Operator control system for a materials handling vehicle

Abstract

An operator control system (60) for a materials handling vehicle includes an operator station (42) having a support structure (54). The operator control system includes an operator control assembly (62, 64) having a housing (66, 130) mounted to or integral with the support structure and at least one control element (142) for controlling a vehicle function. The control element is mounted within a recess (140) of the housing. A gripping member (150) extends over the recess. An arrangement having two control assemblies is also disclosed, including a steering control (84) whose orientation can be changed relative to the housing.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention provides an operator control system for a material handling vehicle, wherein one or more components of the operator control system are adjustable. Background Technology

[0002] Known material handling vehicles include a power unit, a mast assembly, and an operator's cabin. The mast assembly may include multiple mast welds, wherein a first mast weld can be fixed to the power unit, and one or more other mast welds can be supported for telescopic movement. The operator's cabin in the material handling vehicle can be supported on the mast assembly and moved vertically to position the operator to retrieve items from shelves at an elevated position. Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to a first aspect of this disclosure, an operator control system for a material handling vehicle is provided, wherein the material handling vehicle includes an operator's workstation having a floor and a support structure, the operator control system including: an operator control component; a fixing structure coupled to the support structure to selectively support the operator control component at multiple angular orientations relative to the support structure; and a vertical adjustment component coupled to the operator control component to selectively support the operator control component at multiple vertical positions relative to the floor.

[0004] The mounting structure may include a mounting plate having one or more first openings and one or more second openings, and a plurality of fasteners connecting the housing of the operator control assembly to the support structure. When the fasteners are received in one or more first openings of the mounting plate, the operator control assembly may be mounted relative to the support structure at a first angular orientation; when the fasteners are received in one or more second openings of the mounting plate, the operator control assembly may be mounted relative to the support structure at a second angular orientation, wherein the second angular orientation may differ from the first angular orientation. When moved from the first angular orientation to the second angular orientation, the operator control assembly may rotate about an axis generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the material handling vehicle.

[0005] The support structure may include a fixed housing portion and a movable housing portion, wherein the movable housing portion may be coupled to the operator control component and be able to move together with the operator control component, and may be positioned to telescopically move above the fixed housing portion.

[0006] The operator control component can move continuously in the vertical direction between a first vertical position and a second vertical position.

[0007] The vertical adjustment assembly may include: a mounting plate attached to the support wall of the material handling vehicle, a track member attached to the mounting plate, a carriage assembly movably connected to the track member and connected to the fixed structure, and a locking gas spring connected to the fixed structure and the mounting plate to control the vertical position of the operator control assembly.

[0008] According to a second aspect of this disclosure, an operator control system for a material handling vehicle is provided, wherein the material handling vehicle includes an operator's workstation having a floor, a first support structure, and a second support structure spaced laterally from the first support structure. The operator control system includes: a first operator control component; a first fixing structure coupled to the first support structure to selectively support the first operator control component at multiple angular orientations relative to the first support structure; a first vertical adjustment component coupled to the first operator control component to selectively support the first operator control component at multiple vertical positions relative to the floor; and a second operator control component; a second fixing structure coupled to the second support structure to selectively support the second operator control component at multiple angular orientations relative to the second support structure; and a second vertical adjustment component coupled to the second operator control component to selectively support the second operator control component at multiple vertical positions relative to the floor.

[0009] The first mounting structure may include a first mounting plate having one or more first openings and one or more second openings, and a plurality of first fasteners connecting a first housing of a first operator control assembly to a first support structure. When the plurality of first fasteners are received in the one or more first openings, the first operator control assembly may be mounted at a first angular orientation relative to the first support structure; when the plurality of first fasteners are received in the one or more second openings, the first operator control assembly may be mounted at a second angular orientation relative to the first support structure, wherein the second angular orientation may differ from the first angular orientation. The second mounting structure may include a second mounting plate having one or more third openings and one or more fourth openings, and a plurality of second fasteners connecting a second housing of a second operator control assembly to a second support structure. When the plurality of second fasteners are received in the one or more third openings, the second operator control assembly may be mounted at a third angular orientation relative to the second support structure; when the plurality of second fasteners are received in the one or more fourth openings, the second operator control assembly may be mounted at a fourth angular orientation relative to the second support structure, wherein the fourth angular orientation may differ from the third angular orientation.

[0010] When moving from the first angular orientation to the second angular orientation, the first operator control component can rotate about a first axis that is generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the material handling vehicle, and when moving from the third angular orientation to the fourth angular orientation, the second operator control component can rotate in the opposite direction about a second axis that is generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the material handling vehicle.

[0011] The first support structure may include a first fixed housing portion and a first movable housing portion, wherein the first movable housing portion can be connected to and moved together with the first operator control component, and can be positioned to perform telescopic movements on the first fixed housing portion. The second support structure may include a second fixed housing portion and a second movable housing portion, wherein the second movable housing portion can be connected to and moved together with the second operator control component, and can be positioned to perform telescopic movements on the second fixed housing portion.

[0012] The first operator control component can move continuously in the vertical direction between the first vertical position and the second vertical position, and the second operator control component can move continuously in the vertical direction between the third vertical position and the fourth vertical position.

[0013] At least one of the angle orientation or vertical position of the first operator control component can be adjusted independently of at least one of the angle orientation or vertical position of the second operator control component.

[0014] The first vertical adjustment assembly may include: a first mounting plate attached to a support wall of a material handling vehicle; a first track member attached to the first mounting plate; a first carriage assembly movably connected to the first track member and connected to a first fixed structure; and a first locking gas spring connected to the first fixed structure and the first mounting plate to control the vertical position of a first operator control assembly. The second vertical adjustment assembly may include: a second mounting plate attached to a support wall of a material handling vehicle; a second track member attached to the second mounting plate; a second carriage assembly movably connected to the second track member and connected to a second fixed structure; and a second locking gas spring connected to the second fixed structure and the second mounting plate to control the vertical position of a second operator control assembly.

