Getting a firm grip on mobile machinery

With its 321G, elobau is introducing a multifunctional joystick grip that allows operators of mobile machinery to carry out their work more efficiently and comfortably. The joystick grip is said to be suitable for such tasks as the precise and safe operation of front loader and hydraulic functions.

“It provides manufacturers of agricultural, construction and special machines with a flexible and compact solution for the triedandtested J2 joystick base,” states elobau.

The 321G can be equipped with up to six push buttons or up to four push buttons and a thumbwheel. The joystick grip, therefore, allows the operator to centrally control more functions on the machine than is usually possible. This saves the operator from continually alternating between the joystick and other operating elements or the control panel.

Easy acess to functions

“The ergonomic layout of the components means that the operator can access the functions with ease and ensures fatiguefree operation. Furthermore, thanks to backprinted plastic inlays, the abrasionresistant symbols help the user to work efficiently and safely well into the future.”

All operator controls integrated in the grip can be freely configured and therefore provide the machine manufacturer with a high degree of flexibility, it addds. Blind covers are available for unused functions. The push button technology used can be based on either contactless Hall or Reed switches, and the thumbwheel is available with either detent or nodetent actuation.

In addition to night illumination, elobau can equip the 321G with optional function illumination for individual control elements. As far as communication is concerned, the output signals are transmitted either analogue or using the CAN bus protocol (J1939/CANopen).

“Measuring 43 x 90 x 55 mm, the joystick grip offers a high level of functionality in an extremely compact design, compared to other products available on the market,” states elobau. “The armrests of vehicles usually have very limited space for the functions. In such cases, the 321G, with its up to six push buttons, can provide a useful extension for the functions. Thanks to its responsive operation, it is particularly suited to applications such as front loader control where precise control is often required.”

Hydraulics' float position

For the float position of the hydraulics, the joystick has detent points at both the forward and right end positions, in order to hold the 321G at the respective position. The joystick grip conforms to EU 167/2013 (Mother Regulation) and has protection class IP5K4.

The J2 compact joystick from elobau has already long been used successfully, for example, in controlling front loader functions on tractors. It is mounted to the armrest from underneath, is described as highly reliable, has a long service life and is available with various actuation types – eg, nodetent or detent actuation.