Jack of all Trades
An undeniable success, the Nintendo Switch bridges the gap between gaming on the big and small screen. However, in order to get there, compromises were made to the handheld experience, leaving players dissatisfies with the consoles ergonomics. Unconvinced by the bulky or otherwise compromising solutions offered by 3rd parties, I set out to design a 3D-printable solution in accordance with my own sensibilities.
Completing the Transformation
Seeking a solution, both functional and suitably minimal, the outcome was a set of detachable grips – completing the consoles transformation into a proper handheld, without needlessly adding to its bulk or detracting from its visual appeal.
Minimal design, Secure fit
Having opted for a split design, each grip snap-fits onto the Switch itself and is secured in place by two pegs which line-up with screw indentations on its backside. Further adding to the handhelds rigidity, the cradle part of each grip extends out to offload some of the stress put on the Joycons' plastic slides. This greatly reduces flex and lends the handheld a more solid feel.
Designed for Easy Fabrication
Having conventional FDM 3D-printers in mind, my approach was in no small part informed by their inherent strengths and weaknesses. The grips are for instance designed to be printed standing on their sides, minimising the build area, as well as the amount of support structure required. Furthermore, by shaping the stress relief such that the model stands at a slight angle, overhang becomes easier to print. The slight angle is especially helpful when printing the supports with so called 'support interface' which drastically reduces the cleanup required before the grips can be primed and painted.
