ArcadeCab's CNC Ultra-Trackball Plans

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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The Plans (.dwg format)

Background
When I decided to reduce the construction time of the trackball units, I sent out a request for bids from several different vendors, with a detailed description of my requirements. Two of the companies, SlikStick and Mameroom, responded back quickly. After further communication with both companies,
I ended up selecting Mameroom. I will tell you though, SlikStick does custom work for other companies and they are topnotch. If you are looking for something custom (in quantities of more than one) at least shoot them an email for a quote.  Christian will do what he can to make you happy.
 

Scott at Mameroom and I went back and forth with design ideas on how to best construct my vision. They deal with cam-and-post construction and I focused a lot of energy on ensuring that none of the cams were going to be visible from the outside.  We had to have go through at least six major designs (and a myriad of minor design tweaks) to arrive at the one I show here, including two physical prototypes. During the entire process, Scott was patient and helpful which is to be commended. I cannot say enough good things about the entire experience with Mameroom- they are good people, Scott in particular.

I ended up supplying the 3/16" hardboard base myself rather than having them include a 5/8" board. This reduced the controller's weight and kept costs down further as I could get more panels from a sheet of 5/8" board. The resulting design is extremely compact, the components fit perfectly within, it
is very sturdy, and the overall look, in my opinion, is sharp. If  you contact Scott, be sure to tell him Mike from ArcadeCab sent you.


 

The File
The CAD file is the 3d representation of the CNC cutting document that was used to cut the most recent Ultra-Trackball panels. You'll need either Autocad or a cad viewer to open the file. I'm providing this file under the GNU General Public License (GPL). If you use this on your site, kindly reference me (either as ArcadeCab.com or Mike Trello) as the source.  It would be appreciated.

In addition to the box, you will also need a piece of ___ x ___" 3/16" hardboard for the bottom, 3 screws to attach the base to the ledgers, and some T-molding. I countersink the screws to make them flush with the hardboard. I used a Happ mounting plate, 3 competition buttons, and a 3" Betson Imperial. The cutout will fit a Happ 3" trackball as well.  If you know your way around Autocad, you'll be able to quickly come up with all the dimensions.  If not, the measurements are very close to the original trackball dimensions.

 

From this basic design, you could create all manner of single player layouts as well.  I include some PDF layouts on the original TB plan page.  For posterity's sake, I have slapped a bunch of pictures of the finished product at the bottom of this page.


 

Pictures of the unpopulated panel