Building DIY Hall Effect Racing Pedals for Sim Racing
In my previous project, I crafted a force feedback steering wheel for sim racing, but this time, I tackled a different challenge—designing and building racing pedals. These pedals not only complement the steering wheel but also introduce a more efficient and accurate approach to measuring pedal inputs.
Why Hall Effect Sensors?
Traditional racing pedals often use potentiometers to measure input. These devices rely on variable resistors to adjust voltage based on pedal position. While effective, they require complex mechanical linkages and are prone to wear over time.
Instead, I opted for Hall effect sensors. These sensors measure the proximity of a magnet, translating magnetic force into voltage changes. By simply moving a magnet closer or further from the sensor, the pedals can send precise input data to a controller or computer. This approach eliminates the need for intricate linkages, reducing complexity and improving durability.
The Design
For this project, I designed sturdy yet straightforward pedals using a combination of 3D-printed parts, aluminum tubing, and bolts. Here’s how it came together:
- Structure
- The pedal frame consists of PLA 3D-printed sides reinforced with six aluminum tubes and bolts, providing excellent strength and minimal twist.
- To ensure clean and precise cuts, I recommend using a good pipe cutter.
- Magnet Holder and Spring
- A magnet holder keeps the magnet parallel to the Hall effect sensor.
- A spring, sourced from a disassembled hardware clamp, provides resistance to the pedal’s movement. The spring was sturdy enough to withstand heavy use, making it ideal for this setup.
- Sensor Mounting
- The Hall effect sensor is securely housed in a dedicated slot beneath the pedal. Its orientation ensures accurate detection of the magnet’s position.
- Final Assembly
- Once the frame, magnet, spring, and sensor were in place, I attached a custom pedal face. All components were wired to the controller for seamless communication.
Calibration and Testing
After assembly, I mounted the pedals onto a plywood base for testing. To integrate them with my sim setup, I used a calibration tool provided by the developer of the steering wheel firmware.
The calibration process involved setting the minimum and maximum pedal positions, allowing the software to accurately interpret the pedal’s range of motion. Using the tool, I confirmed the following:
- Steering Wheel: Translates movements onto the screen as expected.
- Pedals: Display accurate input changes when pressed, with real-time feedback visible on the calibration tool.
This ensured that the pedals worked flawlessly alongside the steering wheel in my sim setup.
Make Your Own
If you’re inspired to build your own Hall effect racing pedals, the STL files and assembly guide are available in the show notes of my video. This DIY approach not only saves money but also gives you the satisfaction of creating custom, high-quality sim racing equipment.
Whether you’re a casual gamer or a dedicated sim racer, these pedals are a robust and precise addition to any setup. Ready to race?
