Abstract: A combination propulsion and control handle for a work machine, including an elongate control stalk having a mounting end, an opposite free end, and an internal cavity in connection with an opening in the free end, and a hand grip disposed in overlaying relation to the free end, the hand grip including at least one input device in a position so as to be operable by a finger of a hand grasping the hand grip for causing a change of state of the input device, the at least one input device including at least one elongate conductive element extending therefrom through the opening and the internal cavity of the control stalk, the hand grip being mounted so as to allow simultaneous limited rotation thereof about the control stalk and rotation of the elongate conductive element within the stalk, for allowing varying the positioning of an operator's hand, without twisting of the conductive elements.

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: A steering arm for a walkie/rider truck which has a truck body, a driving motor and load bearing means, a platform for the operator and a steering rod. Button portions extend adjacent both lateral surfaces of the horn of a steering above the grip portions and extend approximately parallel to the lateral surfaces and are supported for pivoting movement approximately about horizontal axes. The button portions are arranged such that they can be actuated by the thumb or the index finger of the hand engaging the associated grip portion.

Abstract: A tiller for a pedestrian-controlled fork-lift truck, comprising a hollow tiller rod which has its lower end hinged to a support for a steerable wheel and has its other end connected to a loop-shaped handle which, at the rear end, has a gripping portion extending crosswise to the tiller rod, a retaining extension extending into the interior of the handle as an elongation of the tiller rod, a handle means pivotally supported by the retaining extension which is coupled to a lifting means via a pusher or puller element within the tiller rod, wherein the handle means having an intermediate neutral pivoting position and two opposed pivoting positions in which it actuates the lifting means for a lifting or lowering operation, characterized in that the handle means is a loop-shaped elongated gripping element including two approximately parallel extending long element portions which extend crosswise to the tiller axis, and two curved, short element portions (interconnecting the long element portions which are located

Abstract: A vehicle operating apparatus which accelerates, decelerates and steers a vehicle in accordance with the operation of the operating lever is provided with a reaction force generating means which generates a reaction force opposing the operating lever, a current sensor which senses failure of the reaction force, and an electric control apparatus which decreases the responsiveness of driving control to the operating lever when a failure is sensed. A steering control apparatus provides driving control equal to that of the state prior to the sensing of a failure when the operating speed of the operating lever at the time of the failure exceeds a prescribed value. Additionally, at the time of detection of a failure, an electric control apparatus reduces vehicle speed by an engine control apparatus.

Abstract: The steering device is constructed by supporting a center portion of a rectangle-plate-shaped operation plate at one end of a supporting shaft projected from the front face of a dashboard so as to freely swing in right and left directions. A steering apparatus for a vehicle having the steering device detects the swing direction and the swing angle of the operation plate with a steering angle sensor provided at a support portion and moves a steering mechanism in the detected direction in accordance with the detected angle so as to steer the vehicle. With this structure, a load in steering can be decreased and tiredness in driving can be reduced. Furthermore, such a steering apparatus can realize a steering device which physically handicapped drivers can operate easily.

Abstract: The invention relates to a control device for affecting the accelerator (15) of a vehicle by means of a an actuator, typically a handle (3), arranged within the reach of the driver. The main purpose of use of the invention is to modify vehicles equipped with foot pedal control means so that they become better suitable to be used by disabled persons. The invention is suitable to be used by professional drivers to improve driving comfort.

Abstract: In preferred embodiments, a utility vehicle (such as, e.g., a skid steer vehicle) has a multitude of potential control-to-function configurations (in some preferred embodiments, enabling about sixteen or more configurations). The control-to-function configurations can preferably be selected by matching different control elements to different function drive elements. Preferably, the control elements (such as, e.g., hand control elements and foot control elements) have similar attachment mechanisms and the function drive elements (such as, e.g., various powered devices) have similar attachment mechanisms, whereby multiple control-to-function configurations can be readily achieved.

