Abstract: A zero-turning radius self-propelled power lawn mower includes a standing platform structure for supporting a standing operator during mower operation. The mower has a combination parking brake and pump lockout structure which, when actuated, simultaneously applies a braking force to rear drive wheels and prevents hydro pumps from being moved from their neutral positions. The mower also includes a biasing system for automatically returning hand control levers to their neutral positions when they are not being manipulated by an operator. Unique cutter deck structure, caster structure, grass catcher structure, and steering control levers are also provided.

Abstract: A control system controls actuation of a hydraulic cylinder on a skid steer loader. The control system includes a movable element, such as a hand grip. The hand grip is intelligent in that each contains a microprocessor or other digital controller which monitors user actuable elements (such as switches, buttons, paddles, etc.). The controller sends a communication signal to a main control computer. The communication signal is indicative of the state of the user actuable elements and is, in one embodiment, a serial communication signal.

Abstract: A transportation vehicle for transporting an individual over ground having a surface that may be irregular. The vehicle has a support platform for supporting the subject and the support platform is coupled to a ground-contacting module at a pivot. While the ground-contacting module may be statically stable, balance of the support platform with respect to the ground-contacting module is maintained by motion of the ground-contacting module in response to leaning of the support platform. A motorized drive coupled to the ground-contacting module causes locomotion of the vehicle and the subject therewith over the surface, while a control loop, in which the motorized drive is included, dynamically enhances stability in the fore-aft plane by operation of the motorized drive in connection with the ground-contacting module. In the event of failure of the control loop, the pivot connection of the support platform to the ground-contacting module may be locked, thereby ensuring stability of the static assembly.

Abstract: A thuster control unit which in general comprises a base plate 100, a switch panel 200 mounted on said base plate, and a boat shaped, or navicular, control knob 500 mounted on the base plate such that it is displaceable over the switch panel. The panel is equipped with switches, such as embedded switches, for controlling bow and stem thrusters, and/or any other propulsion unit. The control knob is equipped actuator pegs 425, biased downwards, each thus transmitting a force to the switch panel. In a non-actuated state, the navicular control knob remains in a neutral position in which position no one of the embedded boat manoeuvring control switches are operated. The forward and aft actuator pegs thus activate the forward and aft boat manoeuvring control switches respectively in a manner corresponding with a selective displacement of the navicular control knob. The boat shaped control knob provides a novel, efficient and reliable means for a combined control of any boat propulsion system.

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 motion control system for controlling the motion of a crawler having a left and right track. The system comprises a pivotally mounted controller; a steering control system hydraulically communicable with a pressurized fluid supply, a brake of each of a left and right track of a crawler and a clutch of each of a left and right track of a crawler, a direction control system hydraulically communicable with a pressurized fluid supply, a forward and a reverse transmission signal input, a steering speed controlling system for controlling the speed of a left track and a right track, and a transmission gear controlling system. The steering speed controlling system includes at least one selector. The transmission gear controlling system includes at least one transmission gear selector. The steering control system is positioned so that pivoting the controller in a first series of planes operates the steering control system.

Abstract: Supplemental walk along control for walkie/rider pallet trucks is provided by supplemental jog switches and coast release switches provided adjacent to the base of load carrying forks. The supplemental jog switches are enabled during coasting operation so that operators can advance to the base of the forks to accelerate the trucks between closely spaced picks located along substantially straight portions of pick routes. For application of the trucks' brakes, the operators activate the coast release switches to release the coast mode and enable deadman brake mechanisms to brake the trucks. A steered direction detector is provided to determine the direction of the steered wheel so that if the steered wheel is not directed substantially straight ahead, then operation of the truck from the supplemental jog switches is disabled.

Abstract: The invention concerns an arrangement for regulating the speed of motor vehicles with an internal combustion engine and additional braking systems. An operating element (2) of the speed-regulating arrangement has switching positions (4, 6, 8, 20, 22, 24, 42, 44, 52, 54, 56) for influencing the engine control braking stages and switching positions (10, 12, 14, 16, 17, 26, 28, 30, 31, 32, 58, 60, 62, 64, 66) for influencing the braking system braking stages. The first and second switching positions can be in a single switching plane (18). A second switching plane (40), which is perpendicular to the first switching plane (18) and comprises speed-regulation switching positions (42, 44), can additionally be provided. Retarders, engine brakes, exhaust flap brakes or the gear control system in an automatic transmission can serve as braking devices.