[0015] According to a third aspect of this disclosure, an operator control system for a material handling vehicle is provided, wherein the material handling vehicle includes an operator's workstation having a generally horizontal floor surface and a support structure. The operator control system includes: an operator control assembly and a vertical adjustment assembly coupled to the operator control assembly to selectively support the operator control assembly at a plurality of vertical positions relative to the generally horizontal floor surface. The operator control assembly may include a housing mounted to the support structure and a steering assembly for steering the material handling vehicle. The steering assembly may include a steering control structure and a base structure, the steering control structure extending from the base structure, wherein the steering assembly is movable relative to a first housing such that the steering assembly can be positioned in at least one of a first position or a second position. When in the first position, the steering control structure may extend from the base structure generally in a first orientation, while when in the second position, the steering control structure may extend from the base structure generally in a second orientation different from the first orientation.

[0016] The base structure may include a base plate and a mounting member connected to the base plate, wherein the mounting member is pivotally mounted within a receiving portion of the housing to allow the steering assembly to move between a first position and a second position.

[0017] When the steering assembly is positioned in a first position, the steering control structure may be oriented at an acute angle relative to a vertical plane, wherein the vertical plane may be perpendicular to the generally horizontal floor surface of the vehicle. When the steering assembly is positioned in a second position, the steering control structure may be oriented at an acute angle relative to a horizontal plane, wherein the horizontal plane may be parallel to the generally horizontal floor surface of the vehicle.

[0018] The operator control system may further include a locking component for locking the steering component in at least one of a first position or a second position, wherein the locking component includes a locking release structure for unlocking the locking component, thereby enabling the steering component to move between at least one of the first position or the second position.

[0019] The steering assembly can move independently of the support structure and the housing, such that when the steering assembly is in a first position and a second position, the support structure and the housing remain in the same position. The housing may also include a control element area, and the steering assembly can move independently of the control element area.

[0020] The support structure may include a fixed housing portion and a movable housing portion, wherein the movable housing portion may be coupled to the operator control component and be able to move together with the operator control component, and may be positioned to telescopically move above the fixed housing portion.

[0021] The operator control component can move continuously in the vertical direction between a first vertical position and a second vertical position.

[0022] The vertical adjustment assembly may include: a mounting plate attached to a support wall of the vehicle, a track member attached to the mounting plate, a carriage assembly movably connected to the track member and to a fixed structure, and a locking gas spring connected to the fixed structure and the mounting plate to control the vertical position of the operator control assembly.

[0023] According to a fourth aspect of this disclosure, an operator control system for a material handling vehicle is provided, wherein the material handling vehicle includes an operator's workstation having a generally horizontal floor surface, a first support structure, and a second support structure spaced laterally from the first support structure. The operator control system includes a first operator control assembly and a second operator control assembly, each including a second housing mounted to the second support structure. The first operator control assembly may include the first housing mounted to the first support structure and a steering assembly for steering the material handling vehicle. The steering assembly may include a steering control structure and a base structure, the steering control structure extending from the base structure, wherein the steering assembly is movable relative to the first housing such that the steering assembly can be positioned in at least one of a first position or a second position. When in the first position, the steering control structure may extend from the base structure generally in a first orientation, while when in the second position, the steering control structure may extend from the base structure generally in a second orientation different from the first orientation. The operator control system may further include: a first vertical adjustment component coupled to the first operator control component to selectively position the first operator control component at a plurality of vertical positions relative to a generally horizontal floor surface; and a second vertical adjustment component coupled to the second operator control component to selectively position the second operator control component at a plurality of vertical positions relative to a generally horizontal floor surface.

[0024] The base structure may include a base plate and a mounting member connected to the base plate, wherein the mounting member is pivotally mounted within a receiving portion of the housing to allow the steering assembly to move between a first position and a second position.

[0025] When the steering assembly is positioned in a first position, the steering control structure may be oriented at an acute angle relative to a vertical plane, wherein the vertical plane may be perpendicular to the generally horizontal floor surface of the vehicle. When the steering assembly is positioned in a second position, the steering control structure may be oriented at an acute angle relative to a horizontal plane, wherein the horizontal plane may be parallel to the generally horizontal floor surface of the vehicle.

[0026] The steering assembly can move independently of the first support structure and the first housing, such that when the steering assembly is in a first position and a second position, the first support structure and the first housing remain in the same position. The first housing may further include a control element region, and the steering assembly can move independently of the control element region.

[0027] The first support structure may include a first fixed housing portion and a first movable housing portion, wherein the first movable housing portion can be connected to and moved together with the first operator control component, and can be positioned to perform telescopic movements on the first fixed housing portion. The second support structure may include a second fixed housing portion and a second movable housing portion, wherein the second movable housing portion can be connected to and moved together with the second operator control component, and can be positioned to perform telescopic movements on the second fixed housing portion.

[0028] The first operator control component can move continuously in the vertical direction between the first vertical position and the second vertical position, and the second operator control component can move continuously in the vertical direction between the third vertical position and the fourth vertical position.

[0029] The vertical position of the first operator control component can be adjusted independently of the vertical position of the second operator control component.

[0030] The vertical position of the second operator control component can be adjusted independently of at least one of the vertical position of the first operator control component or the positioning of the steering component.

[0031] The first vertical adjustment assembly may include: a first mounting plate attached to a support wall of a material handling vehicle; a first track member attached to the first mounting plate; a first carriage assembly movably connected to the first track member and connected to a first fixed structure; and a first locking gas spring connected to the first fixed structure and the first mounting plate to control the vertical position of a first operator control assembly. The second vertical adjustment assembly may include: a second mounting plate attached to a support wall of a material handling vehicle; a second track member attached to the second mounting plate; a second carriage assembly movably connected to the second track member and connected to a second fixed structure; and a second locking gas spring connected to the second fixed structure and the second mounting plate to control the vertical position of a second operator control assembly.