Abstract: A controller tower positioning system for a work vehicle for securing the controller tower to one of at least two positions. The system employs a mounting bracket fixed to the floor or a frame member of the work vehicle, a movable controller tower rotatably mounted to the mounting bracket and a resistive element strategically mounted to the controller tower and the mounting bracket to provide resistance to movement away from either of the two positions and a toggle effect as the controller tower is moved from one of the two positions to the other. The controller assembly is physically restrained at the free end of the controller tower.

Abstract: A backhoe control pattern selection arrangement is provided for a backhoe controlled by two control levers. The two levers are operatively connected to hydraulic systems that operate the boom and crowd hydraulic cylinders. An electrically operated valve block is electrically connected to a source of power and to a control switch, and hydraulically connected to the hydraulic systems. Changing the state of the control switch actuates the valve block and modifies the hydraulic systems to reverse the correspondence between the control levers and the boom and crowd functions.

Abstract: A control system for a vehicle comprises a power source, a power transmission link, a plurality of input and output devices, a plurality of microprocessor-based interface modules, and a communication network that interconnects the interface modules. The interface modules are also each coupled to respective local subsets of the input and output devices. Each of the interface modules collects input status information from the respective local subset of the input devices and transmits the input status information over the communication network to the remaining interface modules.

Abstract: A vehicle driver control input device includes a non-rotatable wheel having at least one track. First and second hand grips are movably engaged with the track so that the first and second hand grips are movable along the track to facilitate sending steering signals to a steer-by-wire system of a vehicle. At least one of the first and second hand grips has an accelerator demand input mechanism to facilitate sending acceleration signals to an energy conversion system of the vehicle. At least one of the first and second hand grips have a braking demand input mechanism to facilitate sending braking signals to a brake-by-wire system of the vehicle. Alternatively, the wheel and hand grips may rotate with respect to a support post to facilitate generating steering signals.

Abstract: A modular excavator-backhoe control station is disclosed, the station having two control towers with joystick on their upper ends that are pivotally coupled adjacent a floor of an excavator or backhoe. They have one piece polymeric boots that cover them as well as several additional operator controls. The towers are held in fore-and-aft position by a locking fluid cylinder that is adjustable to a many fore-and-aft positions. The towers also have upper portions that are laterally pivotal.

Abstract: A device for operating a vehicle is provided with an operating lever to be operated by a driver, operating position sensors that detect a displacement amount of the operating lever, reaction force generating mechanisms that generate a return force and a reaction force in the operating lever, and a microcomputer that controls the reaction force generating mechanisms. The return force and the reaction force can be controlled independently. Also, the reaction force is generated by the reaction force generating mechanisms after the operating lever has reached an initial position. Further, a torsion spring is provided that retains the operating lever in the initial position when electric power is interrupted.

Abstract: A control device in a vehicle, which control device is connected to, and is for operating, a semi-automatic gearbox, can be set in various gearchange function positions and can, in at least one gearchange function position for traveling forwards, be operated for gear changing. The control device is also connected to, and is for operating, a supplementary brake. This control device replaces both the gear lever and the supplementary brake lever, resulting in increased driving safety and better ergonomics for the driver.

Abstract: An adjustment stop screw or bolt is provided for adjusting the full forward speed position of at least one steering lever on a skid steer loader. The stop screw will engage a member movable with the steering lever below the operator's platform. The stop screw can be adjusted through an opening in operator's platform to change the stopped forward speed position of the lever, and thus the full forward speed position of the linkage that controls the motor operated by that lever. This in turn adjusts the speed of the drive motor in a full forward position of the lever. The adjustment is made to match the output speeds of the drive motors on both sides of the skid steer vehicle.

Abstract: A control apparatus for an agricultural machine operatively arranged in an operator's cab proximate an operator having a multi-functional handle. The multi-functional handle has a gripping portion with a plurality of control elements. The control elements are operatively arranged such that the operator can reach the control elements with one or two fingers while holding the gripping portion. A selection/transfer element is used to select control elements to perform a first and a second control function. A display unit is used to display the function symbols of the selected function.

