Abstract: Vehicles (12) having implements (14) are typically used to perform repetitive functions in work cycles. Advantageously, such vehicles (12) include control systems (10) for maintaining a control lever (26) in a predetermined position until an associated work cycle function is completed. The subject control (10) includes a rocker bar (46) connected to the control lever (26) and a solenoid (50) having an actuator rod (52) disposed adjacent the rocker bar (46). The control (10) energizes the solenoid (50) to hold the control lever (26) in the predetermined position in response to a position of the implement (14), a position of the control lever (26), and a desired kickout position.

Abstract: An implement control system is provided for controllably raising and lowering an implement relative to a work vehicle. The implement is pivotally connected to the work vehicle and movable between maximum raised and lowered positions in response to the extension and retraction of a hydraulic cylinder. The implement control system is operative for controllably connecting the hydraulic cylinder to a hydraulic accumulator as the implement reaches its desired position, thereby slowing movement of the implement in a smooth manner.

Abstract: Vehicles having implements are typically used to perform repetitive functions in work cycles. An implement control system raises and lowers an implement relative to the vehicle and reduces the stresses applied to the vehicle from abruptly stopping the motion of the implement. A lever pilot signal is produced in response to the pivotal position of a control lever. An electrohydraulic pilot signal is also produced. The pilot signal having the greater pressure is directed to a main valve for controlling the position of the implement. The method and apparatus of the instant invention are applicable to a number of vehicles having a hydraulically operated implement.

Abstract: Construction vehicles of the type having a pair of lift arms extending from the frame to support a work implement, have generally been restricted to operating one specific tool. The attempt to combine the operation of several different work implements has been met with severe functional restrictions since some work implements have specific requirements not found in the operation of others. In order to provide a lift arm linkage arrangement that incorporates the functional requirements necessary to operate a plurality of work implements while maintaining a simple, yet efficient construction, an electronic controller has been included in the design. The electronic controller includes a plurality of sensors that are operatively associated with the lift and tilt linkage of the lift arm arrangement. The sensors enable the electronic controller to constantly monitor the current position of the lift arms and the work implement and compare them with a programmed sequence of movements.

Abstract: A system is provided for operating a fan to move air past a heat exchanger. The fan is driven by hydraulic fluid supplied from a pressure compensated pump. Such fluid driven fan systems are commonly utilized on industrial vehicles and on stationary engines having fluid type systems. The system controllably operates the fan at relatively high speed in response to the temperature of least one of the fluid coolant and hydraulic fluid being greater than respective first and second predetermined upper temperature values, and controllably operates the fan at a second relatively slow speed in response to the temperature of each of the fluid coolant and hydraulic fluid being less than respective first and second predetermined lower temperature values.

Abstract: Work vehicles are used to perform a variety of functions. Advantageously, such work vehicles include systems for cushioning the ride while the vehicle is travelling. The subject automatic ride control senses the speed of the vehicle and responsively activates and deactivates the ride control by respectively connecting and disconnecting an accumulator to the lift cylinder hydraulic circuit.