Abstract: A driving operation device includes an input portion, an output portion and a form modifying portion that transmits an amount of operation of the input portion to the output portion. The form modifying portion can modify an orientation of the input portion depending on a position of the output portion. This can maintain the input portion vertical or horizontal, for example. The form modifying portion also can modify a ratio of an amount of operation of the input portion to an amount of change in the output result based upon the position of the output portion.

Abstract: A creep steering control system for a utility vehicle is operable from a rearward-facing position. The creep steering control system includes a pivotable actuator alongside a rearward-facing seat that provides electronic output based on the position of the actuator. A linkage is provided between the pivotable actuator and steering wheel behind the seat.

Abstract: A retaining strip arranged to impede the rotation of a stop screw is disclosed. The retaining strip connects with the stop screw on both sides of an attachment bracket. The retaining strip is stretched over the bracket and applies a pressure to the screw that serves to maintain screw rotational position during vehicle operation. The retaining strip does not hamper the adjustment of the screw during adjustment.

Abstract: An operator's seat for heavy equipment having optimized switch arrangements for controlling the equipment is provided, in which arrangements of various kinds of switches and components of operating devices that are frequently used by an operator in the seat due to the characteristic of the equipment are integrated within a radius that an operator's hand reaches (i.e. in a hand arm operation zone), and thus physical inconvenience and fatigue that the operator who repeatedly operates working devices for a long time suffers can be reduced.

Abstract: The invention relates to a steering actuation device for a vehicle, in particular for an industrial truck, having an operating element for inputting steering commands by exerting torques on the operating element, having a sensor arrangement for monitoring the steering command input state of the operating element and having a control device for converting the steering command input data detected by the sensor arrangement into control information for a steering drive apparatus of a wheel, which can be steered, of the vehicle, the sensor arrangement detecting the respective steering command input state of the operating element by means of monitoring the elastic material deformation, in particular torsion, of an element, which is subjected to elastic deformation by means of a steering command input torque on the operating element and is coupled to or associated with the operating element.

Abstract: A control console for a machine having a seat with a plane of symmetry is disclosed. The machine also has an armrest extending from the seat in a forward direction generally parallel with the plane of symmetry. The armrest has an upper surface intended to support an operator's forearm. The control console includes a base operatively connected to the armrest, and at least one operator interface device operatively connected to the base. The at least one operator interface device has a neutral axis inclined at an oblique angle relative to the upper surface of the armrest. The at least one operator interface device is pivotal in a fore/aft direction to initiate only a single function of the machine, the fore/aft direction being rotated outward away from the seat a predetermined angle relative to the forward direction of the armrest.

Abstract: A vehicle comprises a chassis, a mechanical system, and a control system configured to control the mechanical assembly. The mechanical system is mounted on the chassis and configured to be moved through a range of positions responsive to operator inputs from a human operator. The control system processing logic configured to generate output signals for the output devices based on input signals from the directional controller to thereby control movement of the boom assembly in accordance with the operator inputs. The communication system is configured to communicate signals, including the input signals and the output signals, between the directional controller, the processing logic, and the output devices, the communication system at least partially comprising a radio-frequency transmission medium.

Abstract: A mobile vehicle is disclosed which includes a plurality of proportional controls to control the operation of a first set of equipment and a second set of equipment.

Abstract: A motorized wheeled vehicle includes a support frame, a head tube secured on the support frame, a front fork pivotally mounted on the head tube, a front wheel rotatably mounted on the front fork, a steering tube pivotally mounted on the head tube and secured on the front fork, a speed reduction control switch mounted on the head tube and provided with a plurality of contact points, and a contact board mounted on the steering tube and movable relative to the speed reduction control switch to press or detach the contact points of the speed reduction control switch. Thus, the speed reduction control switch has a multi-stage and micro-adjustment speed reduction function so as to reduce the speed of the motorized wheeled vehicle gradually when the motorized wheeled vehicle is turned.

Abstract: A human energy harvesting and storage system that captures energy from various human activities and stores that energy on a vehicle to be used for various vehicle applications. In one embodiment, piezoelectric devices, or other types of energy generating devices, are provided in the seat of the vehicle that generate electricity from the weight and movement of a person sitting in the seat that is collected by a suitable electrical storage device. The electrical storage device provides power to a power port in the vehicle so that various devices can be plugged into the power port to be operated. In alternate embodiments, the energy is collected outside of the vehicle by human activity, and the storage device is brought into the vehicle to be plugged into the power port.

