This Adaptive Gamepad Uses a Clever "Rail" System to Stave Off Repetitive Strain Injuries

Pseudonymous maker and gamer "maggs_cas," hereafter simply "Maggs," has released 3D-print files for a game controller whose physical button layout can be adjusted on the fly — as a way to prevent repetitive strain injuries (RSI) from longer gaming sessions.

"This is an adaptable gaming controller designed to reduce strain and prevent injuries like RSI," Maggs explains of the device. "Its parts can be repositioned to fit your hands and play style, keeping your hand posture neutral. By letting different fingers and muscles share the workload, it prevents overuse, and if you start feeling discomfort, you can adjust the layout mid-game instead of stopping or pushing through pain. Play longer, safer, and more comfortably, without forcing your body to adapt to the controller."

The body of the controller, which is shaped so as to be suitable for use with the thumbstick at either the right or the left depending on personal preference, is 3D-printed and hides an Arduino Leonardo microcontroller board. This is connected to a thumbstick module and three push-button switches — but it's how these are connected that makes the controller stand out.

Rather than being fixed in place, both the thumbstick and the three buttons are placed on 3D-printed "rail" systems. In the case of the buttons, these connect electronically via strips of copper tape. The through-hole legs of each button push against the copper tape tracks that allows them to slide across the length of the rail — moving where on the controller they sit without having to disassemble the gamepad or even stop playing. The joystick has a similar adjustment system, but with flying leads rather than copper tape as its connection.

3D print files for the project have been released on Instructables under an unspecified open-source license, along with instructions for its assembly and wiring.