New Product - Force Feedback (Haptic) Encoder - Page 7

RickS · 03-01-2007, 08:12 PM

Awesome! It works great! I just spent 20 minutes converting/creating a VB.NET version of the demo but I didn't save it when I shut down the compiler so I lost the work. I'll post that when I redo it.

armstrom · 03-01-2007, 08:53 PM

Great, let me know if you run into any problems. I take it you found the class fairly self explanatory? Or did you need to rely on the documentation much? If you would like, you can send me the VB.Net demo project and I will include it in the zip file.

Siezmik · 03-01-2007, 09:50 PM

Not sure how I missed this thread until now, but this thing is sweet! Mine's ordered and on its way.

Too bad it doesn't have X and Y slide motion similar in nature to the Space Navigator or even a simplified version like the Logitech Nulooq. If someone does succeed in coming up with a solution for that shortcoming, and a "universal" interface is designed, sales for this thing should take off like a rocket.

RickS · 03-02-2007, 08:41 AM

The class is extremely self explanatory and the documentation is excellent. I didn't have to refer to the docs at all, just glanced through it quickly before I looked at the code. I'll let you know if I run into any problems or have any other questions...thanks for making this!

Zip-Lock · 03-02-2007, 09:45 AM

Quote: Originally Posted by RickS

The class is extremely self explanatory and the documentation is excellent. I didn't have to refer to the docs at all, just glanced through it quickly before I looked at the code. I'll let you know if I run into any problems or have any other questions...thanks for making this!

Glad to hear it's working out for you. What application are you using it for?

RickS · 03-02-2007, 03:40 PM

I wrote the FE I'm using and I'm planning to tie it into that for scrolling through lists of songs, playlists, POIs, radio stations, etc and controlling volume. I'm planning to post some of the applications out here when I get them done...

RickS · 03-02-2007, 09:40 PM

Here's a VB.NET version of the demo using armstrom's managed DLL in case anyone else wants it.

terryking · 03-07-2007, 05:11 AM

I'm very interested in this type encoder, because I need an input device that can handle relatively simple inputs, similar to a touch screen, that will work well while driving in bumpy conditions. The bumpy conditions will be in a boat underway. The other obvious requirement is that the device must be able to be salt-water-proofed...

I think that could be done, with the single-shaft property of this device, and careful enclosure and cabling.

I'm sure there will be outdoor applications for this in construction equipment etc.

Anyone seen info on Waterproofing???

pwntbypat · 03-19-2007, 01:23 PM

I read through this and have a question:

I understand how the device works, I guess. But is it possible two code the driver in some way that the "dial" seen as a scroll wheel and the "press" is seen as a left mouse click? I know with Centrafuse, the scroll wheel is automatically integrated into menus and the left mouse click is just a select. Then as long as the unit could work continously as a "detent" pattern. Perhaps even click and hold to change volume?

armstrom · 03-19-2007, 08:34 PM

Keep in mind that the whole point of the device is to allow it to be programmable. If the driver simply exposed it as a mouse wheel with the button simulating a click, then it wouldn't really be worth the price, in my opinion. But, if you have already bought one I can write a little app that will use the encoder to do what you want. Does anyone else see value in something like this?

-Matt

Siezmik · 03-20-2007, 08:14 AM

Quote: Originally Posted by armstrom

Does anyone else see value in something like this?

If you could make it so that the detents are adjustable for "size" and "feel", then I think a little interface like that might be worthwhile. It might draw in more people who don't have the programming skills to write their own interface.

armstrom · 03-20-2007, 04:37 PM

ok. I can do that. I'll start on it when I get home and should have something by later tonight.

One thing to keep in mind is that this software will not likely work on Vista. One of the new security features in Vista prevents user processes from broadcasting system-wide mouse events. To solve this in Vista I would have to write a device driver and I really don't feel like messing with the DDK tonight. I'll keep everyone posted.

-Matt