[0032] According to a fifth aspect of this disclosure, an operator control system for a material handling vehicle is provided, wherein the material handling vehicle includes an operator's workstation with a support structure. The operator control system includes: an operator control component and a vertical adjustment component coupled to the operator control component to selectively support the operator control component at a plurality of vertical positions relative to the floor. The operator control component may include a housing mounted to the support structure, the housing including: a recess; a first elongated gripping member mounted to the housing at at least one gripping mounting position and extending over the recess; and a first control element mounted to the housing within the recess, wherein the first control element can be configured to control the functions of the material handling vehicle. The first elongated gripping member can be replaced by a second elongated gripping member mounted to the housing at the at least one gripping mounting position and extending over the recess and having a different size and / or a different configuration than the first gripping member.

[0033] The at least one gripping mounting position may include a first gripping mounting position and a second gripping mounting position, wherein the first gripping mounting position may be on a first side of the recess, and the second gripping mounting position may be on a second side of the recess, the second side of the recess being opposite to the first side of the recess.

[0034] The support structure may include a fixed housing portion and a movable housing portion, wherein the movable housing portion may be coupled to the operator control component and be able to move together with the operator control component, and may be positioned to telescopically move above the fixed housing portion.

[0035] The operator control component can move continuously in the vertical direction between a first vertical position and a second vertical position.

[0036] The vertical adjustment assembly may include: a mounting plate attached to a support wall of the vehicle, a track member attached to the mounting plate, a carriage assembly movably connected to the track member and to a fixed structure, and a locking gas spring connected to the fixed structure and the mounting plate to control the vertical position of the operator control assembly.

[0037] According to a sixth aspect of this disclosure, an operator control system for a material handling vehicle is provided, wherein the material handling vehicle includes an operator's workstation with a support structure. The operator control system includes: an operator control assembly and a vertical adjustment assembly coupled to the operator control assembly to selectively support the operator control assembly at multiple vertical positions relative to the floor. The operator control assembly may include a housing mounted to the support structure, the housing including: a recess; a first elongated gripping member mounted to the housing and extending over the recess; and a first control element mounted to the housing within the recess, wherein the first control element can be configured to control the functions of the material handling vehicle and can be positioned at multiple positions including two end positions. The first elongated gripping member may be replaced by a second elongated gripping member extending over the recess and having a different size and / or a different configuration than the first gripping member, and / or the first control element may be replaced by a second control element that can be positioned at multiple positions including two end positions and has a different size and / or a different configuration than the first control element. When the first control element or the second control element is positioned in any of its multiple positions, the gap between one of the first control element or the second control element and an adjacent portion of one of the first gripping members or the second gripping members may fall within the range from the minimum gap distance to the maximum reach distance.

[0038] The first elongated gripping member can be fixed to the housing at the first and second gripping mounting positions, wherein the first gripping mounting position can be on the first side of the recess, and the second gripping mounting position can be on the second side of the recess, the second side of the recess being opposite to the first side of the recess.

[0039] According to a seventh aspect of this disclosure, an operator control system for a material handling vehicle is provided, wherein the material handling vehicle includes an operator's workstation having a floor and a support structure, and the operator control system includes an operator control assembly comprising: a housing mounted to the support structure; a vertical adjustment assembly coupled to the operator control assembly to selectively support the operator control assembly at a plurality of vertical positions relative to the floor; and at least one of the following features: a steering assembly for steering the material handling vehicle; or a fixing structure coupled to the support structure to selectively support the operator control assembly at a plurality of angular orientations relative to the support structure. The steering assembly may include a steering control structure and a base structure, the steering control structure extending from the base structure, wherein the steering assembly is movable relative to a first housing such that the steering assembly can be positioned in at least one of a first position or a second position. The steering control structure may extend from the base structure substantially in a first orientation when in the first position and substantially in a second orientation when in the second position, wherein the second orientation may differ from the first orientation.

[0040] According to an eighth aspect of this disclosure, an operator control system for a material handling vehicle is provided, wherein the material handling vehicle includes an operator's workstation having a floor and a support structure, and the operator control system includes an operator control assembly comprising: a housing mounted to the support structure and including a recess; a vertical adjustment assembly coupled to the operator control assembly to selectively support the operator control assembly at a plurality of vertical positions relative to the floor; and at least one of the following features: a first control element mounted to the housing within the recess, and a first elongated gripping member mounted to the housing at at least one gripping mounting position and extending over the recess; or a fixing structure coupled to the support structure to selectively support the operator control assembly at a plurality of angular orientations relative to the support structure. The first elongated gripping member may be replaced by a second elongated gripping member having a different size and / or a different configuration than the first gripping member, and the first control element may be replaced by a second control element that can be positioned in a plurality of positions including two end positions and has a different size and / or a different configuration than the first control element.