Abstract: A control means for an agricultural tractor is disclosed which has a switching element carrier arranged in proximity to the leading end region of an arm rest of a driver's seat. The control means has a large number of switches for controlling various vehicle units and the carrier has a hand rest (3, 4) provided with a spherical surface for the palm of the vehicle driver's hand. An adjustment wheel (14, 19) is provided for controlling a switching element (12, 24), the adjustment wheel having a setting rim (14a, 19a) which extends from the switching element carrier in a region which can be reached by the fingers of the hand resting on the hand rest (3, 4). Preferably the control means is provided with two adjustment wheels (14, 19) one above the other, each adjustment wheel having a setting rim (14a,19a) which can be reached by the fingers of a hand resting on the hand rest.

Abstract: The invention relates to a transmission, in particular between a drive shaft and a wheel driving shaft of an engine, in particular of an automotive engine, such as a riding mower engine, whereby this transmission is of the belt-controlled variable-speed drive unit type (2) combined with a clutch device (7).

Abstract: A hand-actuated operating device for an operator's control unit for an industrial truck, having a stationary, raised rest for the ball of the thumb that is disposed laterally beside and in front of the standing or sitting operator, including an upper support area on which the ball of the thumb of the operator's hand is adapted to be placed from top, a forward surface facing away from the operator and a surface facing the operator, wherein the forward and backward surfaces are dimensioned so to allow the support for the ball of the thumb to be gripped between the fingers and a proximal portion of the ball that faces the wrist, a portion located in front of the forward surface which is lowered with respect to the support area is disposed such as to allow the fingers of the hand resting on the support area to be placed at an angle, and at least one control element for a function of the industrial truck is disposed on the end of the lowered portion that is located opposite the support area so as to enable its act

Abstract: A hand rail for a walkie/rider truck and a conversely U-shaped hand rail has a grab bar, and a control housing being arranged on the grab bar which includes control elements for the lifting and lowering of the load carrying fork, for the horn and for a fast speed mode. The housing is located at the lower side of the grab bar such and the grab bar in the area of the control housing is formed such that the grab bar can be seized by the operator above the control housing in order to obtain a secure support and/or to actuate a control element.

Abstract: A cab structure for a vehicle includes a driver's seat and a steering device arranged at least essentially in front of the driver's seat, with the steering device including a steering wheel arranged on a steering column, with the steering column being arranged to be able to be pivoted around a pivot shaft from a first raised active position in front of and at least partially above the driver's seat, to a second inactive position, with the steering device in addition comprising a folding mechanism arranged for adjusting the steering device between the positions. In its second inactive position, the steering device is folded away essentially under the driver's seat.

Abstract: A control console for a work machine having at least one work tool has a rest and a plurality of operator control devices. The plurality of operator control devices are adjustable relative to the rest and configured to control at least one function of the at least one work tool.

Abstract: A motor vehicle steering control provides two degrees of freedom with a one-handed operation that is simple and intuitive. The control is achieved with a joystick control movable from side to side (e.g. as in an aircraft) in combination with a yoke control which rotates on an axis (e.g. like the steering wheel of a car). The yoke control (giving one degree of freedom) is mounted to the joystick control, the latter of which adds a second degree of freedom. The steering of both the front and rear wheels of a variety of vehicles may be controlled, including vehicles where the operator rides with the vehicle and, as well, remote controlled vehicles where the operator is situated remote from the vehicle. The latter case contemplates remote controlled steering not only of full scale vehicles designed to move or haul some load but also model vehicles such as radio-controlled model cars and the like.

Abstract: A modular system for remotely controlling an automotive vehicle is provided. The system issues commands responsive to a radio control transmitter, which controls the vehicle by its steering device and respective control pedals for acceleration and braking. The system includes a steer linkage, a steering motor, a pedal linkage, a linear actuator, a radio receiver, and a digital motor controller. By employing a chain pulley, the steer linkage removably attaches to and controllably rotates the steering device. The steering motor conveys torque to the steer linkage. The pedal linkage removably connects to and pushes against at least one of the control pedals using pinned moment levers. The linear actuator transmits force to the pedal linkage. The pedal linkage may be removably mounted on a linkage platform. The radio receiver receives command signals from the transmitter and communicates with the steering motor and the linear actuator via the digital motor controller.

Abstract: A control system for a work machine. The control system allows an operator to selectively maintain control of a ground drive, a work tool, or both the ground drive and the work tool. The system provides a foot pedal movable between multiple positions. The foot pedal allows an operator to selectively hold the position of one or both of the ground drive control and work tool control. When the foot pedal is in a first position, the work tool control and ground drive control are not affected. When the foot pedal is in a second position, the position of the work tool control is maintained, while the ground drive control is not affected. When the foot pedal is in a third position, the position of the work tool control is maintained and the position of the ground drive control is maintained. A work tool control lock is used to prevent the work tool control from engaging when the foot pedal is in the second position or the third position.

