detented

Detented refers to a mechanical feature in which movement of a component is restricted to discrete positions by one or more detents. A detent is typically a small projection or groove combined with a spring-loaded element, such as a ball, pin, or pawl, that engages the notch or track to hold the part in a chosen position. The detent exerts a restoring force that must be overcome to move to the next position, producing tactile and often audible feedback.

Detented mechanisms are used in both rotary and linear applications. In rotary detents, a spring-loaded ball or pin seating in notches on a rotating element creates a series of selectable angular positions and a precise stepping action. Linear detents rely on a spring-loaded plunger that drops into grooves or calibrated slots along a sliding element. Some designs use friction alone to resist movement without discrete stops, while others employ magnetic, cam, or cantilever configurations to achieve similar positioning without visible notches. In many cases, detented systems are designed to provide a specific detent force and travel distance between positions.

Common applications include control knobs and selector switches, camera and audio equipment (such as shutter speeds, exposure, volume, and tuning dials), instrument panels, and precision indexing devices. Important design considerations cover the number and spacing of detents, the required detent force, durability and wear over time, environmental sealing, and whether tactile or audible feedback is desirable. Detented mechanisms are distinguished from non-detented controls by their ability to hold a setting in place until an intentional input is applied to move to the next position.