Abstract: A driving control device for a vehicle device , which has an operation lever device for outputting a signal to instruct a travelling speed and a traveling direction of a vehicle by tilting a single operation lever forward, backward, left and right, and a hydraulic motor controller for controlling rotation speeds of two hydraulic motors for driving respective traveling devices on left and right sides of the vehicle body according to the signal from the operation lever device, and which controls the traveling of the vehicle device by operating the operation lever of the operation lever device, has a spin turn instruction member which outputs a signal to make the two hydraulic motors have the same rotation speed but in different rotation directions from each other by rotating the operation lever of the operation lever device.

Abstract: A control element arrangement is disclosed for controlling a motor vehicle without conventional pedals and steering wheel. Two control elements are provided which can be operated independently of one another, in which case at least the longitudinal speed and/or at least the steering angle can be controlled optionally by operating one or the other control element. As a result, with respect to the longitudinal and/or the lateral dynamic control, on the one hand, a redundancy is created which increases the operating reliability and, on the other hand, the control-comfort-increasing possibility is created of being able to guide the vehicle alternated by means of one or the other control element.

Abstract: The aim is to improve operability in vehicles such as skid steer loaders and to reduce the burden on the operator. It is made easy to switch between a first operation pattern wherewith only one operation apparatus of two operation apparatuses is used in driving two actuators, and a second operation pattern wherewith the two actuators are driven using both of the two operation apparatuses. It is made possible to hold operation positions, and to release held positions, whether with an operation lever apparatus that is capable of operation in only one directional component or with an operation lever apparatus that is capable of operation in two directional components in the forward and backward direction and in the left and right direction. When a change to a first combination is designated by a pattern switching lever, the first combination (first operation pattern) is switched to by switching means.

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: A zero-turning radius self-propelled power lawn mower includes a standing platform structure for supporting a standing operator during mower operation. The mower has a combination parking brake and pump lockout structure which, when actuated, simultaneously applies a braking force to rear drive wheels and prevents hydro pumps from being moved from their neutral positions. The mower also includes a biasing system for automatically returning hand control levers to their neutral positions when they are not being manipulated by an operator. Unique cutter deck structure, caster structure, grass catcher structure, and steering control levers are also provided.

Abstract: A steering wheel assembly for an automobile having integrated brake and throttle controls, said assembly comprising a steering wheel having a rim and a first twist grip having longitudinal axis and a second twist grip having a longitudinal axis, said first twist grip and said second twist grip being integral with said rim of steering wheel, wherein rotation of said first twist grip around its longitudinal axis operates said brake, and rotation of said second twist grip around its longitudinal axis operate said throttle.

Abstract: A military vehicle comprises a vehicle power distribution and control system which includes a plurality of input and output devices and a plurality of microprocessor-based interface modules that collect data from the plurality of input devices and that distribute power to the plurality of output devices. The interface modules are distributed throughout the vehicle and are locally placed with respect to the plurality of input and output devices. In one embodiment, the control system is capable of dynamically reconfiguring itself in the event that a master interface module is damaged. In another embodiment, the control system includes an additional layer of fault management that is utilized when the input states of one or more input devices is undetermined.

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 control system controls actuation of a hydraulic cylinder on a skid steer loader. The control system includes a movable element, such as a hand grip. The hand grip is intelligent in that each contains a microprocessor or other digital controller which monitors user actuable elements (such as switches, buttons, paddles, etc.). The controller sends a communication signal to a main control computer. The communication signal is indicative of the state of the user actuable elements and is, in one embodiment, a serial communication signal.

Abstract: A zero-turning radius self-propelled power lawn mower includes a standing platform structure for supporting a standing operator during mower operation. The mower has a combination parking brake and pump lockout structure which, when actuated, simultaneously applies a braking force to rear drive wheels and prevents hydro pumps from being moved from their neutral positions. The mower also includes a biasing system for automatically returning hand control levers to their neutral positions when they are not being manipulated by an operator. Unique cutter deck structure, caster structure, grass catcher structure, and steering control levers are also provided.

Abstract: A multi-function control system for use with an articulated vehicle for controlling speed and forward and rear movement of the vehicle through a single control. The system includes an operating lever connected to the vehicle by a double pivot and movable in a first direction to control the forward and reverse movement of the vehicle and in a second direction, normal to the first, to control movement of attachments carried by a hitch attached to the front of the vehicle simultaneously. A second operating lever may be connected to the vehicle by a double pivot and connected to the hydraulic valve for the hitch so that the hitch may be operated independently upon movement of the second lever alone in the second direction. The first and second operating levers are connected for movement together in the first direction.

