The answer to the last question is Yes.
The idea is that you could use phase-shifted rotaries that turn on A, then B in one direction... B, then A in the other direction... but are off in the detent.
However, you could connect all the B outputs in common, while A is individual per switch. When you see the A change, you simply also check the common B input... if it's off then you're turning one direction, else if it's on then you're turning the other direction. A is the trigger, B is the direction.
That's why the doc says you can only turn one of these common switches at a time. Turning more than one simultaneously could give a false directions.
Best, Kev
