Using the Logitech G29 Steering Wheel with ProtoPie Connect

Create realistic multi-screen automotive experiences thanks to ProtoPie Connect and the Logitech G29 Steering Wheel plugin.

Learn more about prototyping with ProtoPie for automotive.

The Information Flow

The below image illustrates the information flow between ProtoPie and the Logitech G29 steering wheel.

• The Logitech G29 steering wheel sends events and values to ProtoPie Connect’s G29 plugin.

• The G29 plugin converts these events & values to Socket.IO messages for ProtoPie to understand.

• Prototypes added to ProtoPie Connect receive these inputs and respond accordingly using Send and Receive messages.

The Ecosystem

Below is a typical ecosystem when using the G29 plugin in ProtoPie Connect.

• 1 machine with USB ports and WiFi/network capabilities

  • To run ProtoPie Connect and connect to the Logitech G29 steering wheel via USB

• 1 Logitech G29 racing wheel and pedal (optional) set

  • Example.

• 2 tablets (iPadOS or Android) or 2 computer monitors

  • For prototypes that need to be opened on a larger display (ProtoPie Connect’s web browser, ProtoPie Player on tablets).

• 1 smartphone (iOS or Android)

  • For prototypes that need to be opened on a mobile display (ProtoPie Player).

Getting Set Up

Below is the most recommended setup for handling messages between the Logitech G29 steering wheel and prototypes made in ProtoPie. At the end your setup should look like the one shown in the video at the top of this page.

• Use 2 large displays and 1 smartphone for running your prototypes (smartphones, tablets, and monitors can all serve as displays).

• Connect ProtoPie Player to ProtoPie Connect via WiFi (same LAN).

• Connect the Logitech G29 steering wheel via USB to the machine where ProtoPie Connect is running:

• In ProtoPie Connect click on the Plugins button in the upper right corner.

• Select G29 in the Plugin list.

• If you have the PlayStation version of the G29, it has a switch that allows you to toggle between PS3 and PS4 compatibility mode. Make sure it is switched to PS3 mode.

• Plug in the G29 USB cord into the computer.

• Click on the Run button.

• The G29 steering wheel is now ready for use.

Examples

Turning the Steering Wheel Left

Turn the steering wheel left to rotate and change the color of a layer in ProtoPie Studio.

• When you turn the Logitech G29 steering wheel fully to the left, the G29 plugin converts the incoming event into a message ProtoPie can interpret.

• The prototype loaded to ProtoPie Connect receives this message and assigns it to a variable when triggering the Color and Rotate responses.

Pressing a Button on the Steering Wheel

Press the triangle button on the steering wheel to trigger actions in two separate prototypes.

• When you press the triangle button on the Logitech G29 steering wheel, the G29 plugin converts the incoming event into a message ProtoPie can interpret.

• The two prototypes loaded to ProtoPie Connect respond to this message accordingly, depending on how you set up your interactions.

• For example, one prototype recreates a blinking light and the other prototype shows a text saying “Emergency”.