Abstract: A vehicle advances forward while turning to the right when an operating lever is tilted forward and to the right, that is, being operated in a direction intermediate between the forward direction and right-hand direction. Only an output signal of the component corresponding to the forward direction is preserved when the operating lever is released. The component corresponding to the right-hand direction returns to the neutral position, and the signal output is brought to zero. The vehicle therefore moves only forward. The operating position can thus be preserved and a signal output state can be held for a single directional component selected from longitudinal and transverse direction components when operating the operating lever device which is tilted along the directional components in both longitudinal and transverse directions.

Abstract: A zero-turning radius self-propelled power lawn mower includes a standing platform structure for supporting a standing operator during mower operation. The mower has a combination parking brake and pump lockout structure which, when actuated, simultaneously applies a braking force to rear drive wheels and prevents hydro pumps from being moved from their neutral positions. The mower also includes a biasing system for automatically returning hand control levers to their neutral positions when they are not being manipulated by an operator. Unique cutter deck structure, caster structure, grass catcher structure, and steering control levers are also provided.

Abstract: An intermediate shaft plate is provided for an assembly for controlling the ground speed of a vehicle having an operator seat, an engine and a variable speed transmission coupled for driving a pair of ground wheels. The transmission is selectively movable among neutral, forward and reverse drive positions. A transmission control shaft is coupled to the transmission for selectively controlling said transmission such that said vehicle is driven in either a forward or a reverse direction. A forward foot control pedal and a reverse foot control pedal are connected to a foot control rod and a hand control lever is connected to a hand control rod. The intermediate shaft plate is connected to the hand control rod, the foot control rod and the transmission control shaft for coupling the forward and reverse control pedals and the hand control lever to the transmission.

Abstract: A zero-turning radius self-propelled power lawn mower includes a standing platform structure for supporting a standing operator during mower operation. The mower has a combination parking brake and pump lockout structure which, when actuated, simultaneously applies a braking force to rear drive wheels and prevents hydro pumps from being moved from their neutral positions. The mower also includes a biasing system for automatically returning hand control levers to their neutral positions when they are not being manipulated by an operator. Unique cutter deck structure, caster structure, grass catcher structure, and steering control levers are also provided.

Abstract: An excavator operator cab (10) has an operator seat (12) and a control console (15) mounted beside the seat. A forward control stick (20) and a rear control stick (22) are positioned in the console (15) such that the rear control stick supports the arm of the operator while he grips the forward control stick. The forward and rear control sticks (20,22) are manipulated independently or in concert with one another.

Abstract: A control device for vehicle steering, braking and accelerator, including but not limited to motor vehicles for use by handicapped drivers, especially those handicapped in the lower limbs, is provided. The control device relates to a system utilizing the steering wheel to accomplish both steering and braking and an accelerator lever device to control the accelerator operations of the vehicle. Specifically, the present invention relates to a system wherein the steering is accomplished in a normal manner by the driver, but the driver need only push forward on the steering wheel to accomplish the braking operations or move a lever device to control the speed of the vehicle. The control device for vehicle steering, braking and accelerator may be employed in any vehicle, including but not limited to motor vehicles, with a mechanical or an automatic gear box.

Abstract: A selecting device facilitates selecting operating positions of an automatic transmission of a motor vehicle by the deflection of a selector lever which moves back automatically from all deflecting directions for selecting the individual operating positions. The automatic transmission can be controlled by this selector lever in a first operating mode—selecting individual driving positions in the automatic operation—or, in a second operating mode—step-by-step shifting of the gears in the manual operation. For each operating mode, one operating position of the automatic transmission respectively is assigned to each deflecting direction of the selector lever. The selector lever is movable, in two shifting channels which are essentially disposed perpendicularly with respect to one another such that maximally four operating positions can be selected in each of the two operating modes. In a third operating mode, cruise control functions can be controlled by means of the selector lever.