Abstract: A control system for a construction vehicle, such as a motor grader, is provided. The control system includes a plurality of joysticks supported by an operator seat assembly of the motor grader.

Abstract: A control system for a construction vehicle, such as a motor grader, is provided. The control system includes a plurality of joysticks supported by an operator seat assembly of the motor grader.

Abstract: A panel mount cable control assembly is provided which is useful with a vehicle having controllable mechanisms such as a throttle and choke of an internal combustion engine. The cable control assembly includes independently actuated shifters operatively connected to respective Bowden cables connected to the controllable mechanisms, which each shifter having a different mode of operation. A first shifter is preferably maintained in a desired position through frictional engagement, while a second shifter operates for a free return though a spring which biases the shifter to an initial position. Both shifters are preferably mounted to substantially enclose a chamber of a housing, and are positioned for side-by-side independent pivotal movement with the shifters in abutment.

Abstract: A human-machine interface assembly includes a user interface, a first null breakout force mechanism, and a second null breakout force mechanism. The first null breakout force mechanism is coupled to the user interface and is configured to supply the null breakout force to the user interface at a first force magnitude when the user interface is in the null position. The second null break out force mechanism is adapted to receive an engagement signal and is operable, in response to the engagement signal, to engage the user interface and supply the null breakout force to the user interface at a second force magnitude, which is greater than the first force magnitude, when the user interface is in the null position.

Abstract: An input device 30A of an electric steering device 1 includes a pair of steering wheels 31A, 31B. When both the steering wheels 31A, 31B or one of the steering wheels 31A, 31B. is operated being rotated, front wheels 9 can be steered. Further, when both the steering wheels 31A, 31B or one of the steering wheels 31A, 31B is slid in the longitudinal direction of a vehicle, the front wheels 9 can be steered.

Abstract: A vehicle comprises a chassis, a mechanical system, and a control system configured to control the mechanical assembly. The mechanical system is mounted on the chassis and configured to be moved through a range of positions responsive to operator inputs from a human operator. The control system processing logic configured to generate output signals for the output devices based on input signals from the directional controller to thereby control movement of the boom assembly in accordance with the operator inputs. The communication system is configured to communicate signals, including the input signals and the output signals, between the directional controller, the processing logic, and the output devices, the communication system at least partially comprising a radio-frequency transmission medium.

Abstract: The invention describes vehicles where the steering effect of the driver-selected wheel angles is made identical to the steering effect of positively and independently driving the driven wheels. Means of delivering most of the power to each of the driven wheels by means of shaft drives is also described. Here speed-correcting differentials are close coupled to each driven wheel where the first input to the said differentials is by means of shaft drives, and the second input to the said differentials is provided by means of speed-correcting hydraulic or electric motors.

Abstract: A vehicle (1) having a central control unit (13) which supervises operation of active components of the vehicle (1), and modifies the operating parameters of the active components to modify the dynamic performance of the vehicle (1); and a selection device (15) which is located inside the passenger compartment (11) of the vehicle (1), and is operated by the driver to transmit a selected dynamic performance of the vehicle (1) to the central control unit (13); the selection device (15) includes a switch (16) fitted to the steering wheel (12) of the vehicle (1) and rotatable between at least four different positions (A, B, C, D), each corresponding to a respective dynamic performance of the vehicle (1).

Abstract: A control system for use with a mobile machine. The control system including a hand-grip bar having right and left curved sections. The curved sections each define an approximate center. The control system further including joysticks positioned at the approximate center of the curved sections. The curved sections each have a radius such that an operator can operate one or both joysticks without releasing his grip from the hand-grip bar.

Abstract: A method for conducting the motion of a transporter under riderless conditions. The transporter has two laterally disposed primary wheels. In accordance with the method, an input is received via a user input disposed on the transporter and a control signal corresponding to the input received is generated. Then a torque is applied to the laterally disposed wheels so as propel the transporter on the basis of at least the control signal. The control signal may correspond to either a commanded torque or to a commanded transporter velocity. The torque may include coadded terms where the terms are, respectively, proportional to the control signal, to a counteracting artificial friction proportional to the common velocity of the wheels, and a term proportional to the differential rotation of the wheels to facilitate turning of the transporter.

