Sidewinder Force Feedback 2 Extension

[kissklas]

Final update:

 

The extension is now tested, and It works!

 

It has been added to Shapewaysif you want to order a printed extension. If someone wants to print it themselves using a home printer, it has also been posted to Thingiverse. Please post or send me a PM if you have a website/platform you would like to have it added to:)

 

Image of the final model mounted:

 

 

 

 

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Hello guys!

I know there are still many using the MSFFB2, and some of you have probably modded it to some degree.

For those of you who haven't, and doesn't want to permanently alter your stick , I am currently working on an extension that can be 3d printed.

 

Right now it is still in a prototype phase, and my first test print should be coming shortly. After that I will modify the model as needed. I'll keep posting here as things progress!

 

Keep in mind that the cable in the MSFFB2 is quite short. Depending on the extension length, a cable extension might be necessary. They do sell 11-pin JST cables around eBay, so permanent altering should not be needed. I will do some more research on this as I go.

 

Now, if any of you are interested, what kind of extension lengths would you like to see? Any wishes? I can't promise anything yet, but I would love to hear from you!

 

Here is a quick render of the early prototype:

 

 

 

 

Update 1:

 

Hello again!

 

Since last I have received the first prototype, and the scale/measurements were pretty much right.

The strength of the material proves to be strong enough to hold the force without breaking. I tried to snap it in half with my hands, but I was not able to.

I was able to fit the handle to the extension, and it worked well. The coarseness of the print means it could need a bit of sanding where the the handle meets the extension, but it does work as is.

I did not fit the extension all the way down on the base of the stick, due to the fact that it was a tad too tight.

I had to remove the extension with a tong:-p

 

All in all though, the result was better than I expected. Seeing the extension in real life I have decided to print the next one a bit longer.

And to be sure I will also print the extension thicker to ensure it does not bend or break with the extra length.

 

The bottom of the extension will also need to be altered to make a perfect fit for base of the stick, so that it gives maximum support.

The lid that slips on underneath worked great and is held in place tight. I will make the barbs a bit longer and stronger for a better fit though.

 

Edit: I have also found out that an extension cable is most likely needed for any extension. I will update you on this later.

 

Here are some images of the result so far. There are some with the stick handle in place too:)

 

Parts dismantled:

 

 

 

Parts fitted:

 

 

 

Handle fitted:

 

 

 

Handle fitted, standing:

 

 

 

Parts dismantled from the side:

 

 

 

 

So to round up, changes in the next prototype will be:

• Longer extension (somewhere between 2-7cm I guess)
• thicker tube where the extension leaves the handle (add ~2mm)
• longer and thicker barbs (add 1mm thickness, and about 0.1-0.2mm length)
• modify the shape of the bottom that encapsulates the stick base to a better fit
• scale the diameter on lower part of the tubing by 0.1-0.2mm for a looser fit of the stick base.

Update 2:

 

Hello guys.

 

I have just received the next prototype today!

The changes in update 1 has been made, and this time I printed in a polished plastic which only comes in white.

 

The result are better than I dared hope, and every part fits perfect. I have yet to install it on my main joystick but I will do this as soon as time permits it.

I have however fitted it to parts from my "spare parts"-stick. And I am posting you those images today, as well as some comparisons between this one and the old prototype.

 

The cable fits through the whole of the extension, but it will most likely not reach the circuit board. This means that you will need to buy an extension cord, or scavenge one off some old electronics.

The cable you want is a JST 2.0mm PH 11-pin cable. They can be found on eBay, and probably also in other places. Maybe Elfa/Mouser etc.

 

Most likely this version will be the one I'll be putting out on the internet for printing, as the final edition.

Enjoy the pictures, and I will be back with another update as soon as I have fitted the extension. (I might also film it for a small tutorial)

 

There is a full album for you at Imgur here:

 

http://imgur.com/a/jp5oI

 

...but for those to lazy to click links, here is the extension in all its glory:

 

 

Hope you like it. I can't wait to try it out properly in game.

 

All the best,

Klas

Edited February 24, 2017 by kissklas

[1PL-Husar-1Esk]

Cool idea :-)

[kissklas]

Cheers!

It's made so that the twist rudder mechanic is transferred up with the handle, while the spot where the pot originally sits + the chamber for the spring will lock the extension in place.

I Will most likely get the first physical copy next week. Hope the scale turned out well on the first try. I will probably have to loosen up or tighten some bits for the next prototype though. But in this round, sandpaper will do the job if it's a bit tight!

