Rotary encoder

Abstract

A rotary encoder used mainly in a peripheral apparatus for computers, a portable telephone, an on-board electronic device for automobiles, and the like, in which an encoder unit and a linearly-driven type component are operable by a rotating manipulation and a tilting manipulation of an operating axle. The rotary encoder provides accuracy and is capable of producing a large number of output signals without requiring an increase in external dimensions. The rotary encoder is so constructed that flexible contacts and make resilient contact with movable contacts on a peripheral surface of a cylindrical rotor in a main unit of the encoder. The operating axle is pivotally supported by fitting it in an axle-supporting portion of the rotor in a manner that the operating axle is rotatable together with the rotor and is also tiltable. A cylindrical operating knob is attached to the operating axle that protrudes sideways from the rotor, and a push switch is disposed in a position to be in contact with a distal end of the same operating axle, and thereby making the main unit of the encoder operable by rotating manipulation and the push switch by tilting manipulation of the operating axle.