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Better Rotary Encoder: Instructables

This document describes how to build a 3D printed rotary encoder that is cheaper and easier to use than off-the-shelf encoders. It uses a 3D printed base and knob parts, a bearing, and two microswitches. The encoder provides clicky feedback as it is turned. The instructions explain how to assemble the parts, position the microswitches for accurate switching, and wire it up for use with an Arduino as simple buttons. A video provides additional details on the assembly process.

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Rosana
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48 views4 pages

Better Rotary Encoder: Instructables

This document describes how to build a 3D printed rotary encoder that is cheaper and easier to use than off-the-shelf encoders. It uses a 3D printed base and knob parts, a bearing, and two microswitches. The encoder provides clicky feedback as it is turned. The instructions explain how to assemble the parts, position the microswitches for accurate switching, and wire it up for use with an Arduino as simple buttons. A video provides additional details on the assembly process.

Uploaded by

Rosana
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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instructables

Better Rotary Encoder

by miroslavus

If you ever tried to use off the shelf rotary encoder for With a 3D printer and couple of microswitches you
your project you were most likely disappointing. can build one too. Each step on the encoder leaves a
Whether it was due to the difficulty of set up or the satisfying click and you could also designed your own
imprecise controls. I had the same problem so I customized button. Please Check out the video I've
decided to fix it. I have designed 3D printable encoder made too :)
that is not just incredibly cheap but also a lot easier to
use. Video

https://youtu.be/I41c4Bo2q7I

Better Rotary Encoder: Page 1


Step 1: Tools and Materials

tools:

3D printer / 3D printingservice
M3 tap
hot glue gun

materials:

PLA or any other plastic


2 microswitches (almost any will do. I'm using MSW-13)
skateboard bearing | 608zz | the one from fidget spinner
M3 screw
hot glue
super glue

And of course you'll need the .STL files which are right here. They can also be found on thingiverse:

https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2796327

Download
http://www.instructables.com/ORIG/F0J/6XA6/JDOUSJ0N/F0J6XA6JDOUSJ0N.stl
…

Download
http://www.instructables.com/ORIG/FJL/3FVU/JDOUSJ1X/FJL3FVUJDOUSJ1X.stl
…

Download
http://www.instructables.com/ORIG/FKS/BKLG/JDOUSJ37/FKSBKLGJDOUSJ37.stl
…

Download
http://www.instructables.com/ORIG/FOM/N2AH/JDOUSJ39/FOMN2AHJDOUSJ39.stl
…

Step 2: Assembly

We'll start with the base where we need to tap a M3 the bottom part. The press fit should be good enough
hole. Next we can push our M3 screw trough the and you shouldn't use glue. The top part needs to be
switching stick. There should be enough clearance for glued on top of that with superglue. Don't use too
both parts to move freely. Now it can be screwed on much glue because it will drip into the bearing and
the base leaving it some play room. cease it. With the whole knob assembled it can also
be press fitted on the base.
Next we can move to the knob. Insert the bearing in

Better Rotary Encoder: Page 2


Step 3: Positioning Microswitches

This is tedious task. It doesn't matter which side you place. Repeat the same process on the other side
start with and the first one will be a bit more difficult. and you are good to go.
The microswitch must be positioned exactly at a point
where it's being pressed just before the stick returns Of course you can use any glue you want but I've
to it's resting position. I would suggest positioning the found the hot works just fine. The switches don't
microswitch closer to the knob as the stick rotates move and in case you place you switch bit too far or
more the further it is from it's pivot point. Once you bit too close you can always redo it.
find the sweet spot simply use hot glue to keep it in

Better Rotary Encoder: Page 3


Step 4: Wiring

Since these are just two microswitches there is no special wiring unlike with regular rotary encoder. If you want to
use it with arduino then just wire it up as a button. This is what's really great about this project.

Never had a problem with the cheapest-of-cheap rotary encoders, which are also much more
compact. The secret is in using decent software.

Better Rotary Encoder: Page 4

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