Reconfigurable gaming input device

Introduction

The reconfigurable gaming input device would be shipped in kit form, with instructions on how to assemble the device from components. It would most likely be made of a microcontroller (ie PIC or AVR) with a USB interface. The microcontroller would support multiple modes of input. The directions would show different ways to configure the buttons/potentiometers to create a game pad, joystick, or other input device.

The physical hardware might consist of household objects. So a stick of wood could become part of a joystick. A book with buttons attached could be the makings of a gamepad.

The idea is to give the user as much flexibility in the creation of the gaming device as possible, while keeping the cost minimal.

Interested parties

• Andy Barry - potential project for POE class at Olin College
• Mel Chua - willing to serve as OLPC contact, fascinated by the idea of physical reconfigurability using household objects.