Gimbal Encoder Assembly With Magnetic Torque Detent Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gimbal encoders for knobs lack efficient mechanisms to minimize friction between rotating and stationary parts, leading to unwanted rubbing and wear, and do not provide dynamic control over detent feel and torque adjustments.
Innovation Solution
A gimbal assembly incorporating a brushless gimbal motor paired with a magnetic encoder for closed-loop torque feedback control, allowing for dynamic creation and adjustment of detents and end stops, along with a design that minimizes friction through a rail and groove interface and a two-piece stem for wiring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional gimbal encoder design is used, then structural simplicity is maintained, but friction between rotating and stationary parts increases causing wear and rubbing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical contact-based friction reduction methods with a magnetic field-based encoding system. The magnetic encoder uses magnetic fields to detect rotational position without physical contact between the rotating knob and stationary encoder components, thereby eliminating friction and wear while maintaining reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a non-contact magnetic field as an intermediary between the rotating knob and the stationary encoder. This magnetic field mediator transfers rotational position information without requiring direct mechanical contact, thus reducing friction and improving durability
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed torque mechanism is used, then structural simplicity is maintained, but dynamic control over detent feel and torque adjustments is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic torque control mechanism where the detent feel and torque characteristics can be adjusted in real-time through electronic control. The system uses a brushless DC motor with electronic commutation to provide variable torque output, allowing dynamic adaptation to different user preferences and application requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables dynamic adjustment of torque parameters through electronic control of the motor driver. By changing electrical parameters (current, voltage, pulse width modulation duty cycle), the system can dynamically modify detent force, torque magnitude, and rotational characteristics without mechanical reconfiguration
3Ease of manufacture
If single-piece stem design is used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but wiring channel integration becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the stem into multiple separable components (first stem portion and second stem portion) that can be independently manufactured and then assembled. This segmentation allows each portion to be optimized for its specific function while simplifying the overall assembly process and enabling flexible wiring channel integration through the modular structure
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides precise control over knob position, reduces friction, and enables customizable detent feel and torque settings, enhancing the user experience and durability of the gimbal encoder.
Implementation Method 1
a brushless gimbal motor paired with a magnetic encoder for closed-loop torque feedback control
Implementation Method 2
a brushless gimbal motor paired with a magnetic encoder for closed-loop torque feedback control
Data Source
AI summary
A gimbal assembly includes a gimbal encoder having a gimbal encoder having a lower fixed section and an upper rotatable section, the gimbal encoder defining a gimbal aperture through an axis of rotation of the upper rotatable section; a liquid crystal display (LCD) housing configured to hold an LCD, the LCD housing defining a flat circular body and an upper stem portion extending perpendicularity downward from the center of the circular body, the upper stem portion being sized to be placed vertically downwards into an upper portion of the gimbal aperture; and a lower adapter defining a lower stem portion sized to be placed vertically upwards into a lower portion of the gimbal aperture, wherein the upper stem portion and the lower stem portion are configured to interface with one another to collectively form a two-piece stem.