TINY CAD MANIPULATOR
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Compact DIY joystick-based CAD manipulator for Fusion. A low-cost alternative to SpaceMouse – easy to build, under 20$
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Updated at source:
Model information
- Source
- Printables
- Category
- Electronics
- License
- GNU General Public License v3.0
In my search for the perfect CAD manipulator (similar to a SpaceMouse), I tested several DIY projects available online. The main issue I found was their size – all of them were simply too large for my desk.
At some point, I discovered a design based on a gyroscope. It was smaller and simpler, but while waiting for the parts I realized: I don’t actually need all axes. By sacrificing the Z-axis, I could make the whole device much more compact.
That’s how the TinyCAD Manipulator was born – built using a single analog joystick like this one and an Arduino Pro Micro (ATmega32U4) like this.
Features
Compact size – smaller than most DIY alternatives.
Affordable – cost is under $5.
Dual function joystick:
Normal mode → orbit around X and Z axes in Fusion 360.
Press the joystick → switch to pan mode (move along X and Y axes).
Printed in standard PLA with a 0.4 mm nozzle.
Simple soldering and a bit of code (thanks to ChatGPT’s help).
It’s a compromise between functionality and size, but it works perfectly for my everyday needs in Fusion 360.
Maybe someone else will also find it useful!
Files included
STL for 3D printing the case
Arduino .ino code
Photos & demo video
👉 Check the short demo video on YouTube:
What you need
1× Arduino Pro Micro ATmega32U4
1× Analog joystick module
3D printed case (STL file included)
A few jumper wires and some soldering
USB cable (Micro USB or USB-C depending on your Pro Micro board)
Step 1 – 3D Printing
Print the case with standard PLA.
Recommended nozzle: 0.4 mm.
Layer height: 0.2 mm works fine.
Supports: not required (depending on your slicing setup).
Step 2 – Wiring
Connect the joystick module to the Arduino as follows:
| Joystick pin | Arduino pin |
|---|---|
| VCC | 5V |
| GND | GND |
| VRx | A0 |
| VRy | A1 |
| SW | D2 |
Step 3 – Assembly
Solder the joystick pins to wires or headers.
Place the Arduino and joystick inside the printed case.
Route the USB port through the hole in the enclosure.
Step 4 – Upload the Code
Open the .ino file in Arduino IDE.
Select Arduino Pro Micro (ATmega32U4) in the board settings.
Upload the code to the board.
Step 5 – Usage
Connect the device to your computer.
In Fusion 360 (with Thinkercad-style navigation):
Move joystick normally → orbit around X and Z axes.
Press joystick button → switch to pan mode (move along X and Y).
Release the button to return to orbit mode.
Done 🎉
That’s it!
You now have a compact, affordable TinyCAD Manipulator for Fusion 360 – a DIY alternative to SpaceMouse.