[0041] According to a ninth aspect of this disclosure, an operator control system for a material handling vehicle is provided, wherein the material handling vehicle includes an operator's workstation having a floor, a first support structure, and a second support structure spaced laterally from the first support structure. The operator control system includes a first operator control assembly and a second operator control assembly. The first operator control assembly may include: a first housing mounted to the first support structure; a first vertical adjustment assembly coupled to the first operator control assembly to selectively support the first operator control assembly at a plurality of vertical positions relative to the floor; and at least one of the following features: a steering assembly for steering the material handling vehicle; or a first fixing structure coupled to the first support structure to selectively support the first operator control assembly at a plurality of angular orientations relative to the first support structure. The steering assembly may include a steering control structure and a base structure, the steering control structure extending from the base structure, wherein the steering assembly is movable relative to the first housing such that the steering assembly can be positioned in at least one of a first position or a second position. The steering control structure may extend from the base structure generally in a first orientation when in the first position and generally in a second orientation when in the second position, wherein the second orientation may differ from the first orientation. The second operator control assembly may include: a second housing mounted to a second support structure and including a recess; a second vertical adjustment assembly coupled to the second operator control assembly to selectively support the second operator control assembly at multiple vertical positions relative to the floor; and at least one of the following features: a first control element mounted to the housing within the recess, and a first elongated gripping member mounted to the housing at at least one gripping mounting position and extending over the recess; or a second fixing structure coupled to the second support structure to selectively support the second operator control assembly at multiple angular orientations relative to the second support structure. The first elongated gripping member may be replaced by a second elongated gripping member having a different size and / or a different construction than the first gripping member, and the first control element may be replaced by a second control element that can be positioned in multiple positions including two end positions and has a different size and / or a different construction than the first control element.

[0042] According to a tenth aspect of this disclosure, an operator control system for a material handling vehicle is provided, the material handling vehicle including an operator's workstation with a support structure. The operator control system includes an operator control assembly comprising: a housing mounted to or integral with the support structure, the housing including: a recess; a first elongated gripping member mounted to the housing and extending over the housing recess; and a first control element mounted within the recess to the housing, the first control element being configured to control the functions of the material handling vehicle and being locating in a plurality of positions including two end positions. At least one of the following features is provided: the first elongated gripping member can be replaced by a second elongated gripping member extending over the housing recess and having a different size and / or a different configuration than the first gripping member; or the first control element can be replaced by a second control element, the second control unit being locating in a plurality of positions including two end positions and having a different size and / or a different configuration than the first control unit. When the first control element or the second control element is positioned in any of its multiple positions, the gap between one of the first control element or the second control element and an adjacent portion of one of the first gripping members or the second gripping members falls within the range from the minimum gap distance to the maximum reach distance.

[0043] The recessed portion of the housing can have a curved shape.

[0044] The first control element can be a switch or a joystick.

[0045] The first elongated gripping member can be fixed to the housing at the first and second gripping mounting positions, wherein the first gripping mounting position is on the first side of the housing recess, and the second gripping mounting position is on the second side of the housing recess, the second side of the housing recess being opposite to the first side of the housing recess.

[0046] The first elongated gripping member may include a third control element configured to control the functions of the material handling vehicle.

[0047] According to the eleventh aspect of this disclosure, an operator control system for a material handling vehicle is provided, the material handling vehicle including an operator's workstation with a support structure. The operator control system includes an operator control assembly comprising: a housing mounted to or integral with the support structure, the housing including: a recess; a first elongated gripping member mounted to the housing at at least one gripping mounting position and extending over the housing recess; and a first control element mounted within the recess to the housing, the first control element being configured to control the functions of the material handling vehicle. The first elongated gripping member can be replaced by a second elongated gripping member mounted to the housing at the at least one gripping mounting position and extending over the housing recess, and having a different size and / or a different configuration than the first gripping member.

[0048] The recessed portion of the housing can have a curved shape.

[0049] According to a twelfth aspect of this disclosure, an operator control system for a material handling vehicle is provided, the material handling vehicle including an operator's workstation having a first support structure. The operator control system includes a first operator control assembly comprising: a first housing mounted to or integral with the first support structure, the first housing including a receiving portion; and a steering assembly for steering the material handling vehicle. The steering assembly includes a steering control structure and a base structure, the steering control structure extending from the base structure. The base structure includes a base plate and a mounting member coupled to the base plate, the mounting member being pivotally mounted within the receiving portion of the first housing, such that the steering assembly is movable between at least a first position and a second position. When in the first position, the steering control structure extends from the base structure generally in a first orientation, while when in the second position, the steering control structure extends from the base structure generally in a second orientation different from the first orientation.

[0050] The first housing may further include a control element region, and the steering assembly may move independently of the control element region. Regardless of whether the steering control assembly is in the first or second position, the orientation of the control element region relative to the first support structure may remain unchanged.

[0051] The mounting component can have a hemispherical shape, and the receiving part can have a corresponding hemispherical shape.

[0052] The substrate may include multiple notches surrounding the periphery of the substrate.

[0053] When the steering assembly is positioned in a first position, the steering control structure may be oriented at an acute angle relative to a vertical plane, wherein the vertical plane is perpendicular to the generally horizontal floor surface of the vehicle. When the steering assembly is positioned in a second position, the steering control structure may be oriented at an acute angle relative to a horizontal plane, wherein the horizontal plane is parallel to the generally horizontal floor surface of the vehicle.

[0054] The operator control system may further include a locking component for locking the steering assembly in at least one of a first position or a second position. The locking component may include a locking release mechanism for unlocking the locking component, thereby enabling the steering assembly to move between at least one of the first position or the second position.

[0055] According to a thirteenth aspect of this disclosure, an operator control system for a material handling vehicle is provided. The material handling vehicle includes an operator's workstation having a first support structure and a second support structure, wherein the first support structure and the second support structure are spaced apart from each other in a lateral direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the material handling vehicle. The operator control system includes: a first operator control component supported on the first support structure via a first fixing structure, the first fixing structure selectively supporting the first operator control component relative to the first support structure at at least one of a first angular orientation and a second angular orientation; and a second operator control component supported on the second support structure via a second fixing structure, the second fixing structure selectively supporting the second operator control component relative to the second support structure at at least one of a first angular orientation and a second angular orientation. The positioning of the first operator control component and the second operator control component at their respective first angular orientation or second angular orientation depends on the spacing between the first support structure and the second support structure in the lateral direction.

