Sensing & Controls News

Miniature Illuminated Thumbwheel Control

Elobau Sensor Technology Inc. has introduced a miniature thumbwheel for various off-highway and industrial applications. The new 175D thumbwheel is designed to be incorporated in the knob of a joystick or a multifunctional handle for a shifter or into a control panel and it is designed to provide an accurate proportional control of auxiliary functions.

The 175D control is based on Hall effect technology and provides two output signals which can be combined in eight different options, including 0.5 to 4.5 V ratiometric outputs proportional to the rotation of the thumbwheel, as well as switching outputs. Typical applications might include vehicle uses such as control panel, armrest, shifter, single or dual axis joystick, or any control panel application on industrial equipment, remote control, mobile equipment or other machinery.

The new function illuminated concept of the 175D thumbwheel is designed to allow the operator to clearly identify which function is activated, even in the presence of adverse lighting conditions. The illumination is provided by three different LEDs or one multifunction LED that will switch colors when the function is activated. Available colors are red, green, white, yellow, orange and blue. The thumbwheel is illuminated in neutral (white) color when no functions are activated. The shape and color of the actuation cap are selectable, and standard operating angles are +/-10º and +/-30º. Detents are available upon request.

Non-contact sensing technology ensures a longer service life, the company said. The 175D thumbwheel operates in a range from -40ºC to +85ºC (-13ºF to +175ºF), with an IP67 protection class. A redundant output signal version is available for safety related applications.