Building a Better Automotive Rotary Controller
A DIY enthusiast has created an improved rotary controller for automotive use, inspired by the existing iDrive system in BMWs. The new design features a rotary knob with integrated technology and a custom 3D printed housing. This controller aims to enhance user interaction with a vehicle's infotainment system and other digital features.
- ▪The rotary controller is based on the Crowpanel 1.28" rotary knob with a push-button encoder and a screen.
- ▪A 3D printed housing was designed to integrate the knob into the vehicle's interior.
- ▪The controller will manage various vehicle parameters and lighting features.
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Building A Better Automotive Rotary Controller No comments by: Zoe Skyforest May 21, 2026 Title: Copy Short Link: Copy If you’ve ever spent time in a modern BMW, you’ve probably fussed about with the goofy iDrive controller. It’s a rotary knobbery slidery thing that just never really feels that good to use. [Garage Tinkering] was inspired to try and build a better version for his own car. The first order of business was to choose the right knob as the core of the build. [Garage Tinkering] eventually landed on the Crowpanel 1.28″ rotary knob which integrates a push-button encoder, a round screen, and an ESP32-S3 all into one convenient package.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Hackaday.
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