describe them as high effort though.
* Easy to build and service, unlike the original. In the unlikely event of sensor failure, you can open the pad, tear out the failed sensor, and put a new one down in its place.
* The slimline design is 0.47 inches (12 mm) thick. Worried about durability? Upgrade the base layer to whatever you want.
The key to the design is a pressure sensitive conductive sheet called Velostat. By sandwiching it between two contacts, you get a variable resistance which can be measured by an Arduino, and that in turn can trigger gamepad buttons on a PC. The rest of the puzzle is just making a pad that feels nice to play on.
At this point, a 2+ year development timeline on a hobby project has been an adventure. It's given me a lot of time to test the basic approach and make design adjustments. This has been my attempt to create the perfect DIY pad. I just hope a few people out there are still committed to the cause and willing to give this design a shot.
P.S. If you are within traveling distance of North Baltimore, come to my house and try the pad. Seriously. You can meet my doggo https://i.imgur.com/nd7pmVb.jpg