Rotary Encoder Bit Pattern Layout for More Positions in Less Space
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Solution Overview
Problem
Rotary encoders typically require a large diameter to accommodate a finite number of positions, leading to increased size, weight, and cost, as the number of discrete rotational positions increases.
Innovation Solution
A rotary encoder with a non-sequential unique bit pattern is designed, where switches form connections based on a binary string generated by removing circularly-shifted binary values, allowing for a compact form factor while maintaining a high number of discrete rotational positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the number of discrete rotational positions is increased, then the encoding capability is improved, but the diameter and size of the rotary encoder increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from sequential spatial encoding (where position is determined by radial distance from center) to a non-spatial encoding dimension (where position is determined by unique bit patterns regardless of location). This allows multiple positions to be encoded within the same radial distance, enabling high-resolution encoding without increasing encoder diameter.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the encoding parameter from sequential radial positioning to non-sequential unique bit patterns. By using binary strings where each position has a distinctive pattern rather than relying on sequential angular or radial progression, the system achieves higher encoding capacity within the same physical footprint.
2Measurement precision
If the number of discrete rotational positions is increased, then the encoding capability is improved, but the weight of the rotary encoder increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent moves encoding from a spatial dimension (radial distance corresponding to position) to a digital dimension (unique bit patterns). This dimensional shift eliminates the need for additional physical mass to represent higher positions, as encoding is achieved through binary patterns rather than proportional physical expansion.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses binary bit patterns to represent positions, where each position is defined by a unique combination of bit states rather than unique physical characteristics. This digital representation allows unlimited positions to be encoded using the same physical components, eliminating weight increases associated with higher position counts.
3Measurement precision
If the number of discrete rotational positions is increased, then the encoding capability is improved, but the cost of the rotary encoder increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal encoding scheme where the same physical encoder structure can represent any number of positions through software-defined bit patterns rather than hardware-specific configurations. This universality allows a single encoder design to serve multiple applications with different position requirements, reducing development and manufacturing costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the encoding approach from hardware-dependent sequential positioning to software-configurable unique bit patterns. This parameter change allows the encoding capability to be modified through configuration rather than physical redesign, significantly reducing the cost of achieving higher encoding capabilities.
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B~1C
Figure 2A~2C
AI summary
An apparatus (100) for rotary encoding includes a knob (102) configured to be rotated. The apparatus also includes multiple switches (304, 402) each configured to selectively form or not form a connection based on a current rotational position of the knob. The apparatus further includes a controller (312) configured to generate or use a digital value associated with the current rotational position of the knob. The digital value is defined by which switches have or have not formed connections. Locations where the switches form the connections are selected such that the digital values uniquely identify different rotational positions of the knob and are non-sequential as the knob is rotated.