Overview

A reference design for a tracked object in the Steam VR system was created by Synapse.  Training material was then generated to teach people how to incorporate the design into their own product.

The Challenge

High customer demand for a tracked object reference design led to an aggressive schedule. This was a challenge for several activities including molding and assembly. To complicate things further, quantities were low and the part design was complicated.

The Solution

3D geometry and a sensor placement tool were used to optimize and iterate the tracked object shape. A solution that tracked well was found and we started 3D modeling. The CAD work was split up using a master modeling technique that allowed us to work simultaneously. The parts were kept as simple as possible while still meeting the design requirements in order to reduce risk of meeting our timeline. Once the CAD was complete, prototypes were 3D printed, populated with sensors, and made to track in Steam VR. Happy with the performance, detail design was completed and files were released to the suppliers. Several builds were coordinated at a domestic CM to support the quantities needed for training.

My Contributions

• Assisted in development of the product architecture
• Created VisualBasic export macros for Solidworks
• Optimized sensor location and geometry
• Solidworks modeling of front housing
• Tolerance analyses
• Brought up domestic assembly line
• Processes
  • Injection molding
  • Die cutting
  • Machining
  • SLA

Links

• Steam VR Tracking Overview