Gimbal Encoder Two-Piece Stem for Low-Friction Knob Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gimbal encoders for knobs lack efficient mechanisms to minimize friction between rotating and stationary parts, particularly in applications requiring precise control like audio equipment and industrial controls.
Innovation Solution
The proposed gimbal assembly incorporates a two-piece stem formed by an upper and lower stem portion, which collectively define a wiring channel and feature a rail and groove design to minimize friction between rotating and stationary parts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If traditional single-piece stem design is used, then manufacturing is simpler, but friction between rotating and stationary parts increases
Solution Approach 1:
The stem is divided into two separate portions: a stationary lower stem portion attached to the fixed section, and a rotating upper stem portion attached to the rotatable section. This segmentation allows each portion to be optimized independently, with the wiring channel formed by their collective arrangement, thereby reducing friction while maintaining manufacturability.
2Ease of operation
If the wiring channel is formed separately, then wiring installation is easier, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The wiring channel function is merged into the stem structure itself by collectively forming the channel through the arrangement of the upper and lower stem portions. This integration eliminates the need for separate wiring channels while maintaining ease of wiring installation, as the channel is naturally created by the two-piece stem configuration.
3Device complexity
If the LCD housing is directly attached to the rotatable section, then assembly is simpler, but the LCD housing rotates with the knob
Solution Approach 1:
The stationary lower stem portion acts as an intermediary between the rotatable upper stem portion and the LCD housing. This intermediary structure provides a fixed reference point that prevents the LCD housing from rotating with the knob, while still allowing the upper stem portion to rotate freely for knob operation.
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.