Off-the-shelf panel mounted scrollwheel rotary encoder?

[igendel]

Hi all,

A client came up with a request that's beyond my experience. basically the product needs a scrollwheel, similar in form and function to that of a PC mouse, but is has to be set in a 1.4mm metal panel. To make matters worse, the wheel needs to be perpendicular to the internal PCB (like an "L" from the user's perspective), although I could connect them with wires if needed. It also has to be off-the-shelf because it's a small production and there's no way to get a custom part.

I looked at rotary encoders but so far couldn't find a kind with a scrollwheel (only thumbwheels), or one that can be mounted to a panel easily the way I need it.

Any ideas? thanks!

[fcb]

The synth community often use something similar for MODULATION or MOD (often paired up with PITCHBEND) - they'll be loads of examples of homemade ones and perhaps a few OEM types.

PITCHBEND usually has a spring centre return - beware.

[Fungus]

PITCHBEND usually has a spring centre return - beware.

And MODULATION has a limited range of movement - doesn't turn infinitely like a scroll wheel.


I think the search term the OP wants is "optical thumbwheel encoder"

[CM800]

http://uk.farnell.com/alps/ec10e1220505/encoder-horiz-10mm-24det-12ppr/dp/2064974

This is what is usually used, you may be able to buy the wheel itself from aliexpress or similar

Problem is, most mouses use part of the injection moulding to hold the wheel in position you will likely need some machined parts or 3d print....

[igendel]

Thanks for the suggestions, the MOD wheels I found so far look ideal in terms of mounting, but that they are indeed limited range. In the optical encoder domain I have my eye on the F-16 Fighter variant - a single unit will probably cost more than my client's entire budget 
https://www.consolite.co.uk/air/control-potentiometers-and-encoders/

The EC10E1220505 needs the wheel and extra mechanical setup for both, again not my domain. If you have any other ideas I'll be happy to hear!

[CM800]

I'd imagine, the reality is, unless you can find a company in china that makes the assemblies for another company who makes mouses and are willing to fob some off to you...

you're gonna need to get mechanical. Sorry!

[igendel]

I'd imagine, the reality is, unless you can find a company in china that makes the assemblies for another company who makes mouses and are willing to fob some off to you...

you're gonna need to get mechanical. Sorry!

Yes. Well, at this stage it'll probably be much easier for me to convince the client to use an alternative interface device
Thanks again,