Abstract: A single-lever control lockout for a boom and bucket control lever. The lever is selectively movable in both fore-and-aft and side-to-side directions to control the lowering and raising of the boom and the roll back and dumping of the bucket. A cover encloses the control valve and the control lever extends through an opening in the cover. A lockout is slidably attached to the lever and is movable within the cover opening between a locked position where the lockout engages the cover, and a free position where the lockout is spaced from the cover thus allowing free movement of the lever in all directions.

Abstract: In a golf cart entertainment system, a golf cart is provided with an entertainment source, an amplifier and speakers. Connection means between the speakers and the amplifier are switched through a microswitch on the actuator of the golf cart for activation and deactivation of the speakers. A warning source receives a warning signal from a transmitter and transmits it through the amplifier to the speakers through unswitched connection means.

Abstract: An armrest including a pivotal forward section containing hand controls and an adjustable second section to align with the forward section.

Abstract: A switch assembly for an automotive vehicle. The switch assembly comprises a support having a shape that is a reduced scale three dimensional reproduction of at least a portion of a vehicle, and the support includes a multitude of surfaces geometrically corresponding to outside surfaces of the vehicle and mutually arranged to allow tactile recognition of the surfaces of the support corresponding to surfaces of the vehicle. A plurality of switches are mounted on the support for movement between first and second states to actuate and deactuate articles of equipment on the vehicle, and each switch is positioned on the support on a location corresponding to the location on the vehicle of the article of equipment controlled by the switch.

Abstract: A control system for providing power to independently driven wheels of a power driven cart for transporting medical diagnostic equipment. A manually engageable handle is mounted to the cart in a position allowing a person to exert a manual force on the handle in a direction in which it is desired for the cart to move. Force sensors are coupled to the handle to sense the manual force applied to it in a plane parallel to the plane on which the cart is to be moved. The force sensors provide signals representative of the magnitude and direction of the manual force applied to the handle in forward, reverse and turning directions. Electronic circuits are coupled to the force sensors for providing control signals to motors driving the wheels of the cart for independently controlling direction and velocity of movement of the cart.

Abstract: A system for automatically limiting the maximum speed of a vehicle to a predetermined maximum, particularly suitable for use with off-road vehicles such as aircraft deicing trucks. The system utilizes a magnetic Hall effect sensor to generate a speed signal which is compared to a signal representative of a preselected maximum vehicle speed. In response to the comparison a pulse-width modulated control signal is generated and used to control a transistor in series with the ignition coil primary thereby intermittently disrupting the ignition system.

Abstract: A multi-function directional handle with control elements mounted for turning in both directions is arranged as a single structural unit, in which unit an axially supported control spoke with hand-grippable, individually movable control levers at its ends is provided adjustably fixed in a position within the region of grip in front of the driver's seat of a construction machine. The control levers each define an opening, wherein finger-displaceable dump lever is mounted in each such opening, the axes of swing of the control and dump levers extending, approximately parallel, to the pivot axes of the controlled tool parts, and the direction of turn of the human control movements agreeing with that of the movements controlled.

Abstract: A hydrostatic drive for a windrower includes wheel motors having speed control arms movable between "hi" and "lo" speed stops by means of a pair of push-pull cables coupled between the control arms and a speed control lever. The cables have housings mounted to the motor control arms so as to isolate the cable from noise and other vibrations induced in the control arms. The cable housings are also mounted to the frame by a shock absorber load assembly which acts through the cable housing to resiliently bias the control arms against their respective stops and to further isolate the cable from vibrations.

Abstract: An all seasons vehicle has a hydraulic control circuit that is used to make the vehicle highly maneuverable in which the rear treads are controllable through a speed control driving or controlling the speed of each of the hydraulic motors from a pair of hydraulic pumps connected to the motors in proportion to the position of a control element that is changed through the steering wheel of the vehicle. The control over the hydraulic motors may be increased or decreased by overriding the position of the control element and increasing the hydraulic flow of fluid to one motor or the other without interfering with the direction being imparted to the vehicle.

