Multi-parameter variable scale rotary switch
US5187630A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 3, 1991 |
| Grant date | Feb 16, 1993 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 3, 2011 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S200/34
- WIPO fieldAudio-visual technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A switch that can vary at least two controllable parameters and can vary the upper, lower and any intermediary limits of the switch. The switch has a pair of nested coaxial rotary knobs each attached by shafts to sensors that determine the radial position of a reference point on each knob. The knobs rotate with respect to each other and are constructed to allow rotation of the knobs with one hand. The sensors are attached to the controls of the parameters, such that rotation of the knobs varies the output of the parameters. The sensors are coupled to a magnetic clutch that engages and prevents rotation of one of the knobs, when the knob is rotated into a predetermined radial position. A computer can be connected to the magnetic clutch and sensors. The computer receives input signals from the sensors and produces an output signal to the clutch, to engage the clutch and prevent rotation of the knob in accordance with a computer program within the computer. The integration of a computer allows the limits of a switch to be controlled by changing the computer program. The switch has a button in the center that can be pushed in relative to the knobs. The button is attached by a shaft to …
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.