Abstract: An operating element is provided for a proximity regulating device for vehicles with an actuating lever. The operating element actuating lever has a rotatably mounted head that can assume a plurality of radial switch positions. If the head is in its initial switch position, the proximity regulating device sets an initial distance from a leading vehicle. As the result of the rotary movement from this initial switch position, one or more additional radial switch positions can be set for a near distance in which the proximity regulating device sets a set distance from a leading vehicle that is shorter than the initial distance. Finally, one or more radial switch positions are provided in which the proximity regulating device sets a far distance that is greater than the initial distance.

Abstract: A control system for an electric lift truck that controls a traction motor and a hydraulic pump motor is disclosed. The speed of rotation of both motors is controlled by a pulse width modulated current supplied from a battery source by the controller in direct response to a demand communicated to the controller through an interface manipulated by an operator. A pump driven by the pump motor supplies pressurized hydraulic fluid to a lift mechanism and a power assisted steering unit. A joystick with function switches mounted thereto is provided so that the operator steers with one hand while controlling truck propulsion and all functions of the lift mechanism with the other hand. The direct control of the pump motor speed enables a fully proportional control of the hydraulic system. The control system is a compact structure that requires minimal cabling and ensures that the hydraulic system operates with energy efficiency and minimal wear.

Abstract: Three independent functions are controlled from a single control lever. The lever is mounted on a universal joint having a slip yoke, a flanged yoke and a cross member extending between the two yokes and defining a first transverse pivot axis and a second transverse pivot axis. The slip yoke is provided with first and second ball joints located in the same plane as the cross member. The first function is controlled by the fore-and-aft movement of the control lever pivoting the slip yoke about the first transverse pivot axis moving the first ball joint up and down. The first ball joint is coupled to a first link that moves the first hydraulic control valve. The second function is controlled by the side-to-side movement of the control lever. Such a side-to-side movement pivots the slip yoke about the second transverse pivot axis moving the second ball joint and second link positioning the second hydraulic control valve. The third function is controlled by the twisting movement of the control lever.

Abstract: A manually controlled operating lever for a vehicle operator's platform has an electrical actuation transducer for transmitting control signals to a working function as a function of the pivoting of the lever and/or as a function of the actuation of at least one actuation element arranged on the lever. In order to avoid an undesired release of working functions, a manually operated activating element is mounted near a hand grip of the lever, and is coupled to a switching element which operates to activate the actuation transducer for the transmission of control signals as a function of actuation of the activating element.

Abstract: An electrically-driven wheelchair is provided with a frame, drive wheels, an operator control panel and a support lever. The operator control panel controls action of the drive wheels. The lower side of the operator control panel is supported to the upper side of the support lever. The support lever is connected to the frame, and supports the operator control panel. The lower side of the support lever is connected to the frame so that the support lever can be rotated in the longitudinal direction and the lateral direction and can be adjustable. The upper side of the support lever is connected to the operator control panel so that the operator control panel can be rocked forward and rearward and leftward and rightward and can be movable. In the support structure of the operator control panel of the invention, not only the arrangement position of the operator control panel at the front and rear sides and the left and right sides but also the height of the operator control panel can be adjusted.

Abstract: An operating element arrangement and method controls the longitudinal and transverse movements of a motor vehicle by using a manually actuatable regulating element which is stationary in the vehicle longitudinal direction and controls the longitudinal movement of the vehicle as a function of the actuating force exerted on the regulating element in the vehicle longitudinal direction. The regulating element also serves to control the vehicle transverse movement of the vehicle. For this purpose, the regulating element is arranged movably in the vehicle transverse direction of the vehicle. The transverse movement of the vehicle is controlled as a function of the transverse deflection of the regulating element or as a function of the actuating force exerted in the transverse direction of the vehicle.

Abstract: A twin stick control system for a movable unit such as a ZRT vehicle includes two control sticks placed side-by-side. Each control stick controls the operation of at least one drive wheel on each side of the vehicle. The control sticks are movable from their neutral position in a first range of motion without any interference from a spring restoring force tending to return them to neutral, thus allowing the control sticks to remain wherever the operator places them in the first range of motion. A cruise control system is located to abut against the control sticks at the conclusion of the first range of motion to define a cruise control speed setting. The sticks can still be advanced forwardly beyond the cruise control speed setting, but encounter a spring force when doing so which is directed to returning the sticks back to the cruise control speed setting.