Abstract: The present invention includes a foot-operated accessory pedal located on the floor area of a vehicle interior. The accessory pedal is depressible to activate one of a plurality of vehicle functions. Further included with the present invention is a hand-operated input device operative to assign which of the plurality of vehicle functions the accessory pedal will influence upon selective depressions. Moreover, a display unit is included operative to indicate which of the plurality of vehicle functions the accessory pedal is operative to influence.

Abstract: Aground engaging vehicle having a frame, a power unit connected to the frame, at least one ground traction device, a power transfer device directing power from the power unit to the at least one ground traction device. The control system controls the power transfer device. An input device accepts commands from an operator and provides a signal to the control system. The input device includes a first bracket, a second bracket pivotally connected to the first bracket and a joystick device connected to the first bracket.

Abstract: A bicycle control device is provided with a control lever and a lever bracket. The lever bracket is movably supporting the control lever. The lever bracket includes a bracket body and an electrical connector housing. The bracket body has a bicycle mounting portion and a control lever mounting portion. The electrical connector housing is movably supported on the bracket body between a retracted position and an accessible position.

Abstract: A control system for a work machine, having an articulated joint and a work implement with at least one axis of rotation, has a first lever with a first longitudinal axis. A twist angle of the first lever about the first longitudinal axis is related to an articulation speed of the work machine. The control system also has a second lever having a second longitudinal axis. A twist angle of the second lever about the second longitudinal axis is related to a rotation speed of the work implement about the at least one axis of rotation. A plurality of operator control devices are disposed on the first and second levers.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a computer based control system for controlling hydraulic and electromechanical actuators on a power machine, such as a skid steer loader. The computer based control system is configured to implement a number of features to enhance certain operational aspects of the power machine.

Abstract: A mechanism for controlling: (a) the throttling of an engine or other power source of a vehicle, and (b) the steering of the vehicle, the mechanism comprising an element moveable in a linear direction to control the throttling of the power source and rotatable to control the steering of the vehicle. Moving the element in a first linear direction increases the throttling of the power source and moving the element in a second linear direction decreases the throttling of the power source. Rotating the element in one rotational direction steers the vehicle in the right direction and rotating the element in an other rotational direction steers the vehicle in the left direction. The mechanism may further comprise a rod pivotally secured or otherwise secured to an other component of the vehicle. The element may be in the form of a handle rotatably secured to the rod.

Abstract: A game having a floor, a plurality of walls rising up from said floor defining a play area, a game piece, at least one target positioned proximate the plurality of walls, including a plurality of multi-planar apertures operatively arranged to accept the game piece, and a vehicle, operatively arranged to be driven by a player, the vehicle having a bumper positioned circumferentially about a base of the vehicle.

Abstract: A brake-pedal operating rod mechanism and an accelerator-pedal operating link mechanism. The operating rod mechanism includes one end with a grip and another end with first, second and third brake rods laterally pivotally connected to a frame connected to a brake pedal bracket. The accelerator-pedal operating link mechanism includes a connecting rod longitudinally movably received in the brake rods of the brake-pedal operating rod mechanism, an accelerator-pedal operating lever pivoted by the connecting rod and extending toward an accelerator pedal, an accelerator-pedal operating link connected to an end of the operating lever away from the connecting rod and having a tip end with an accelerator pedal bracket, and a support link pivoted to the frame and to a laterally intermediate portion of the operating lever such that the link can be swung in directions in parallel with those of the operating rod mechanism.

Abstract: The present invention provides a control adapter for use with an existing dual lever lawn tractor that allows an operator to use a single hand in operating tile dual lever lawn tractor. Existing dual lever lawn tractors require an operator to use one hand on each lever to operate the lawn tractor. The control adapter of the present invention is operatively connected to the first control lever and to the second control lever of the dual lever lawn tractor which allows the operator to use a single hand in operating the dual lever lawn tractor.

Abstract: The vehicle has a frame (3) on which a drive mechanism for moving the vehicle is arranged. A platform (4) for the wheelchair (2) is mounted on the frame (3) and can be lowered in order to load the wheelchair (2) onto the vehicle and can be lifted together with the wheelchair (2). The vehicle (1) can be controlled via at least one grip (15, 29) by an attendant or by the person sitting in the wheelchair (2). The grip (15) that can be operated by the attendant is preferably a sensor grip via which the vehicle can be moved without any appreciable force being applied.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a construction machine such as an excavator, a crawler-type vehicle, a wheeled loader or the like, comprising at least one interchangeable equipment item which is actuable by means of an electronic control, wherein the control has a control handle, preferably movable through multiple axes, in particular a joystick, for the generation of control commands for the interchangeable equipment item, wherein at least one actuation element is arranged at the control handle whose actuation is sensed by means of a sensor device and is converted into a control signal. In accordance with the invention, the construction machine is characterized in that a dynamometer and/or torque meter is provided as the sensor device which is connected to the actuation element and senses actuation forces and/or actuation torques exerted onto the actuation element.