Abstract: A speed and direction control apparatus for a skid steer vehicle of the type having right and left driven wheels which are caused to be operated by variable displacement pumps. The control apparatus is similar to that found in normal highway vehicles in that a steering wheel is provided for controlling the turning of the vehicle and a foot pedal is provided for controlling the speed of the vehicle. One end of each of a pair of push-pull control cable assemblies is used to move the control arms of the variable displacement pumps and the other end of the pair of control cables are in turn secured to a rotatable element which is in turn supported for rotation on a portion of a rotatable steering column. The rotatable element can be rotated by the steering wheel to cause one control arm to be displaced with respect to the other control arm to effect turning of the vehicle.

Abstract: This invention relates to a device for exploiting the maximum drive unit torque of the drives of vehicles (35) or conveyers, which vehicles (35) are movable in an optional direction or which conveyers permit transport of objects in an optional direction, the vehicle (35) or the conveyer having at least two driven means (H1, H2, H3, H4) with oblique ground contact elements (41), the driven means being driven by a drive comprising one or more drive units (36-39).

Abstract: A control system for a drag race vehicle limits engine RPM to a selected Launch RPM limit when the vehicle is staged at the starting line and which limits engine RPM to an Elapsed Time RPM limit after the vehicle is shifted to high gear. The Launch RPM control is controlled by the same driver-controlled Launch switch which controls the line lock or transmission brake solenoid, so that the Launch RPM limit is removed at the same time that the vehicle is permitted to move forward. The Elapsed Time RPM control is actuated by a second driver-controlled Elapsed Time Enable switch. The control system is particularly useful for Super Class drag racers, in which the winner must be the first to the finish line without going under a predetermined elapsed time.

Abstract: A motorcycle sidecar apparatus attaches to a motorcycle. The sidecar has an independent reverse drive and is controllable in the forward and reverse directions from either the motorcycle or the sidecar. It is particularly adapted for the use of wheelchair-bound handicapped persons. The invention also includes a suspension mechanism which cushions the ride and a hand-operated gear shift which facilitates operation of the vehicle from the sidecar. Finally, the sidecar incorporates a new type of wheel mounting assembly.

Abstract: A straight-line motion device is described for controlling hydraulic control devices, which is activated by a single lever.The above straight-line motion device is supported by the piloting device body 22 of the said hydraulic control by means of the fork 20. The body 22 contains the operating system parts, including four pushers 25, 26, 27 and 28, protruding from the body 22 to then come into contact with cams 16 and 17. These cams operate pushers 26 and 27 and pushers 25 and 28 respectively.The main feature of the invention is that cams 15 and 16 are operated by a straight-line motion device controlled by a single lever 1.

Abstract: A control mechanism (14) associated with a tractor operators seat (110) and an arm rest (112) is disclosed which includes a steering selector apparatus (116) having an upstanding member (134) and a tiller arm (118) extending outwardly therefrom. The tiller arm (118) is advantageously located immediately forwardly of the arm rest (112) and has a mounting portion (142) and hand grip portion (144) that can be easily grasped by an operator's downwardly facing hand palm. A support assembly (136) pivotally supports the upstanding member (134) for movement about a fixed upstanding axis (140) and a control device (46,50,52,54,184) steers the tractor in response to the swinging movement of the tiller arm (118). In response to rotation of the hand grip portion (144) about the axis (158) of the tiller arm (118) a second control device (38,42,174) effects a change in the gear condition of an associated transmission (36).

Abstract: A self propelled two speed vehicle suitable for use as a golf cart, in which the frame is arranged to carry one or two golfers and/or their golf clubs over short distances such as are encountered in golf course use. The cart is provided with a low level flat rearwardly directed riding platform applied between the two rear wheels of the vehicle which enables one or two persons to ride the scooter by standing on the platform, in side by side relation where two persons are to ride the vehicle, with the vehicle frame and platform being arranged for ease of mounting and dismounting same by stepping up or stepping down from the rear of the vehicle. The vehicle has a single foot actuated control lever for actuating or stopping the vehicle, and a steering wheel for steering the vehicle front wheel, which control lever and steering wheel are centered so that a rider standing in either the right or left side positions on the riding platform can operate the scooter vehicle.