Abstract: An ergonomic hand control is disclosed. The hand control includes a joystick that is moveable along a plurality of axes and movement of the joystick along any of the axes transmits an electronic input signal to an electronic control computer for controlling a plurality of motor grader functions. A second end of the joystick includes a finger rest and a series of ledges that are separated from each other by a riser. Mounted on each ledge is a switch. Movement of the switches along any of a plurality of axes is used to control one of a number of motor grader functions through the electronic control computer. The design of the hand control permits an operator to properly position a hand on the hand control without requiring the operator to look at the hand control.

Abstract: A multi-function lever for an industrial truck has a lever that can be pivoted around at least a first axis and at least one control element located on the lever. By pivoting the lever around the first axis and by actuating the control element, it is possible to actuate at least one function each of the industrial truck. The invention teaches that the control element can be actuated by pivoting around a second axis, wherein the second axis is substantially parallel to the first axis. The control element can be actuated with the index finger of a hand gripping the hand grip. By pivoting the lever, a vertical movement of the load holding device can be controlled, and by pivoting the control element, a tilting of the load holding device can be controlled.

Abstract: A steering control system for controlling the steering of a work machine which utilizes differential speed control for maneuvering the machine wherein the operator of the work machine can select any one of a plurality of different steering modes which vary the gain of the operator input steering device based upon operating or environmental conditions, or based upon other sensed conditions of the work machine such as the ground speed of the machine.

Abstract: An excavator operator cab (10) has an operator seat (12) and a control console (15) mounted beside the seat. A forward control stick (20) and a rear control stick (22) are positioned in the console (15) such that the rear control stick supports the arm of the operator while he grips the forward control stick. The forward and rear control sticks (20,22) are manipulated independently or in concert with one another.

Abstract: A single lever hand control for multiple functions having two distinct axes of movement. In the case of a stand-up, battery powered lift truck having a mast, a carriage with forks raised and lowered on the mast, and the forks side shifted on the carriage, which also can be tilted from vertical, forward or back, the operator stands facing to the side with reference to the direction of travel of the truck. Movement of the control lever right to left from a neutral position relative to the direction the operator is facing controls the forward or reverse direction and the speed of the truck. The mast and carriage operations are controlled by the lever being pushed or pulled by the operator transversely to the direction of travel. The force required to displace the lever in one direction is less than that required in the other consistent with the large muscle groups employed to overcome the respective forces.

Abstract: A device with a user-actuatable regulating element controls longitudinal movement of a motor vehicle with both an accelerating and a decelerating effect. A forward driving mode and a maneuvering mode can be set as driving modes. In the forward driving mode, the vehicle is moved solely forwards and, when the regulating element is actuated in a first or a second direction of actuation, being respectively accelerated or decelerated to an extent dependent on the deflection or actuating force of the regulating element. In the maneuvering mode, when the regulating element is actuated in one actuation direction or the other, the vehicle is moved respectively forwards or backwards.

Abstract: A material handling vehicle for transporting loads includes a vehicle body and a control console connected to the vehicle body in a first position. The control console can be moved to a second position on the vehicle body by a user. The vehicle may include various devices for positioning the control console with respect to the body. For example, the devices may include separate post openings, a slot, a track, or a pivoting arm. In addition, the control console may include a stability support for the operator and various controls for operating the vehicle. The operator is able to maintain stability by holding the stability support with his or her hand. Furthermore, the operator does not need to remove his or her hand from the stability support in order to operate the various controls. The controls may be mounted on the stability support or may be located in relatively close proximity to the stability support.

Abstract: The operating element is arcuate and is articulated in a lower driver's seat region pivotably about a transverse control axis located on the longitudinal side of the vehicle for controlling the transverse movement of the vehicle. The element is also movable in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle for controlling the vehicle longitudinal movement. The element extends upwards from the lower seat region, on at least one side of the driver's seat, laterally past the adjacent seat cushion and terminates in a end handle. This arrangement provides an ergonomically favorable and reliable operating element so as to dispense with a steering wheel, a brake and accelerator pedal assembly.

Abstract: A switch arrangement for switching a principal function and for switching at least one secondary function by which at least one secondary function is switchable whenever the principal function is turned on. The control or controls for switching the at least one secondary function is covered by a cover whenever the principal function is not activated, and the cover of the control or controls for the at least one secondary function is moved such that the control or controls become visible and accessible when the principal function is activated.