[Goanna1]

Great idea Kissklas,

I will keep checking on your progress here, as this is of interest to me in exxtending the joystick length as I've seen other joysticks extended here, as per the size of extension I really have no concrete idea and will see wat you decide to come up with.

regards Paul

[kissklas]

Thanks Paul:)

 

The current prototype(in picture) adds somewhere between 7-10 cm. I'll do accurate measures and readjusting when I know exactly how much is occluded by the handle.

 

I'll get some real images when the print arrives, so it's easier to judge scale.

Most likely sometime next week, if all goes to plan.

 

Best, Klas

Edited November 30, 2016 by kissklas

[9./JG27DavidRed]

mh that sounds interesting...would it be possible to use the extension without cutting and readjusting any wires? if so, then this would be great!

[kissklas]

mh that sounds interesting...would it be possible to use the extension without cutting and readjusting any wires? if so, then this would be great!

This is exactly what I am trying to achieve. I have set as a requirement that this extension must work with no permanent alterations. That goes for snipping/soldering wires too. I have managed to get the 11-pin contact through the neck, so if the extension is too long, worst case is getting a cable extension(from plug to plug) off ebay.

 

I'll get back to you all when I get the first print. It has been shipped and will be here either tomorrow or the day after!

 

If all goes to plan, I hope to have a good printable version up for you guys in not too long. I am estimating 1 or 2 more prototypes first though.

 

Thanks for your interest! I'll be back with news real soon:)

Edited December 5, 2016 by kissklas

[Goanna1]

legendary effort

Edited December 6, 2016 by Goanna1

[kissklas]

New update at the top:)

[kissklas]

Hey guys!

 

Quick Christmas update:

I ran out of time and money for a new prototype before Christmas (presants and the bill for Oculus Touch came sneaking up on me:-p).

 

I will be back with updates after new year. I have made the changes to the model, and will go over and double check the measurements before printing the next one.

With some luck, the next prototype will be final, and I'll release the model. Firstly on Shapeways, but I have a plan to release it for home printing too.

 

Have a "god jul" and a happy new year!

 

best,
klas

[kissklas]

New update at the top!

[Dakpilot]

Very cool!

 

Cheers Dakpilot

[kissklas]

Cheers Dakpilot! It has finally been completed. New image on the top!

[Extreme_One]

That looks superb!

[kissklas]

Thanks Extreme_One! Glad you like it:)

 

I am putting it out for printing at Thingiverse as well for those who have a home printer!

Should be able to post there in 24 hours. (new accounts need to wait before publishing models).

Edited February 20, 2017 by kissklas

[GrendelsDad]

KissKlas how much does one cost approximately?

Edited February 20, 2017 by II./ZG1_GrendelsDad

[kissklas]

Hey GrendelsDad! On Shapeways.com it costs 30.33$ to have them print it. Link is at the top!

 

You can print it yourself for free on thingieverse.com,if you have a printer or know someone who does:-)

 

This is not tested yet, so I will wait with posting the link for thingiverse. Shapeways prints in a strong nylon based material, so I am not yet sure if other plastics can take the strain, or if home printers print it accurate enough.

 

Hope to find this out real soon though!

 

(Actually if anyone has a printer and would like to test that would be awsome)

 

Best, Klas

Edited February 20, 2017 by kissklas

[1PL-Husar-1Esk]

Looking forward for feedback

[kissklas]

I have linked to the Thingiverse site now too in the top for those interested. It has not yet been tested from there so I am still unsure about the results if the material strength and precision are lower than on Shapeways.

[GrendelsDad]

Hey there kissklas my extension has been shipped...could I possibly get you to post a link to the 11pin adaptor you say is needed...I am a noob and dont want to buy the wrong one...Ebay would be fine for me.  Thanks and I will of course post my impressions after.  Thank you for this cool idea.

[kissklas]

Hey GrendelsDad!

 

I have looked and looked online for a cable with male and female ends. The closest I got was this:

 

http://www.ebay.com/itm/JST-2-0mm-PH-11-Pin-Female-Housing-Connector-with-Wire-Male-Connector-10-Sets-/112284280797

 

It should be the right plug, but there is no male connector. When I installed the extension I had a cable from an old parts stick (also with just a female connector). What I did with mine was I stuck the cable ends directly into the female connector from the handle. I secured it with a small strip of electrical tape.

It is of course not the most ideal way, but it ensures that nothing is permanently altered, and it works.

 

I'll be available for help with installing should you need it:)

 

Best,

Klas

[GrendelsDad]

Thank you sir...look forward to getting my hands on this.

[kissklas]

Thank you sir...look forward to getting my hands on this.

Hope you like it! It improved my stick a lot. Great to have some extra movement from side to side:)

 

I can try to do a sketch of how I secured the cable endings. It keeps pushed together within the neck due to the tight fit.

[GrendelsDad]

I will give it a go and if I get caught up I will ask for sure.