[0056] The first and second mounting structures may each include a mounting plate connected to a respective first or second support structure and a plurality of fasteners extending through an opening provided in the mounting plate. The fasteners may connect the respective first and second housings of the first and second operator control assemblies to the corresponding support structures.

[0057] Each mounting plate may include one or more first openings and one or more second openings. When a fastener is received in one or more first openings of the mounting plate of the first fixing structure, a first operator control component may be positioned relative to the first support structure at a first angular orientation. When moved from the first angular orientation to a second angular orientation, the first operator control component may rotate about a first axis substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the material handling vehicle, such that when a fastener is received in one or more second openings, the first operator control component is mounted at a second angular orientation. When a fastener is received in one or more first openings of the mounting plate of the second fixing structure, a second operator control component may be positioned relative to the second support structure at a first angular orientation. When moved from the first angular orientation to the second angular orientation, the second operator control component may rotate about a second axis substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the material handling vehicle, such that when a fastener is received in one or more second openings, the second operator control component is mounted at a second angular orientation.

[0058] The first housing may have a curved lower surface received by the curved upper surface of the first support structure, and the second housing may have a curved lower surface received by the curved upper surface of the second support structure.

[0059] For vehicles with a narrower width, the first operator control component and the second operator control component can be positioned at a first angular orientation; for vehicles with a wider width, the first operator control component and the second operator control component can be positioned at a second angular orientation.

[0060] According to a fourteenth aspect of this disclosure, an operator control system for a material handling vehicle is provided, the material handling vehicle including an operator's workstation having a generally horizontal floor surface and a support structure. The operator control system includes: an operator control component supported by the support structure; and a vertical adjustment component coupled to the operator control component to selectively support the operator control component at a plurality of vertical positions on the support structure relative to the generally horizontal floor surface. The operator control system also includes at least one of the following features:

[0061] A housing mounted to a support structure; and a steering assembly for steering a material handling vehicle, the steering assembly including a steering control structure and a base structure, the steering control structure extending from the base structure, wherein the steering assembly is movable relative to the housing such that the steering assembly can be positioned in at least one of a first position or a second position. When in the first position, the steering control structure extends from the base structure generally in a first orientation. When in the second position, the steering control structure extends from the base structure generally in a second orientation different from the first orientation;

[0062] A fixed structure, connected to a supporting structure, selectively supports operator control components at multiple angular orientations relative to the supporting structure; or

[0063] A housing, mounted to a support structure, includes: a recess; a first elongated gripping member mounted to the housing at at least one gripping mounting location and extending over the recess; and a first control element mounted to the housing within the recess, the first control element being configured to control the function of a material handling vehicle. The first elongated gripping member can be replaced by a second elongated gripping member, which is mounted to the housing at the at least one gripping mounting location and extends over the recess and has a different size and / or a different configuration than the first gripping member.

[0064] The various aspects and embodiments of this disclosure address various technical problems related to the need for adjustable operator control in order to provide ergonomic positioning for operators of different heights and to accommodate operator preferences. This disclosure provides a first technical solution relating to a steering assembly capable of moving between at least two positions and locking in each position. The movable steering assembly rotates between positions to allow for quick and easy adjustment to accommodate different operator heights and to provide flexibility of use, for example, based on operator preferences, driving conditions, and / or the task to be performed. The steering assembly also moves independently of other control structures in the material handling vehicle to avoid obstructing the operator's compartment and to prevent accidental contact between the steering assembly and the operator or other objects. Another technical solution relates to an operator control assembly having one or more interchangeable parts, which can be replaced with corresponding parts of different sizes and / or configurations to ensure ergonomic positioning and better accessibility to control elements. These parts may be common in several different types or models of material handling vehicles. The operator control assembly also includes an elongated gripping member that provides a stable grip for the operator during operation of the material handling vehicle. Another technical solution involves positioning the operator control component relative to the supporting structure at two or more angular orientations to provide ergonomic hand positioning based on, for example, the width of a material handling vehicle. Yet another technical solution involves adjusting the vertical position of the operator control component to provide ergonomic positioning for different operators and adapt to operator preferences. Each of these adjustment features can be used individually or in combination with one or more other adjustment features. This document also addresses other technical problems and corresponding solutions. Attached Figure Description

[0065] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a material handling vehicle including an operator control system according to an embodiment;

[0066] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The front view of the operator control system shown;

[0067] Figure 2A This is a rear front view of the operator control system according to an embodiment;

[0068] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A perspective view of the operator control components of the operator control system shown;

[0069] Figure 3A This is a perspective view of the operator control component according to an embodiment;

[0070] Figure 4 and Figure 5 yes Figure 2 A perspective view of the operator control components of the operator control system shown;

[0071] Figure 6-8 yes Figure 3-6 A cross-sectional view of the operator control components shown;

[0072] Figure 9 yes Figure 2 A perspective view of another operator control component of the operator control system shown;

[0073] Figure 10A and 10B This is a perspective view of the operator control component according to an embodiment;

[0074] Figure 11A-11F This is a cross-sectional view of the operator control component according to an embodiment;

[0075] Figure 12A and 12B yes Figure 2 The rear front view of the operator control system shown;

[0076] Figures 13A-13D yes Figure 12A and 12B An enlarged view of the operator control components of the operator control system;

[0077] Figure 14 This is a perspective view of the operator control component according to an embodiment;

[0078] Figure 15 This is a perspective view of a material handling vehicle including platform components, operator control components, and a non-horizontal observation window according to an embodiment;

[0079] Figure 16 It has Figure 15 The rear front view of the platform component in the non-horizontal observation window shown;

[0080] Figure 17 It has Figure 15 The back perspective view of the platform component shown in the non-horizontal view window;

[0081] Figures 17A-17C This is a perspective view of the overhead protective extension according to an embodiment;

[0082] Figure 18 It is shown in an elevated position, with an operator's compartment and a non-horizontal observation window. Figure 15 Rear front view of the material handling vehicle;