Abstract: A receiver capable of receiving a remote vehicle stop request signal is mounted to a commercial vehicle and connected to the vehicle antilock braking ECU by a vehicle communication bus. The receiver may also be capable of transmitting a signal, thereby allowing the desired vehicle to be isolated. Furthermore, a user input device may be mounted to the vehicle that allows manual input of a park signal. When the park signal has been received by the vehicle ECU, the vehicle braking system is employed, thereby preventing the movement of the vehicle.

Abstract: A device and method for operating a vehicle having an operating member that is displaceable with respect to a vehicle body and operated by a driver, controls an acceleration of the vehicle according to a displacement position of the operating member, displaces the operating member to a predetermined initial position when electric power starts to be supplied, and prohibits acceleration of the vehicle according to a displacement position of the operating member when the operating member is being displaced to the initial position until the operating member reaches a position which does not instruct the vehicle to accelerate. With this type of device for operating a vehicle, it is possible to prevent the vehicle from moving against the wishes of the driver at the start of operation.

Abstract: A driver control input device includes first and second base members with first and second control members each configured to support an arm of a driver and each pivotally movable with respect to the base members in a generally horizontal plane. The control members are operatively engaged with a steer-by-wire system such that pivotal movement of the first and second control members causes steering control signals to be sent to the steer-by-wire system. The control members may also be longitudinally slidably supported with respect to the base members to generate acceleration and braking signals.

Abstract: An operator station for a lift truck or other vehicle including a scalloped arm rest providing a plurality of arm rest positions for operators of varying sizes. The arm rests are positioned approximate an operator control handle, such that operators can operate vehicle controls while resting their arms in a selected one of the scalloped arm rests.

Abstract: A steering device for a motor vehicle has a stationary steering wheel rim, a measurement transducer integrated into the steering wheel rim and provided for generating an electric or electronic signal, and an actuator that can be actuated as a function of the electronic signal in order to adjust steerable wheels. The measurement transducer comprises touch-sensitive sensors on the circumference of the steering wheel rim which detect a position and movement of the hands of a driver touching the steering wheel rim and generate the electric or electronic signal that corresponds to the position and the movement of the hands. An electronic unit for detecting the signal and converting it into a steering signal for controlling the actuator is associated with the measurement transducer.

Abstract: A control system in accordance with one feature of the present invention includes one or more user inputs, movable by a user in an operator compartment of a power machine. The user inputs can be used to set values for a plurality of settable operating parameters to direction of movement of the power machine, as well as travel speed.

Abstract: A user input device in accordance with one features of the present invention includes one or more joysticks, movable by a user in an operator compartment of a power machine. The joysticks control direction of movement of the power machine, as well as travel speed.

Abstract: The invention relates to a switching device for a vehicle horn of a vehicle having an actuation element by means of which the vehicle horn is triggered when pressure is applied by an operator. In order to make the switching device particularly user-friendly, the invention provides for the actuation element to be mounted on a pantograph device in such a way that the actuation element can move exclusively in a direction which is predefined by the pantograph device.

Abstract: A tiller for a pedestrian-controlled fork-lift truck, comprising a hollow tiller rod which has its lower end hinged to a support for a steerable wheel and has its other end connected to a loop-shaped handle which, at the rear end, has a gripping portion extending crosswise to the tiller rod, a retaining extension extending into the interior of the handle as an elongation of the tiller rod, a handle means pivotally supported by the retaining extension which is coupled to a lifting means via a pusher or puller element within the tiller rod, wherein the handle means having an intermediate neutral pivoting position and two opposed pivoting positions in which it actuates the lifting means for a lifting or lowering operation, characterized in that the handle means is a loop-shaped elongated gripping element including two approximately parallel extending long element portions which extend crosswise to the tiller axis, and two curved, short element portions (interconnecting the long element portions which are located

Abstract: A driver control input device includes left and right control posts each having a hand grip. The control posts are movable forwardly and rearwardly and are sufficiently linked together such that forward movement of one control post will result in an equal and opposite rearward movement of the other control post to facilitate sending non-mechanical steering signals to a steer-by-wire system to which the control input device is attached. Accelerator demand input mechanisms and braking demand input mechanisms may also be positioned on the hand grips for generating non-mechanical acceleration and braking signals.

