HTC Vive Controller Protector

thingiverse

Having owned our Vive for only three weeks, one of the controllers suddenly started displaying a known track-pad fault. We immediately contacted HTC and those who have gone through this process already know what a frustrating waste of time it can be. After three long weeks without a controller, we finally received a refurbished, well-used replacement that was not even our original device. I decided to take proactive measures to protect our controllers and avoid any future dealings with HTC's customer service department. My solution was designed to prevent damage to the controllers while ensuring optimal performance during gameplay. Adding just 2 ounces to each controller is minimal compared to the potential savings from preventing damage, which is exactly what these protectors were tested for over two weeks using various games without encountering any issues. The sensors remain fully exposed to the lighthouses, ensuring seamless tracking and accuracy. My wife CJ took it upon herself to create safety straps made from para-cord after reading about numerous instances of previous strap failures during gameplay. I highly recommend replacing your existing straps with safer alternatives as soon as possible. You can find detailed instructions online or purchase better-quality straps than those provided by HTC. Please note that these protectors are for personal use only, and I kindly request that you do not sell them as they took me weeks to design and numerous prints to perfect. As a gesture of goodwill, I'm offering these protectors for free to the 3D printing community on the condition that if you decide to make them, please add my name as the creator. I'd love to see how others customize and improve upon this design. Here's a link to 3D printable threaded rod and nut designed by Lecter to fit your protectors: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2713178. However, I must emphasize that I haven't personally tried these printable components, so use them at your own risk. Print Settings: Printer: Core XY Rafts: No Supports: No Resolution: 0.20 Infill: 15% Notes: We used PETG filament for the protector design, which features a threaded top part that requires 52 mm long, 5 mm nylon threaded rods and nylon wing nuts for fastening. You can find these components on eBay at an affordable price point. The threaded rod is designed to break away in the event of accidental impact against walls or furniture.