InterAction Labs SQWEEZE Game Controller

Integrating IA-Lab’s force sensor into a game controller that is both lightweight and strong was a significant challenge.  Focus group testing with children indicated the device could not exceed 2.5lbs.  SQWEEZE also needed to withstand up to 150lbs of crushing and pulling -- the strength of a 90th percentile male. 

Imagine
The aesthetic of the outer shell was designed to communicate the need to squeeze the handles together and pull them apart during game play.  The two circular bulges above the handles suggest this rotational movement. Perhaps the biggest challenge was the movement of the handles. IA-Lab’s force sensor does not require the handles to move to measure force, but providing up to 10º of motion to the handles, when crushing or pulling, provides a more satisfying experience. The solution came from an innovative multi-durometer urethane spring system based on concepts borrowed from jet aircraft landing gear suspension.

Implement
Through hours of FEA, empirical testing of design combinations, and exploring numerous alloys, the team succeeded with a device that weighs just 2.1 lbs yet can withstand 200lbs of repeated crushing and pulling and can be manufactured at the target cost-of-goods. Attention was also paid to the angle of the handles relative to the chassis of the device to provide a more dynamic look while not sacrificing usability. Overall, the design language suggests vigorous fun.

Impact
SQWEEZE was introduced at a recent gaming industry convention and helped open the door to high level meetings with all of the major game makers. The device is in formal development as are other interactive gaming devices using the same mechanical principals.