Abstract: A rear loading refuse pickup truck is modified to include auxiliary controls operable from a platform near the rear of the truck so that a single operator can both load refuse into the truck and effect unidirectional truck operation at limited speeds between relatively close refuse pickup sites. The auxiliary controls include directional steering, transmission shifting limited between neutral and reverse, and limited accelerator actuation.

Abstract: A universal lever apparatus having a first rod and a second rod each for actuating an operated member, an operation lever connected to the first rod and the second rod and pivotally movable in a first direction for moving the first rod and in a second direction for moving the second rod, and lock mechanism for locking the operation lever. The lock mechanism includes a manually operated device operatively connected to the operation lever for pivotally moving the operation lever to a rearward position in which the operation lever does not interfere with movement of a driver without causing effective movements of the first and second rods, the manually operated device being movable between an unlock position in which the pivotal movement of the operation lever causes the effective movement of the first and second rods and a lock position in which the operation lever is located in the rearward position.

Abstract: A motor vehicle is adapted to enable ready entry and exit of the vehicle for a disabled person from or into his wheel-chair, and also to enable convenient storage of the folded wheel-chair in the vehicle. The adaptation consists in the provision of a seat which can be moved from a normal position within the vehicle to a displaced position projecting laterally outwardly of the vehicle, whereby the disabled person can readily slide himself from his wheel-chair into the seat and vice versa, and also in the provision of storage means on the inside of the door adjacent to the seat into which the folded wheel-chair can be located for retention on said door between the door and the seat.

Abstract: The invention relates to an industrial vehicle comprising a frame supported by ground wheels and/or caterpillars or the like. A driver seat is supported by said frame and provided with at least one armrest (elbow rest) and one or more control-members disposed near the elbow rest for controlling the movements of the vehicle and/or members connected with the vehicle. The elbow rest and the control-member(s) are disposed near the top end of a supporting column which is pivotable about a pivotal shaft located near the bottom side of the column and extending transversely of the longitudinal axis of the driver seat and fixable in at least two positions.

Abstract: A motorized wheelchair containing a novel steering mechanism which is operable using only low effort by the user. The wheelchair is rugged in design, and very maneuverable thus permitting use both indoors and out-of-doors. The design enables the user to overcome obstacles commonly encountered in use out-of-doors. The device incorporates a single joy stick to control steering while also selectably regulating between forward and reverse direction of motivation.

Abstract: A remote controller is disclosed for controlling the throttle, brake and steering mechanism of a conventional motor vehicle, with the remote controller being particularly advantageous for use by severely handicapped individuals. The controller includes a remote manipulator which controls a plurality of actuators through interfacing electronics. The remote manipulator is a two-axis joystick which controls a pair of linear actuators and a rotary actuator, with the actuators being powered by electric motors to effect throttle, brake and steering control of a motor vehicle adapted to include the controller. The controller enables the driver to control the adapted vehicle from anywhere in the vehicle with one hand with minimal control force and range of motion. In addition, even though a conventional vehicle is adapted for use with the remote controller, the vehicle may still be operated in the normal manner.

Abstract: A hydraulic system for controlling hydraulic motors for driving a tracked vehicle which circuit utilizes a single manual control lever to control valve control units to direct pilot pressure to actuate bi-directional valves that control the direction of movement of the hydraulic motors.

Abstract: An ambulator which can be mated to a wheeled frame to form a wheelchair is rovided to enable a paraplegic to stand on the ambulator and be separated from the frame for maneuvering in confined spaces. The ambulator has power operated articulated linkage for raising the paraplegic out of and free of the frame to the standing position on the ambulator; the compact base of the ambulator containing a drive mechanism for moving the ambulator in any desired direction through controls conveniently located on an arm rest. When the ambulator is mated with the frame, the linkage is lowered to carry the paraplegic in the sitting position.