Abstract: A motorcycle having a speed control rotary throttle grip and a pivoted brake lever both mounted on a steering handlebar, is provided with a split clamp ring surrounding the throttle grip and movable to releasably clamp the throttle grip against rotation from a preset position of cruising speed. A catch pin supported by one section of the split clamp ring is movable with the other section of the clamp ring to releasably secure the sections together. The catch pin is movable either manually by physical force or automatically by movement of the brake lever during braking of the motorcycle speed. Manual force may be applied to move a clamp lever, while automatic operation is achieved by movement of the brake lever into engagement with the clamp lever.

Abstract: A vehicle stability enhancement (VSE) system for a vehicle having at least one vehicle subsystem includes; at least one sensor for sensing at least one vehicle parameter, at least one vehicle control system for adjusting the at least one vehicle subsystem, a driving mode switch for selecting at least one driving mode, at least one memory comprising at least one set of gain factors, and a controller responsive to the at least one sensor, the driving mode switch, and the at least one set of gain factors for controlling the at least one vehicle control system.

Abstract: A motorized vehicle has wheels mounted on a vehicle body for undergoing rotation to cause the motorized vehicle to undergo travelling, electric motors for selectively undergoing forward and reverse rotation to rotationally drive respective ones of the wheels, brakes for applying brake forces to respective ones of the wheels, handlebars extending from the vehicle body, and turn control levers mounted on the handlebars to undergo angular movement within a range of preselected angular positions. The turn control levers are connected to respective ones of the brakes and respective ones of the electric motors so that the electric motors undergo rotation simultaneously in opposite directions in accordance with the preselected angular positions of the turn control levers to turn the motorized vehicle while the motorized does not undergo travelling.

Abstract: A switch assembly for a vehicle includes a stalk and a rotary switch. The stalk is fixed at one end to a steering column. The rotary switch is connected at one end to the other end of the stalk. The rotary switch is rotatable about a pivot axis normal to the other end of the stalk for switching between different rotary switch positions each associated with a respective vehicle control function. A rotatable knob may be connected to the other end of the rotary switch. The rotatable knob is rotatable about a rotational axis normal to the pivot axis of the rotary switch for switching between different rotatable knob positions each associated with a respective vehicle control function. The rotary switch may include control buttons each associated with a respective vehicle control function.

Abstract: A vehicle driver control input assembly includes a seat with a steering wheel structure configured to provide non-mechanical steering signals to a steer-by-wire system. The steering wheel structure is collapsible underneath the seat for storage. First and second movable arm structures are connected to opposing sides of the seat and are movable between an upright position for use and a lowered position for storage. The movable arm structures include control input members to provide non-mechanical steering signals to the steer-by-wire system. A plurality of selectable driver control input devices may be interchangeably connected with the vehicle to provide steering, braking and/or acceleration signals to the vehicle as desired.

Abstract: A driver control input device includes first and second rotatable hand grips positioned within first and second rotatable rings, respectively, for rotation with respect to first and second support members. The rotatable rings are operatively engaged with a steer-by-wire system for sending steering control signals to the steer-by-wire system. The hand grips may also include acceleration and braking demand mechanisms in various combinations.

Abstract: A modular go-kart assembly includes an acceleration assembly cooperatively working with a braking assembly for powering and stopping the go-kart assembly. The go-kart assembly further includes a central body, a front drive assembly, a rear drive assembly, and a protective cage assembly, each of which are modular for easy construction and disassembly. The go-kart assembly includes a motor having multiple power take off shafts to provide simple connections to an acceleration assembly and a braking assembly. Both the acceleration assembly and the braking assembly are controlled by one control pedal, so as to provide a safety measure for the operator, which is typically a child.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for controlling a headlight system. The apparatus includes a control yoke control unit having a brake control, a dimmer switch, an actuating mechanism, and at least one control support for supporting the brake control and dimmer switch. Both controls are incorporated into the control unit. The control unit may have only a single control support with both controls therein, or it may have two control supports each with one control. The control unit also includes an electrical connector for connecting the dimmer switch to a headlight and a source of electrical power. The actuating mechanism is movable in first and second directions from a neutral position, such that moving the actuating mechanism from the neutral position in the first direction actuates the brake control, and moving the actuating mechanism from the neutral position in the second direction actuates the dimmer switch.

