Display knob controllers based on maXTouch technology enable innovative human-machine interface (HMI) solutions by combining mechanical knobs with existing multi-touch displays 

Many automotive and industrial touch human-machine interface (HMI) designers are looking to combine the benefits of mechanical rotary encoder inputs with the flexibility of modern multi-touch displays. microchip Technology Inc. today announced the launch of its maXTouch® technology-based Knob on Display (KoD™) controller, the first family of automotive-grade touchscreen controllers that natively support capacitive rotary encoder detection and reporting, as well as mechanical switches on top of the touch panel. Unlike traditional mechanical rotary encoders, this new technology allows the knob to be mounted directly on the display, eliminating the need for holes in the panel or any customization of the touch pattern, resulting in increased design flexibility and system cost savings. 

KoD technology eliminates the need for custom touch sensor patterns, allowing designers to easily implement different numbers, shapes and positions of knobs to suit a variety of end-user products. Custom configurations can be adjusted without changing the embedded firmware of the maXTouch KoD touch controller, resulting in faster and more flexible development cycles. maXTouch KoD controllers enable designers to maintain the comfort of rotary encoder input devices, yet combine them with modern and innovative in-car designs using smart surfaces and multi-touch displays. 

Designers can also expect to experience the added benefit of easier construction of sealed human-machine interface (HMI) modules, which are becoming increasingly popular in home appliances and industrial applications. The use of knobs on the display will also increase end-user safety, for example, by eliminating the need for users to look at the display to adjust sound or air conditioning while driving. 

Modern user interfaces often use multi-touch displays, eliminating the need for mechanical buttons for cutting-edge designs," said Clayton Pillion, vice president of Microchip Technology's Human Interface Business Unit. However, functions such as temperature or audio volume are still best controlled through rotary encoders. The new maXTouch KoD technology enables rapid deployment by offering a family of turnkey touch controllers that support capacitive rotary encoders and a comprehensive range of specialized tools that combine the benefits of both modes." 

With the release of the maXTouch KoD family, Microchip offers two versions to give customers the freedom and flexibility to choose how they implement capacitive rotary encoders. the kD version enables customers to choose a knob design partner and create their own solution using a reference design developed in conjunction with BNL Bearings, while offering application-specific options for fully customized designs. 

The MK version supports the Magic Knob™ developed by Panasonic Industrial Co. While maintaining the flexibility to install standard touch sensor patterns, the Microchip Panasonic Magic Knob (MPMK) solution also provides a high level of customization options for rotary and push tactile feedback and top cover material selection. 

Development Tools 

Microchip offers a complete set of hardware and software development tools to shorten the development cycle for using capacitive knobs. 

- Hardware. 

o ATEVK-MXT2912TDAT-A: 15.6" / ATEVK-MXT2113TDAT-A: 13.3" OGS touch panel kit, including development board with USB bridge. 

o Capacitive rotary encoder knob reference design with 30 positioning points (detent) and push function 

- Software. 

omaXTouch® Studio (IDE - development tool) with dedicated KoD series plug-in for knob design and parameterization 

Availability 

The maXTouch Knob Display (KoD) controller is available now. To purchase, please contact sales@vanceer.com

The maXTouch KoD family includes. 

- ATMXT2912TD-A KD version; up to 112 touch channels; LQFP 176 

- ATMXT2113TD-A KD version; up to 97 touch channels; LQFP 144 

- ATMXT2912TD-A MK version;up to 112 touch channels;LQFP 176 

- ATMXT2113TD-A MK version;up to 97 touch channels;LQFP 144