Abstract: A guidable bogie truck for a mobile crane, such as a mobile gantry crane, includes a frame having longitudinal supports; a pair of wheel mechanisms connected to one end of the frame and a pair of wheel mechanisms connected to the opposite end of the frame, one of the pairs of wheel mechanisms being connected to pivotable axles which allows the associated pair of wheel mechanisms to constitute guide wheel mechanisms; four support legs movably connected to the frame; lifting devices connected to each of the four support legs to extend them downwardly to contact the ground and support the frame or to retract them upwardly towards the frame; wheel drive motors for turning the wheel mechanisms; adjustment motors for pivoting the pivotable wheel axles; and a common control device for controlling the operation of the bogie truck parts.

Abstract: A clutch pedal pivoting a fore and aft shaft mounted in a fire wall for transmission of the clutch actuating force through the fire wall for disengaging and engaging a vehicle clutch.

Abstract: A transmission control mechanism for a vehicle having a dual hydrostatic transmission vehicle drive system having a first and second lever mounted to respective displacement control rods of transmission pump units. A cross member communicates with the levers via connecting rods. A steering column is mounted to the cross member. The steering column is mounted in the vehicle such that it can experience simultaneous rotational and pivotal motion. Pivoting of the steering column causes the pump units to displace with a constant relative displacement, and rotation of the steering column causes the pumps to displace with a differential relative displacement.

Abstract: A twin control lever arrangement for the control of three functions such as hydraulic valves. The arrangement includes a first control lever (10) mounted on a first mounting means (12) for pivoting about first (A) and second (B) perpendicular axes to operate first and second functions respectively and a second control lever (13) mounted on a second mounting means (15) for pivoting about a third axis (C) aligned with the first axis (A) and a fourth axis (D) parallel to the second axis (B). Pivoting of the second lever (13) about the third axis (C) operates the third function and a link member (32) extends generally perpendicularly to the two control levers (10,13) to operatively connect the levers by way of pivotal connections at both ends of the link member so that the two levers pivot together about the second and fourth axes to allow either lever to operate the second function.

Abstract: On an automotive vehicle having a stick-shift transmission, the air conditioner is turned off when the driver closes a switch in the handle of the gear shift lever to turn on an ultrasonic transmitter. A timer keeps the air conditioner off, following the signal from the ultrasonic transmitter, for a time interval long enough for the driver to shift through the lower gears and into high gear.

Abstract: A safety automobile is reduced in width compared to conventional vehicles and tapers forwardly to nearly a point to minimize head-on collision danger and provide lateral deflection of the vehicle to left or right on striking an obstruction. A dual power system is provided for maximum economy. A rear wheel electric drive is used for short range in-town operation and a front wheel internal combustion engine drive is employed for long range travel. The two drives are independent and can be employed simultaneously in heavy weather or in off-road situations.

Abstract: An inhibit lock arrangement for a marine engine controller including a valve-operating shaft axially movable by an operator's handle, when set in a "start" position, for opening a valve whereby a fluid pressure signal is transmitted to the engine to start the engine. Axial movement of the shaft may be blocked by a piston rod actuated by a cylinder when the cylinder is pressurized by a pressure signal indicating an undesirable engine operating or malfunctioning condition. A pair of pivotable latches disposed on each side of the operator's handle for retaining the handle in a neutral position until a release piston is actuated by the operator for releasing the latches and permitting the handle to be moved through a slot but not into the "start" positions until the undesirable condition has been eliminated.

Abstract: The present invention provides an electric vehicle, comprising a chassis having a pair of rear wheels and a steerable front wheel driven by an electric motor, a tread board disposed between the wheels for a standing user or driver, and a foot-operated speed control element, wherein control element is formed by a portion of the tread board (6) being designed as a rocking pedal (7) for controlling the electric motor by depression of the front portion of the pedal, and for actuating the brakes by depression of the rear pedal portion.