Abstract: The invention concerns an armrest mounted joystick for communication of operator initiated control signals to a vehicle controller. A plurality of switches require that the operator be safely located in the operation position in order for the control signals to reach the vehicle controller. Only when all of the switches change state, at substantially the same time, does the joystick either activate or de-activate, in response.

Abstract: A driving operation device includes an input portion which inputs an amount of operation by the driver, an output portion to which the amount of operation is transmitted and a form modifying portion which modifies an orientation of the input portion based on an output of the output portion corresponding to the amount of operation. This can maintain the input portion vertical or horizontal, for example.

Abstract: A steering system is provided for a work machine. The steering system may include at least one hand-operated work implement control device and a steering mechanism configured to control a direction of travel of the work machine. The system may also include a first steering device operatively coupled to the steering mechanism and configured to control at least one component of the steering mechanism based on operator input. The system may further include a second steering device mounted on the work implement control device. The second steering device may be configured to be selectively operatively coupled to the steering mechanism to thereby control a direction of travel of the work machine based on lateral movement of the second steering device relative to the work implement control device.

Abstract: A steering control console for a mobile machine is disclosed. The control console has an armrest extending adjacent a seat in a forward direction generally parallel with a seat plane of symmetry. The control console also includes an operator interface device operatively connected to the armrest. The operator interface device is tiltable about a pivot axis through a range of approximately 70-90 degrees. The pivot axis is substantially aligned with the forward direction.

Abstract: A control console for a machine having a seat with a plane of symmetry is disclosed. The machine also has an armrest extending from the seat in a forward direction generally parallel with the plane of symmetry. The armrest has an upper surface intended to support an operator's forearm. The control console includes a base operatively connected to the armrest, and at least one operator interface device operatively connected to the base. The at least one operator interface device has a neutral axis inclined at an oblique angle relative to the upper surface of the armrest. The at least one operator interface device is pivotal in a fore/aft direction to initiate only a single function of the machine, the fore/aft direction being rotated outward away from the seat a predetermined angle relative to the forward direction of the armrest.

Abstract: At the front end of an operating lever constituted as a joystick lever, a grip that is not allowed to rotate relative to the operating lever is attached. At the front end of the grip, a rotary operating member to be used for prime mover rotation speed adjustment is rotatably mounted. The operator rotates the rotary operating member with his finger tip while holding the grip and moving the operating lever to adjust the prime mover rotation rate and drive an actuator at the same time.

Abstract: Method and device for controlling specific functions of a load-carrying vehicle when dumping and/or loading the load-carrying platform of the vehicle. The device includes a maneuvering organ (control input) that is arranged in the cabin of the load-carrying vehicle for hand maneuvering by the driver. The maneuvering organ (control input) is coupled to at least one of the brakes of the load-carrying vehicle and to the gearbox of the load-carrying vehicle so that it when activated may activate the brake and select a neutral position in the gearbox.

Abstract: Industrial truck, in particular high-bay order picker, having a standing platform (4) defining the occupation region (2) for an operator, a parapet (20) being provided on at least one side of the standing platform (4), characterized in that at least one vertically adjustable knee-support element (26) is provided in the parapet region on a rest (28), on which knee-support element an operator who is standing on the platform (4) and leaning against the parapet (20) can support himself with his knees.

Abstract: Counterbalanced forklift truck with a device for an electro-hydraulic or electric steering of at least one wheel of the counterbalanced forklift truck, with a steering wheel, which is pivoted by means of a shaft section about an axis, whereby the maximum steering angle of the steering wheel on each side of a neutral position (straight position) is smaller than 180° and is limited by fixed limit stoppers, the steering transmission ratio is progressive with increasing steering angle of the steering wheel and the steering transmission ratio becomes more indirect with increasing travel speed.

Abstract: A walk-behind self-propelled apparatus having a mobile structure and a handle assembly coupled to the mobile structure. The handle assembly includes a pair of grip portions. A ground engaging traction member is rotatably coupled to the mobile structure and imparts traction movement to the mobile structure for movement on the ground. A power source outputs drive power and a drive system, coupled between the power source and the ground engaging traction member, selectively transmits the drive power to the ground engaging traction member. A speed control actuation system is then coupled to the drive system and includes a control member pivotable about an axis. The axis is generally parallel to a plane extending between the pair of grip portions of the handle assembly to permit an operator to operate the control member merely through thumb actuation without removing their hands from the pair of grip portions.