How much clearance do you get heightwise for your controls?
The short answer is 5 1/2 inches near the back of the panel.
The long answer is ...
On Sybil, the limiting factor is actually the front door, which cuts into the control panel drum's circle. The 7" tall trigger grips on Panel 5 can actually roll into the cabinet just fine. But the if the Trigger grips are left in place on Panel 5, you could not close the front door when using Panel 1.
Also, it varies a little between panels, as there are actually 2 control panel profiles. Panels 1 - 3 have a normal incline. Panels 4 & 5 are level to the floor.
Whats the Diameter of the Circle/star?
28 1/2 inches.
I'm also not completely clear how you've got the rotation and catches working (this is me being a bit stupid I think) - have you got any more info/pics on this?
On each side of the control panel drum, there are 5 ball catches around the axle.
On the cabinet sides the metal plate that holds the axle also has 5 holes to receive the ball catches.
The effect is a little like a dented dial on a radio.
In reality, closing the front door is what really locks the panel in place. There is a ledge near the top of the front door. The backsplash from the panel under the one in use rests on the ledge. I can actually lean on any control panel, and it won't budge. (Thank you 1UP!)
Check out the Quicktime movie I posted on my homepage to see the panel in action. You can actually hear the catches snap into place.
- Mark