Abstract: A hydraulic control system is disclosed for a hydrostatically operated earth-working machine which controls ground speed, forward and reverse movement, steering, and braking, for the machine. The hydraulic control system includes an improved mono stick assembly having a manually operable handle assembly mounted within a resilient pivot bushing that permits pivotal movement of the handle assembly in any direction. The pivotal movement of the handle assembly is transmitted to a control rod assembly which is mounted to a universal pivot joint that permits both longitudinal sliding movement and lateral pivotal movement of the rod assembly in response to selective pivotal movement of the handle assembly. Cable assemblies are mounted between the rod assembly and the hydraulic propulsion pump and steering valve.

Abstract: An operating device for a swivel working machine so constructed that a fluid pressure motor disposed at the vehicle body is rotated in the forward and reverse directions and stopped by a control valve disposed on the swivel base, and that speed change gears between said motor and travelling means are interlockingly connected to a swing lever disposed at said swivel base. Said lever is constructed so as to be swingingly operated in two directions and its swing operations in one direction and in the other direction may operate said control valve and said speed change gears, respectively.

Abstract: The invention relates to an anti-theft device especially but not solely for automobile vehicles which causes blocking of the gear-change lever.The gear-change lever is articulated about an axis substantially parallel with the floor of the vehicle and close to this floor. The floor has attached to it a lock device arranged to imprison the said lever after it has been pivoted down flat.

Abstract: This is a combination accelerator and brake control mechanism wherein there is a single pedal serving both as the gas control and the brake control. The single pedal is pivoted on a pivot fixed in a base, the pedal extending through the vehicle floor board. Pressing with the foot on the superior or upper part of the single pedal controls the gas to the vehicle motor, pressing with the foot on the lower or inferior part of the pedal controls the brakes of the vehicle. A see-saw rod contacts directly or indirectly with the ends of both the vehicle gas control rod or the brake control rod, and the motion of the pedal pressed down on its top end acting through the see-saw rod moves the gas control rod from neutral position to gas control position, and pressing the lower end of the pedal actuates the brake control rod.

Abstract: The invention comprehends a remote control mechanism comprising push-pull control links operatively connected at one end to spaced locations of a beam, said beam being pivotally movable about mutually displaced first and second axes, said spaced locations of said beam moving equally in the same direction upon pivoting of said beam about said first axis, said spaced locations of said beam moving in opposite directions relative to said control links upon pivoting of said beam about said second axis, one of said axes being fixed and the other axis rotating about said one axis when said beam is pivoted about said one axis, paired coincident movement of said control links being complementary to both said spaced locations of said beam moving equally in said same direction, and differential relative movement of said control links being complementary to said spaced locations of said beam moving in said opposite directions.

Abstract: The vehicle including a dual function hand operated control system including a lever affixed to a rotatable shaft, two spaced arms extending generally upwardly from the shaft forward of the lever, one the arms being pivotally connected to a substantially vertical push rod which extends downwardly into a substantially vertical sleeve, the lower end of the sleeve being operatively connected to a power brake booster through pivotally connecting linkage, and the second arm being operatively connected to a throttle cable extending from the dash through flexible connecting means.

Abstract: A hydrofoil sailboat having a sailing frame that is secured by swivel connection to a conventional hull, the frame comprising a plurality of prestressed interconnected spars, guys and a sail, a pair of buoyant hydrofoils, one at each of the leeward extremities of the frame, and a single manually operable tiller situated at the hull for governing the direction of movement by articulating the hydrofoils in accordance with the point of sailing and the direction of the wind. The tiller is operatively associated with the hydrofoils through pairs of spreaders and multiple cables. The sail is inclined to the vertical axis, and is tightly stretched to define an air foil spaced laterally away from the hull. The crank adjusts the inclination of sail and the hydrofoils cancel out listing moments. The sail frame exerts a towing force on the hull.