[0083] Figure 19A yes Figure 15 A partial cross-sectional view of a material handling vehicle, showing the mast assembly, the non-horizontal observation window, and the space between them;

[0084] Figure 19B yes Figure 19A A sectional view taken along line 19B-19B shows the mast assembly, the non-horizontal observation window, and the space between them;

[0085] Figure 20 It is an embodiment with a non-horizontal viewing window Figure 15 A partial front view of the platform components shown;

[0086] Figure 21 According to the embodiments Figure 20 A cross-sectional view of the platform component taken along line 21-21;

[0087] Figure 21A From Figure 21 The enlarged view obtained;

[0088] Figure 22 This is a partial front view of a platform component with a non-horizontal viewing window according to an embodiment;

[0089] Figure 23 According to the embodiments Figure 22 A cross-sectional view of the platform component taken along line 23-23;

[0090] Figure 23A From Figure 23 The enlarged view obtained;

[0091] Figure 24 This is a partial top-down view from the operator's perspective, where the platform components are located. Figure 25 The elevated position includes a magnified view seen by the operator through a portion of the observation window;

[0092] Figure 25 According to the embodiments Figure 15A side front view of a material handling vehicle, with the mast assembly in the retracted position and the operator's cabin in the raised position, showing the line of sight through a non-horizontal observation window;

[0093] Figure 26 It is in the fully raised position according to the embodiment. Figure 15 A side view of a material handling vehicle, showing the line of sight through a non-horizontal viewing window;

[0094] Figure 27 This is a perspective view of a material handling vehicle according to an embodiment, wherein the platform assembly further includes an outer support wall, an outer observation window, and a fork assembly movable relative to the outer support wall.

[0095] Figure 28 This is a view from the operator's cabin according to an embodiment. Figure 27 A partial front view of the platform components shown, including the outer support wall, the outer observation window, and the operator control components;

[0096] Figure 28A yes Figure 28 A sectional view taken along line 28A-28A shows the movable fork assembly;

[0097] Figure 28B yes Figure 28 A sectional view taken along line 28B-28B shows the movable fork assembly in an elevated upper position.

[0098] Figure 29 yes Figure 27 A partial bottom perspective view of the platform components, in which the fork assembly is in a lowered position and the outer support wall is separated from the floor;

[0099] Figure 30 This is a partial front view of a platform assembly including an external support wall, an external observation window, and an operator control component, as seen from the operator's compartment according to an embodiment.

[0100] Figure 31 The embodiments are shown as being in a partially raised position and a fully raised position. Figure 27 A side front view of a material handling vehicle, showing the line of sight through a non-horizontal observation window in the outer support wall;

[0101] Figure 32 yes Figure 27 A detailed top-down perspective view of the material handling vehicle, including the internal operator control system and the external operator control system;

[0102] Figure 33 yes Figure 32 The front view of the internal operator control system shown;

[0103] Figure 34 and 35 yes Figure 33 The rear front view of the operator control system shown;

[0104] Figure 36 yes Figure 33 The image shows a front view of an operator control assembly, with a portion of the housing removed.

[0105] Figure 37 It is used for regulation Figure 36 A perspective view of the vertical adjustment component for the vertical position of the operator control component; and

[0106] Figure 38 yes Figure 37 An exploded view of the vertical adjustment component shown. Detailed Implementation

[0107] The following text sets forth a broad description of many different embodiments of this disclosure. This description is to be interpreted as exemplary only and does not describe every possible embodiment, as it would be impractical, if not impossible, to describe every possible embodiment. It should be understood that any feature, characteristic, component, composition, ingredient, product, step, or method described herein may be removed, combined, or substituted, in whole or in part, for any other feature, characteristic, component, composition, ingredient, product, step, or method described herein. It should be understood that multiple combinations of the described and illustrated embodiments are contemplated, and particular attention to one embodiment does not preclude its inclusion in combinations of other described embodiments. Many alternative embodiments may also be implemented using current art or technology developed after the filing date of this patent, which will still fall within the scope of the claims. All publications and patents cited herein are incorporated herein by reference.

[0108] Now refer to the attached diagram, Figure 1 A material handling vehicle 10 constructed according to an embodiment is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, vehicle 10 includes a picking machine, but it could also be another type of material handling vehicle. Vehicle 10 includes a power unit 12, a platform assembly 14 having an operator's compartment 16, and a load handling assembly 18. The power unit 12 includes a power source, such as a battery unit 20. Vehicle 10 includes a plurality of wheels 22 on which vehicle 10 travels (one or more additional wheels are located below the power unit 12 but not on top of it). Figure 1 (As shown in the diagram). The load handling assembly 18 includes a mast assembly 30 coupled to the power unit 12, on which the platform assembly 14 moves vertically, and the mast assembly also includes a fork structure 32 having a pair of forks 32A, 32B. The mast assembly 30 includes one or more mast sections. The mast sections may also be referred to herein as welded parts. Figure 1The exemplary mast assembly 30 shown is a three-stage mast assembly, wherein a carriage attached to the platform assembly 14 is raised via a primary plunger / cylinder assembly connected to a third mast section until it contacts the top of the third mast section, wherein hydraulic pressure in the secondary plunger / cylinder assembly of the mast assembly 30 causes the second and third mast sections to begin rising. The first mast section is fixed to the power unit 12 and a pair of outriggers 34 for retaining the wheels 22. When the second mast section rises, the third mast section will rise twice the distance.

