Background

As a company in the dynamic, intensely competitive PC games market, ACT LABS was well aware that interactive games are only as good as the interactive devices that drive them.  So they worked with Speck Design to develop a force feedback steering wheel capable of simulating the experience of handling a high-performance roadster.

Challenge

ACT LABS wanted exceptional quality - the sort that could turn heads - but they were extremely pressed for time. So Speck Design accelerated the development process by combining industrial design and mechanical engineering into a single continuous process.  Through the exchange of state-of-the-art CAD solid models, Speck Design was able to collaborate more directly with ACT LABS product designers, helping to tighten feedback loops and reduce the time required to implement enhancements and modifications.  Using the 3D data underlying those models, they were also able to directly drive the production of machined, cast and thermoformed parts for a working prototype.  On the mechanical side, Speck Design worked with force feedback technology to design a highly responsive mechanism capable of delivering the feel of driving a genuine sports car.

Solution

Not only does the ACT LABS RS device look and feel like a steering wheel that belongs in a roadster, it also delivers high-performance response.  The resulting thoughtful ergonomic design allowed all controls to be within easy reach for the user.  The device proved to be a hit with a broad range of gamers over the past several years - testifying to the strength of its design.

Results

Within seven weeks of receiving initial sketches, team Speck Design was able to deliver a completed force-feedback wheel that ACT LABS displayed in their  booth at the E3 gaming conference, where it went on to win "Best of Show" nominations on two separate occasions. Following the market success of the Force Feedback Steering Wheel design, ACT Labs returned to Speck Design for a one-two punch. This time it was for the design of an innovative gun system to revolutionize the home PC market. The market needed a way to freely navigate through the virtual worlds while maintaining the ability to shoot anywhere on the screen. Through a series of brainstorms and sketches, Speck Design came up with the idea of having a handheld controller in one hand while using the gun in the other. We mocked up handheld controllers of all shapes and sizes which were tested with users to get just the right fit and feel. With the distinctive styling of the final design, the GS Gun system was a successful follow up for ACT LABS at E3 and then on shelves across the world.

PROJECT INFO

• Client:

  ACT LABS

• Project:

  Force Feedback Steering Wheel

• Industry:

  Consumer