Abstract: System and methods for a DC powered hydraulic system capable of providing control over pressurized hydraulic fluid delivered to directional valves without the need for a PTO and/or a proportional valve. The hydraulic system controls the output from a battery to a direct current hydraulic pump.

Abstract: System and methods for a DC powered hydraulic system capable of providing control over pressurized hydraulic fluid delivered to directional valves without the need for a PTO and/or a proportional valve. The hydraulic system controls the output from a battery to a direct current hydraulic pump.

Abstract: System and methods for a DC powered hydraulic system capable of providing control over pressurized hydraulic fluid delivered to directional valves without the need for a PTO and/or a proportional valve. The hydraulic system controls the output from a battery to a direct current hydraulic pump.

Abstract: System and methods for a DC powered hydraulic system capable of providing control over pressurized hydraulic fluid delivered to directional valves without the need for a PTO and/or a proportional valve. The hydraulic system controls the output from a battery to a direct current hydraulic pump.

Abstract: A system and software for controlling output devices used in association with machinery is disclosed. The system includes a control module which may be connected to a personal digital assistant (PDA), personal pocket PC, personal computer, organizer, cell phone, or other data storage device. The data storage device has programmed within it particularized manufacturer information for various input devices and output devices available on the market. The system allows an operator to select a particular manufacturer, as well as product information, including product model number and operating parameters. The machine can then be calibrated such that the input device being used, as well as the output device manufacturer information, is used to dynamically adjust, monitor or perform diagnostics on the machine. The system allows for on-site calibration of the machine controllers.

Abstract: A system and software for controlling output devices used in association with machinery is disclosed. The system includes a control module which may be connected to a personal digital assistant (PDA), personal pocket PC, personal computer, organizer, cell phone, or other data storage device. The data storage device has programmed within it particularized manufacturer information for various input devices and output devices available on the market. The system allows an operator to select a particular manufacturer, as well as product information, including product model number and operating parameters. The machine can then be calibrated such that the input device being used, as well as the output device manufacturer information, is used to dynamically adjust, monitor or perform diagnostics on the machine. The system allows for on-site calibration of the machine controllers.

Abstract: A self-propelled concrete finishing trowel has a power steering control system that steers the machine by tilting the driven shaft(s) of the rotor assembly or assemblies of the machine without requiring the imposition of fatiguing actuating forces by the machine's operator. The steering control system includes at least one electric actuator, such as a ball screw actuator, coupled to each rotor assembly of the machine and controlled by an operator-manipulated controller. The controller preferably includes at least one, and possibly two, joysticks that can be manipulated by the operator to steer the machine in the direction of joystick motion and preferably at a speed that is proportional to the magnitude of joystick movement. In the typical case in which the machine is steered by pivoting a gearbox of at least one rotor assembly about two axes, a separate actuator is provided for each axis of gearbox pivoting.

Abstract: A control lever is provided for actuating a deadman's switch or any other switch actuatable by a lever. The control lever is resilient and includes a base portion fixed to the support on which the switch is mounted and an actuator portion which is formed integral with the base portion and which extends over the switch. The actuator portion is deflectable into contact with the switch without the interaction of any pivot element, hinge, or any other connection of the control lever to the support. The lever can be easily actuated with any portion of the operator's hand and preferably is sufficiently resilient to prevent the function of the switch from being defeated by the insertion of a facing object between the lever and the switch and to prevent or at least inhibit damage to the switch due to overpressure on the lever. The lever is preferably pliable and thus can be bent or twisted in virtually any direction without damaging the lever.

Abstract: A direct drive joystick has a contactless system for sensing the position of the joystick lever and having valve drivers which are positioned within the joystick, and which are directly connected to coils of a proportional valve. The joystick thus is not prone to failure due to internal friction of its sensing elements and at the same time is capable of directly driving valves without the provision of any other devices between the joystick and the valves. The joystick including the valve driver is rugged, compact and can be easily installed. The valve driver can be adjusted by an operator who is simultaneously actuating the joystick. The operational status of one or more of the joystick, the valve being controlled by the joystick, and the power source for the valve and joystick are visually displayed at a location which can be easily viewed by the joystick operator. Operation of the valve driver and thus of the joystick is prevented upon failure of a signal wire or upon generation of a joystick fault signal.