Parametric Encoder Wheel

thingiverse

This parametric encoder wheel lets you adjust parameters such as circumference, internal width, shoulder height/width, mounting hole diameter, number of timing holes, and more for captive nuts, alignment/snap-together pins, bolt holes, and inset of those timing holes. Most renderings are designed for a 608 bearing, sized to fit another pinch bearing. The wheel circumference (less shoulders) differs slightly between metric and SAE versions, with hole sizes/spacing varying based on desired distance between holes. Accuracy is maintained at the surface of the wheel. New updates provide important information on which renderings belong to which version. Resolution is defined by the circumference of the wheel (without shoulders) divided by the number of holes, and can be effectively doubled by counting both rising and falling edges. To print STL models, attach one encoder wheel cap and one encoder wheel onto an 8mm bolt with a washer, cap, another washer or two, a 608 bearing, and a nut. The 2.5mm version uses the latest v0.9 of the openSCAD file and features like captive nuts, bearing constraints, and pins for joining parts. Tweak parameters in the "User-defined values" section to customize general encoder wheel settings, captive nut traps, constraints, pins or holes, and cap design. Capture nuts allow tightening onto a shaft or bearing, while constraints add material to partially block mounting holes for bearing constraining. Pins or holes facilitate snapping, gluing, or bolting the cap to the encoder wheel. Experiment with printing and share your experiences to improve results.