Multi-axis potentiometer

A multi-axis potentiometer according to this invention is capable of determining actuator movement along multiple axes. The potentiometer includes a hollow, semi-spherical shell lined internally with a resistive element. Electrical contacts are attached across from each other along the resistive element near an opening of the shell to supply a source voltage or current to the resistive element. A pair of sensors are arranged on the end of an armature to contact the resistive element. The sensors in the end of the armature are used to sense voltage or current levels at the points where they contact the resistive element. These voltage or current levels are used to determine spherical coordinates corresponding to the location of the contact point and to determine an angle of rotation of the armature relative to the resistive element. A slidable handle can further be provided to a stem of the armature. The slidable handle contains a sensor to contact a resistive element located on the stem of the armature. A source voltage or current is applied to the resistive element and the handle sensor senses a voltage or current level at a contact point between the handle sensor and the resistive element. This voltage or current level can then be used to determine a position of the handle relative to the stem, corresponding to an elevation of the handle.