Introducing XPAD: Design, Generate, and 3D Print Your Own Control Pad
XPAD is a modular system for designing and building custom control pads. It combines browser-based layout tools, automatically generated 3D-printable parts, solder-free hardware modules, and device configuration in one platform.
Instead of adapting to a fixed keyboard or redesigning an enclosure in CAD for every new idea, XPAD allows users to create a control pad around the functions they actually need.
## From a Custom Layout to Printable Parts
The XPAD browser tools allow keys and control modules to be positioned and rotated freely. Once the layout is complete, the system generates a matching enclosure and custom keycaps for 3D printing.
This makes it possible to experiment with different sizes, spacing, angles, and input combinations without rebuilding the entire mechanical design manually.
XPAD can be used to create:
- Macro and shortcut pads
- Custom numpads
- Compact desktop controllers
- Rhythm-game inputs
- Racing controls
- Creative-software control pads
- Other specialized input layouts
The free-form layout tool can be accessed directly here:
[Try the Free-Form Layout Generator](https://xtiaconfiger.com/free-layout/free_layout_configurator.html)
## Modular, Solder-Free Hardware
XPAD is designed to reduce assembly difficulty as well as enclosure-design work.
Key modules and control modules connect directly to the main controller through plug-in cables. No soldering is required, making it easier to assemble a layout, test it, replace a module, or revise the design.
The current system supports MX mechanical switches, hall-effect magnetic switch modules, rotary encoders, custom keycaps, and RP2040-based controller options.
## Explore the XPAD Platform
The XPAD website includes the layout tools, device configurator, keycap generator, example presets, and technical documentation.
The project is currently in active development. The browser tools, physical prototypes, firmware integration, and several example configurations are already working, while the generation and download workflow continues to be refined.
## Follow the Crowdfunding Project
XPAD is now in pre-launch crowdfunding on MakerWorld.
The campaign will support continued development of the generation platform, production-ready hardware, firmware integration, printable-file delivery, and additional layout and module options.
If you are interested in designing and 3D printing your own custom control pad, visit the campaign page and enable launch notifications.
[View the XPAD Crowdfunding Project]
XPAD is being developed as a reusable system—not a single fixed keyboard. The objective is to make custom input devices easier to design, print, assemble, and configure.