[0109] The operator compartment 16 includes a floor surface 40 on which the operator stands when operating the vehicle 10 from an operator's workstation 42 located within the operator compartment 16. An operator presence sensor 44, in the form of a pressure switch, is disposed in the floor surface 40, sensing the operator's feet. According to an embodiment, one or more functions of the vehicle, such as travel motion, raising / lowering the load-carrying assembly 18, etc., can be disabled unless the operator presence sensor indicates the presence of the operator in the operator compartment 16. First and second lateral restraint devices 46, 48 are disposed at opposite left LS and right RS locations within the operator compartment 16, the left LS and left RS being perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L of the vehicle 10. A Horizontal direction L D They are spaced apart from each other.

[0110] The operator workstation 42 may include one or more boxes 50 in which the operator can store items. The boxes 50 may be located anywhere within the operator workstation 42 and may be moved as needed. The operator workstation 42 also includes a horizontal L-shaped structure. D The first support structure 52 and the second support structure 54, which are spaced apart from each other, are shown in the figure. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The first support structure 52 and the second support structure 54 are separated by a recess 56 of the vehicle 10, which defines an opening region extending downward from the upper surfaces 52A, 54A of the first and second support structures 52, 54 toward the floor surface 40. In the illustrated embodiment, the opening region extends just above a box 50.

[0111] An operator control system 60 is located in the operator's workstation 42. The operator uses the operator control system 60 to drive the vehicle 10 and control one or more other vehicle functions, as will be described in more detail herein. Reference Figure 2The operator control system 60 includes a first operator control component 62 associated with a first support structure 52 and a second operator control component 64 associated with a second support structure 54. In the illustrated embodiment, the first operator control component 62 is used to control the steering of the vehicle 10 and optionally to control additional vehicle functions, while the second operator control component 64 is used to control the lifting and lowering functions of the load-carrying component and optionally to control other vehicle functions, as will be described in more detail herein.

[0112] refer to Figure 2-5 The first operator control component 62 includes a first housing 66, which is separate from the first support structure 52 but is attached to the first support structure 52 via fasteners, adhesives, etc. However, the first housing 66 can also be integrated with the first support structure 52, such as... Figure 2A As shown in the alternative embodiment, one or more control elements 68, such as buttons, switches, joysticks, etc., may be disposed on the control element region 70 of the first housing 66 for generating control signals to the vehicle electronic processor or controller to control corresponding functions of the vehicle 10, including, for example, accessories such as lights and fans, function overrides, function confirmations, etc., that is, the vehicle processor or controller can control the functions of the vehicle 10 based on the control signals from the control elements 68. The control element region 70 may be as follows: Figure 2-5 The diagram may be generally planar or non-planar, and may include any number of control elements or not include any control elements.

[0113] The first housing 66 also includes a receiving portion 72 or cavity that extends downward and inwardly into the first housing 66 from the control element region 70 along the floor surface 40 toward the operator compartment 16. The receiving portion 72 may have a hemispherical shape.

[0114] The first operator control assembly 62 also includes a steering assembly 80 for steering the vehicle 10. The steering assembly 80 includes a base structure 82 and a steering control structure 84 extending outwardly from the base structure 82. The base structure 82 includes a base plate 86 and a mounting member 88 coupled to the base plate 86, wherein the steering control structure 84 extends outwardly from the base plate 86. The base plate 86 may have a generally circular shape and is rotatably coupled to the mounting member 88 such that the base plate 86 can rotate relative to the mounting member 88. Steering of the vehicle 10 is accomplished by the operator using the steering control structure 84 to rotate the base plate 86 relative to the base 88; that is, a vehicle processor or controller may control the steering motor of the vehicle 10 based on control signals from the steering assembly 80 to set the steering angle of the vehicle 10. The base plate 86 may optionally include a plurality of notches 90 around its periphery. The operator may engage one or more notches 90 with one or more fingers to rotate the base plate 86 relative to the mounting member 88, thereby steering the vehicle 10.

[0115] Steering control structure 84 may include, for example Figure 1-6 The knob shown ( Figure 3A A steering control structure 84 in the form of a smaller knob according to an embodiment is shown; however, the steering control structure 84 can also have any suitable shape and configuration. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the steering control structure 84 includes a plurality of gripping elements 92 coupled to the outer surface of the knob body 84A. The gripping elements 92 may be adhesively fixed to the outer surface of the knob body 84A or mounted in corresponding recesses within the knob body 84A. The gripping elements 92 may be formed of a polymeric material different from the body 84A, such as a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), which enhances the grip between the operator and the knob during steering of the vehicle 10 using the steering assembly 80. The steering control structure 84 may be rotatably mounted to a base plate 86 such that the steering control structure 84 can rotate relative to the base plate 86. According to this aspect, since the steering control structure 84 rotates relative to the base plate 86 and the base plate 86 rotates relative to the mounting member 88, the operator does not need to release the steering control structure 84 while steering the vehicle 10 using the steering control structure 84.

[0116] like Figure 3-6 As shown, the mounting member 88 is received in the receiving portion 72 of the first housing 66 and may have a hemispherical shape corresponding to the hemispherical shape of the receiving portion 72. The mounting member 88 may be secured to the first housing 66 via a pair of laterally spaced pivot supports or pins 100A, 100B, see [reference needed]. Figure 6Pivot supports 100A and 100B allow the steering assembly 80 to pivotally rotate relative to the first housing 66, enabling the steering assembly 80 to move relative to the first housing 66 and to be positioned in a plurality of different locations. According to an exemplary embodiment, the steering assembly 80 can move between first and second positions and can be locked in these two positions via locking member 104, which will be described below.

