Accessible Controller Plays Around With Modularity

Video games are a great way to have some fun or blow off a little steam when real life becomes laughable. But stock controllers and other inputs are hardly one size fits all. Even if you have no physical issues, they can be too big, too small, or just plain uncomfortable to hold.

[kefcom] wrote in to give us a heads up about a modular, adaptive system he designed for anyone who is unable to operate a PS3, PS4, or PC with a standard controller. The project was inspired by Microsoft’s adaptive XBOX controller and works pretty much the same way — broken-out buttons, joysticks, and other inputs all connect to a hub that unifies them into a controller the console or computer can communicate with. The major difference is that this project is open source and can be realized much more cheaply.

If you want to give this a try, [kefcom]’s project repo has step-by-step instructions for disassembling two types of wireless controllers and converting them into hubs for modular controls. He’s looking for help with design, documentation, and finding reliable suppliers for all the parts, so let him know if you can assist.

Some players need something more accessible than just broken-out buttons and full-size joysticks. Here’s an adaptive controller that uses ridged foam rollers to actuate buttons.

8 thoughts on “Accessible Controller Plays Around With Modularity

      1. This is just an example, you can place the buttons where ever you want.
        That is the ease of this approach, this is not for a normal person that can hold a controller but an extension for disabled people who are limited in options. As i see it you can make a button from just about anything and place it anywhere hence the option of cabling.

        And the pricey part of cabling, in my country they go for about 1€/piece, hard to beat it with diy imho.

        1. I used these cables because the xbox adaptive controller uses them. Now the buttons are compatible so users who have an xbox adaptive controller can use those buttons on the ps4 adaptive and vice versa. The cables I used were 3 meters long but I also have 1 meter cables. The idea behind the long cables is that a user can for example place buttons near their head or feet if they have problems using their hands. As far as price goes: they cost about €0.7 per cable, which isn’t all that expensive if you ask me.

  1. Very cool idea! If I ever know anyone that is ever in a possition where they need a controller like this… I’m totally making them one! It annoys me that the industry – which surpasses movies in sales – still hasn’t come up with their own solution for this out of the box. Its hard to imagine there isn’t a need in the market for it.

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