Abstract: A shifting mechanism for electric vehicles includes an operation bar coupled with a universal joint mounting on an electric vehicle body. The operation bar may be turned and swiveled in multiple directions and has a free end movable according to preset paths of a guiding means. The operation bar may be swiveled in different directions or through the guiding means to switch circuits that control motor positive rotation and reverse rotation at high speed or low speed. Thereby a definite direction is provided to switch the direction and speed. The switches are located on different positions and arranged in low—high speed and forward (positive rotation)—backward (reverse rotation) fashion so that the backward movement can only be exercised at the low speed to avoid the risk of backward high speed condition to secure safety for children's ride-on electric vehicles.

Abstract: A back-lit handlebar control assembly for vehicles steered by a handlebar includes a front control housing and a rear control housing that are joined together at each end of the handlebars where an operator typically would grip. The control housing includes back-lit control buttons with indicia thereon partially passing through the front portion of the control housing for easy access and nighttime vision by the operator.

Abstract: The vehicle-mounted device control unit is provided with an electrical appliance selection switch for selecting an electrical appliance whose function is to be regulated, a manual input device for regulating various functions of the electrical appliance selected with the switch, a loudspeaker, a display unit, and a controller. Signals from the electrical appliance selection switch and the manual input device are supplied to the controller, which controls the manual input device, the loudspeaker and the display unit. The manual input device is provided with knobs, actuators for loading external forces on the knobs, and detecting devices for detecting the manipulated states of the knobs. The controller drives the actuators, the loudspeaker and the display unit by supplying drive signals matching manipulated states of the knobs and carries out force feedback to a user.

Abstract: A hydraulic shovel is provided which comprises a pair of left and right running/rotation pedals (3L and 3R) for running or rotating a vehicle, and a single running/rotation lever 7 which is installed separately from the pedals for similarly running or rotating the vehicle. The shovel allows the operator to run or rotate the vehicle by operating on the running/rotation pedals 3L and 3R, as well as by manipulating the running/rotation lever 7. Moreover, because the running/rotation lever 7 consists of a single lever, the operator can easily manipulate it by one hand, being relieved of complicated operations and inconveniencies encountered with the conventional machine, which ensures the improved operability.

Abstract: A steering wheel for steering and braking an vehicle having a steering and braking system. A first steering wheel segment is spaced from and rotatably fixed to the hub. A second steering wheel segment is spaced from and rotatably fixed to the hub such that the second steering wheel segment is rotatable, in combination with the hub, about the steering axis to steer the vehicle. The second steering wheel segment is pivotably movable between an equilibrium position in which the second steering wheel segment is aligned with the first steering wheel segment to define at least a part of a steering wheel perimeter and a braking position. Wherein the second steering wheel segment is displaced from alignment from the first steering wheel segment to actuate the braking system so that the steering wheel can simultaneously steer and brake the vehicle.

Abstract: It is designed that an oil pressure signal can be output by operating an operation lever in a twisting direction; a structure can be made simple and its assembly and adjustment are easy; an operation force can be reduced; and a layout is not restricted. It is also designed that when the operation lever is left free after it is twisted, it returns smoothly to the original neutral position. When the operation lever is twisted about the lever axis, the shaft supported by bearings is twisted. The twist of the shaft is converted into the movement in a direction to move the pistons by first and second levers, and the pistons are moved. When the pistons are moved, the oil pressure signal is output from the discharge ports. A disk plate is separated into a first disk plate to which the root of the operation lever is attached and a second disk plate which is tiltably supported by a tilting fulcrum.

Abstract: A mounting system for an operator control implement comprises a manipulation tube which defines a first axis and upon one end of which an operator control implement is adapted to be mounted. The manipulation tube extends through a housing within which a first clutch assembly is disposed, and in conjunction with which there is disposed a first cam member. A first fixed support member defines a second axis, and a second support member is rotatably mounted upon the first support member. The second support member is fixedly mounted upon the housing, and a second clutch assembly is interposed between the first and second support members.

