Three techniques for producing the control surface are under investigation: fusing thermoplastic resistive material into a cavity in a nonconductive plastic housing to produce a solid and continuous structure; fabricating a discrete piece of resistive plastic that will fit into a recess in the housing; and fabricating the control surface from Cermet and fitting it into a recess in the housing.
The technique of fusing thermoplastic material into a housing promises to make an almost indestructible arcade game, but at higher cost than the other approaches. Cermet, which is a ceramic substrate with metal fused into it, is extremely hard and resistant to abrasion and scratching but is omewhat brittle. It appears that the discrete piece of resistive plastic will be the least expensive of the three techniques, especially for large control surfaces. Preliminary cost estimates indicate that control surfaces can be produced by this technique for one to two dollars apiece. Even less expensive approaches are possible, such as silk screening with resistive ink.
Conclusion
We have shown that the Trazor offers two major benefits to the manufacturer of video games. It enhances the novelty and appeal of games, and it solves the problem of mechanical reliability. The Trazor also offers the manufacturer of arcade games reduced vulnerability to vandalism and misuse. The manufacturing technology is sufficiently advanced to indicate that the price will be competitive with the more complex two-axis controllers such as joysticks. Now it is up to you, the engineers and executives in the video game industry, to take the last step in the development of the Trazor from an initial concept to a commonplace household item.
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