Abstract: An operating element arrangement controls the longitudinal and transverse movements of a motor vehicle, with a foot-actuatable regulating part for controlling braking operations. The operating element arrangement contains a regulating part for controlling the transverse movement of the vehicle, which is arranged so as to be manually actuatable in the transverse direction of the vehicle and into which a finger-actuatable regulating part for controlling acceleration operations is integrated. A steering wheel and accelerator pedal can be eliminated, and a distinct spatial and operationally functional separation of the activation of braking operations, on one hand, and of acceleration operations, on the other hand are provided.

Abstract: A control device is disclosed for vehicles, in particular towing vehicles used for agricultural purposes which have a mounting located near the front of the armrest of the driver's seat for a group of control members used to control various functions of the vehicle. A group of control members consisting of a plurality of switches or buttons and a manually-operated lever are provided to minimize fatigue when the vehicle driver is seated for a long period of time. A hand support is also included near the control members to support the palm of the vehicle driver's hand. The switches or buttons and lever are arranged so that the switches or buttons can be reached and operated comfortably with the outstretched fingers and the switching lever is located between the thumb and index finger, while the hand is resting on the hand support.

Abstract: A control system controls actuation of a hydraulic cylinder on a skid steer loader. The control system includes a movable element, movable by an operator. A position sensor is coupled to the movable element and provides a position signal indicative of a position of the movable element. A controller is coupled to the position sensor to receive the position signal and provide a control signal based on the position signal. A valve spool controls flow of hydraulic fluid to the hydraulic cylinder. An actuator is coupled to the controller and the valve spool and moves the valve spool in response to the control signal from the controller.

Abstract: An operating-element arrangement has a user-actuatable operating element which, when actuated in a first actuation direction, brings about an increase in the longitudinal direction of a motor vehicle. When actuated in a second actuation direction opposite to the first direction, the arrangement brings about a reduction in the longitudinal movement of the vehicle. The actuating force exerted on the operating element determines the change in longitudinal movement to be brought about. The rest position of the operating element is displaced in dependence on the longitudinal movement of the vehicle. The user consequently receives a perceptible and/or visible acknowledgement of the respective vehicle speed or of the deviation between the actual and the desired speed. Alternatively, the operating element can be configured isometrically, in that it remains in a fixed position irrespective of the actuating force.

Abstract: An auxiliary hydraulic system for a working vehicle having an operator station is disclosed herein. The system includes a hydraulic pump for providing hydraulic fluid under pressure, auxiliary hydraulic fittings for connection to auxiliary attachments, and electrically-actuated auxiliary valve assemblies for controlling the supply of hydraulic fluid from the pump to the fittings in response to control signals. The system also includes an operator control console mounted at the operator station and including control levers moveable between different flow positions, flow limit input devices for setting flow limits for the control levers, and a console control circuit for generating command signals based upon the positions of the control levers and the flow limits. The command signals are transmitted to an auxiliary control circuit which generates the control signals in response thereto and applies the control signals to the auxiliary valve assemblies.

Abstract: A hand-operated dual joystick for a motor grader is disclosed. The dual joystick comprises a first joystick having a ledge and a switch, and a second joystick that is significantly smaller than the first joystick. The second joystick is mounted to the ledge of the first joystick. The first joystick is moveable along a first axis and a second axis that are perpendicular to each other. In addition, the first joystick is rotatable about a third axis that is perpendicular to the first axis and to the second axis. The second joystick is moveable along the first axis and the second axis. Movement of the first joystick and the second joystick is used to control a plurality of motor grader functions. The dual function joystick permits an operator to control a plurality of the motor grader functions from a single location thus reducing operator fatigue.

Abstract: A motor grader vehicle control apparatus is provided including first and second joystick assemblies for controlling a blade and vehicle drive and steering systems. Additional control mechanisms are included on the joystick assemblies to provide further control of the blade and vehicle systems. Movement of the joystick assemblies correspond to operations of the blade and vehicles systems in an ergonomic and intuitive manner.

Abstract: A dual steering system for controlling the steering of a motor grader is disclosed. The first portion of the steering system comprises a steering wheel connected through a hydraulic steering valve to hydraulic right and left steering cylinders, which are connected to the right front tire and left front tire, respectively. Rotation of the steering wheel causes rotation of the front tires. A second portion of the steering system comprises a first button and a second button that are mounted to a control lever. Actuation of the first button sends a first electrical input signal and actuation of the second button sends a second electrical input signal to an electronic control computer. The electronic control computer generates control signals in response to the electrical input signals and transmits these control signals to a plurality of electro-hydraulic actuators.