Abstract: A modular controller system. The novel modular controller system includes a plurality of control modules, each module including a plurality of controls; a first mechanism for mechanically connecting the control modules; a second mechanism for communicating with a mobile device; and a program stored in and executed by the mobile device for receiving data from the control modules and in accordance therewith generating output data. In a preferred embodiment, the system includes a docking module for holding and interfacing with the mobile device, and the docking module and control modules each include a housing having physical features for mechanically connecting the modules together and electrical connectors in the physical features for transferring data and power between modules. The program generates output data in response to the data received from the control modules to control an application running on the mobile device.

Abstract: A modular MIDI controller. The novel controller includes two or more modules, each module including a plurality of controls, and a mechanism for connecting the modules together to form one unit. In an illustrative embodiment, each control is adapted to convert a mechanical action by a user into an electrical signal, and each module includes a processor adapted to convert the electrical signals from the controls into control messages. A system control unit receives the control messages from each module and generates a corresponding MIDI output. In a preferred embodiment, the controller includes a plurality of chassis connected together to form a controller having a desired size and shape. Each chassis is adapted to hold one or more modules and may include a slot for holding one or more removable modules.