A computer aided design (CAD), utilizing
Rhino3D modeling software, is shown below.
A stepper motor drives an octagonal disc to implement a 3-bit mechanical encoding device. The aluminum disc diameter is
~ 0.8 inches. An optical sensor disc is incorporated for checking a 'home' position for the encoder disc.
Design date: July 20, 2009
It was back in 2006, when I started modeling with
Nick Carter.
I would email preliminary diagrams and a description for some mechanism required for an ongoing R&D project. His 3D model then rapidly evolved into something that could be presented to a contract engineering client. Nick continues to be both a Rhino3D whiz, always available when I get stumped, and a source of pragmatical wisdom related to a wide range of mechanical devices - including
airguns!