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Penny+Giles Controls Inc., has expanded its line of joystick controls for mobile applications with the development of a new multi-axis unit targeted toward applications such as forklift trucks and machine remote control systems where the combination of compact size and functionality are important. The JC400 joystick, which is designed for use with an electronic controller, offers proportional or digital fingertip control in as many as three axes and is available with either analog or digital outputs, according to the Schaumburg, Ill., supplier.

The Penny+Giles range covers eight product series, from the JC100 single-axis finger control to the JC600 four-axis large joystick with multiple handle options. "The JC400 is a next generation product," noted Fred Howse, vice president, business development. "It's an evolutionary development with specific objectives such as very competitive pricing, mounting interchangeability with some competitive products, very high mechanical strength for its size and the ability to use the existing "small" joystick handles in our range."

The analog version of the JC400 control gives an output signal proportional to the distance and direction over which the handle is moved and can provide switched reference signals to confirm the direction of movement, the company said. It can also he configured to provide fault detection signals to the controller. To minimize the depth required below the customer's mounting panel (40.5 mm), all connections to the joystick are made via flying leads which are positioned directly below the mounting flange.

The digital version of the JC400 joystick provide three switches in each direction, and where required, a detent mechanism can be included to provide the operator with tactile feedback when each switch is actuated. The termination of the digital version is via a Dupont automotive connector.

The joystick, which the company said has an expected life beyond five million cycles, is designed for both original equipment and retrofit installations. A choice of mounting flanges are available, along with threaded inserts. Handle options are the same as those offered on the current range of JC300 joystick controls, including the Z-axis controls handles.

# posted by Medical Information : 4:11 AM