Abstract: The object of the present invention is to provide a driving apparatus for a vehicle, which is capable of improving the operability and safety of a vehicle driving by enabling a fine correction to the steering amount with a simple apparatus. The apparatus employs the first and second operation devices, for which the steering gains are differentiated for the improvement.

Abstract: Controllability of a vehicle such as a skid steer loader is improved and the burden on an operator is reduced. When operation is conducted according to the first operation pattern, the pattern switching lever of the first switching valve is switched to the first operation pattern side and the pattern switching lever of the second switching valve is switched to the first operation pattern side. Furthermore, when operation is conducted according to the second operation pattern, the pattern switching lever of the first switching valve is switched to the second operation pattern side and the pattern switching lever of the second switching valve is switched to the second operation pattern side. Moreover, when operation is conducted according to the third operation pattern, the pattern switching lever of the first switching valve is switched to the third operation pattern side and the pattern switching lever of the second switching valve is switched to the third operation pattern side.

Abstract: Disclosed is a brake system of a vehicle. The present invention includes parking brake interlocking mechanism being installed on a pedal assembly of a main brake and the parking brake interlocking mechanism is interlocked with a brake pedal so as for the parking brake to be operated in a brake pedal operation rear range beyond a brake pedal operation range during normal driving or traveling, a locking mechanism for preventing the interlocking mechanism from being returned when the parking brake is operated, and a locking control for releasing the locking of the locking mechanism when an accelerator pedal is operated.

Abstract: A vehicle is capable of being driven in a plurality of forward directions, the direction of travel being a function of the forward-facing orientation of a movable seat or movement of the driver to a different seat. The vehicle includes a frame, at least three wheels, a steering system, a braking system and an energy conversion system operable with respect to at least one of the wheels and controllable through non-mechanical control means. The vehicle has at least one movable seat connected to the frame and at least one operator interface operably connected to at least one of the steering system, braking system and energy conversion system that is usable to drive the vehicle in different directions when the seat is moved.

Abstract: A system reduces the amount of work exerted by an ATV operator to change transmission gears. The system includes a foot lever assembly with a mechanical portion, such as a mechanical linkage, attached to an automated portion, such as an electrical switch. When the ATV operator applies a predetermined amount of force to the foot lever assembly, a clutch assembly and a gear box are actuated in a single motion, assisted by the automated portion of the foot lever assembly. Thus, the operator is able to exert less work in order to change the gears.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for steering a motor vehicle, the device comprising at least one steering means to be actuated by a driver, the means being coupled electrically with at least one steerable wheel of the motor vehicle. The device further comprises a seat for the driver, the seat including a seat part which forms a seat area, and a backrest part. The steering means are coupled with the seat part and are longitudinally displaceable together with it.

Abstract: Improvements to a motorized balancing personal transporter. An intelligent battery has a battery container sealed against moisture and a plurality of battery blocks housed within the battery container. Additionally, the battery pack has a plurality of sensors, each of which is for monitoring a characteristic of a distinct battery block. The battery pack has a processor that generates a fault flag for transmission to a circuit external to the battery container on occurrence of a critical fault and that transmits an identifying characteristic such as a battery serial number. Various mechanisms are provided for receiving rider input in order to direct steering of the vehicle. These include a rotatable grip for imparting rotary motion to a rotation sensor, a thumb-activated rotation sensor and a palm-activated sensor, each disposed on the handlebar of the vehicle.

Abstract: The present invention includes a tiltable control console positioned within a rear interior portion of a cab of a work machine, such as a backhoe loader. The work machine includes a seat rotatable between front and rear positions. The control console includes a tower assembly that enables tiltable movement of the control consoles between stowed and operating positions and a controller connected with the tower assembly. When the seat is in the front position, an operator may operate specific functions for a loader bucket of the work machine. When the operator is ready to operate specific functions for a backhoe bucket of the work machine, the operator may rotate the seat from the front position to the rear position. However, the seat may remain in the front position to operate the specific function for the backhoe bucket. At that time, the operator may move the control console from the stowed position to the operating position through the movement of the tower assembly.