How can I improve the sensitivity of my joystick used in Simulink?

R
riya_sharma · Aug 19, 2021 · 2.3K views
Question
I am using a Joystick Input block from the Virtual Reality Toolbox in Simulink. I am using the joystick to navigate around my virtual world however the smallest step I can make with the joystick is too far. Can I somehow improve the sensitivity of my joystick?  
Expert Answer
Profile picture of Kshitij Singh
Kshitij Singh PhD Expert
Answered Aug 19, 2026
You can use a Gain block to tune the joystick's sensitivity. There is an example of using a gain block in series with a joystick in the "vrcrane_joystick" demo.
 
1. Open up this demo model by typing the following at the MATLAB command prompt:
 
vrcrane_joystick

2. Look in the subsystem "vrcrane_joystick/Setting the SetPoint using Joystick".

a. The block "Sensitivity / Inverting Y" in this subsystem is a Gain block for adjusting the sensitivity of the joystick.

b. The block "Joystick 0 Tolerance" is a Dead Zone block.  This is necessary because joysticks usually have an uncertainty around zero and is especially important if the joystick position is integrated to get speed or position.
Have a different question? Ask here

Get a Free Consultation or a Sample Assignment Review!