[0117] When in Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 5-7 In the first position shown, the steering control structure 84 extends from the base structure 82 in a generally first orientation. In this first orientation, the steering control structure 84 is positioned relative to the first vertical plane V. P With the first angle α orientation, see Figure 7 Where the first angle α can be an acute angle. (See reference) Figure 1 Vertical plane V P The floor surface of vehicle 10 is perpendicular to the floor surface, which lies in a generally horizontal plane H. P Above. When in Figure 4 and Figure 8 In the second position shown, the steering control structure 84 extends from the base structure 82 in a generally second orientation. In this second orientation, the steering control structure 84 is relative to the generally horizontal plane H. P In the second angle β orientation, see Figure 8 The second angle α can be an acute angle. According to a non-limiting exemplary working embodiment, the first angle α can be about 0 degrees to about 40 degrees (the exemplary angle range includes zero (0) degrees), and the second angle β can be about -10 degrees to about 30 degrees (the exemplary angle range includes...). Figure 8 The zero (0) degree shown is in Figure 8 In the middle, the second angle β is parallel to the approximately horizontal plane H. P According to another non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the first angle α can be from about 10 degrees to about 30 degrees, and the second angle β can be from about -5 degrees to about 15 degrees (the exemplary angle range includes, for example,...). Figure 8 The zero (0) degree shown is in Figure 8 In the middle, the second angle β is parallel to the approximately horizontal plane H. P In the first position, the steering control structure 84 and the base plate 86 are aligned with the vertical plane V. P Compared to a plane that is closer to the approximate horizontal plane H P In the second position, the steering control structure 84 and the base plate 86 rotate relative to the mounting member 88 in a plane that is approximately horizontal. P Compared to a plane closer to the vertical V P Rotate relative to the mounting part 88 in the plane.

[0118] refer to Figure 6-8 The locking assembly 104 includes a locking release structure 110 having an actuation portion 112 actuated by an operator to unlock the locking assembly 104, allowing the steering assembly 80 to move between its multiple positions. In the illustrated embodiment, when the operator presses the actuation portion 112, a locking protrusion 114 of the locking release structure 110 retracts from a corresponding locking slot 116A or 116B formed in the mounting member 88 to a release position, wherein each locking slot 116A, 116B corresponds to a corresponding position of the steering assembly 80. In the illustrated embodiment having the first and second steering assembly positions described above, the mounting member 88 includes two locking slots 116A and 116B, one locking slot 116 corresponding to the first position of the steering assembly 80 and the other locking slot 116B corresponding to the second position of the steering assembly 80. If more steering assembly positions are required, the mounting member 88 may include additional locking slots to lock the steering assembly 80 in different positions. When the locking protrusion 114 is retracted from the locking groove 116A or 116B, i.e. when the locking assembly 104 is moved to the release position, it allows the steering assembly 80 to pivot relative to the mounting member 88, and when the locking protrusion 114 is inserted into the locking groove 116A or 116B, i.e. when the locking assembly 104 is in the locked position, it prevents the steering assembly 80 from pivoting relative to the mounting member 88. Figure 7 The image shows the locking component 104 in the locked position, with the steering component 80 in the first position. Figure 8 The locking component 104 is shown in the locked position, while the steering component 80 is in the second position.

[0119] The locking assembly 104 may also include a spring 118 that biases the locking release structure 110 toward the locked position such that the locking protrusion 114 is inserted into the locking groove 116A or 116B when the locking protrusion 114 is properly aligned with the locking groove 116A or 116B.

[0120] The locking assembly 104 may additionally include a sensor 120, such as a snap-action microswitch sensor, for sensing whether the steering assembly 80 is in one of the first or second locked positions or in the released position. The sensor 120 may function, for example, by sensing whether the locking assembly 104 is in the released or locked position or by sensing a surface on the locking release structure 110. For example, when the locking protrusion 114 of the locking release structure 110 has disengaged from one of the locking slots 116A and 116B, allowing the locking protrusion 114 to potentially engage with the mounting member 88 to the outer surface 88A, the sensor 120 will sense that the locking release structure 110 is in its released position and provide a corresponding signal to the vehicle's electronic processor or controller. If the sensor 120 detects that the steering assembly 80 is not locked in one of the first or second positions, one or more functions of the vehicle 10 (e.g., driving motion, raising / lowering the load-carrying assembly 18, etc.) may be disabled by the vehicle processor or controller.

[0121] The steering assembly 80 can move independently of the first support structure 52 and the first housing 66, which helps to keep the operator compartment 16 unobstructed and prevents accidental contact between the operator control assembly 62 and the operator or other objects, especially when the steering assembly 80 is in the second position. For example, when the steering assembly 80 moves from the first position (e.g., around the pivot supports 100A, 100B)... Figure 3 and 5 When the steering assembly 80 is pivoted to the second position (as shown in 3A, 4, and 8), only the steering assembly 80 moves. Compared to the second position, when the steering assembly 80 is in the first position, the first support structure 52 and the first housing 66 remain in the same position, preventing these structures from protruding into the operator's compartment 16. Furthermore, since the steering assembly 80 moves independently of the control element area 70 of the first housing 66, the orientation of the control element area 70 relative to the first support structure 52 is the same when the steering assembly 80 is in the first position, compared to the second position, making it easier for the operator to utilize the control element area 70 when operating the vehicle 10.

[0122] Now go to Figure 9 The second operator control assembly 64 includes a second housing 130, which is separate from the second support structure 54 but is mounted to the second support structure 54 via fasteners, adhesives, etc. (see [link to documentation]). Figure 2 However, the second housing 130 can also be integrated with the second support structure 54, such as... Figure 2AAs shown in the alternative embodiment, one or more control elements 132, such as buttons, switches, joysticks, etc., may be disposed on the control element region 134 of the second housing 130 for generating control signals to the vehicle processor or controller to control corresponding functions of the vehicle 10, such as horn, emergency stop, control of the interactive display, etc. That is, the vehicle processor or controller can control the functions of the vehicle 10 based on the control signals from the control elements 132. The control element region 134 may include any number of control elements or may not include any control elements.

[0123] The second operator control assembly 64 also includes a housing recess 140 that extends downward from the control element region 134 toward the floor surface 40 of the operator compartment 16. The housing recess 140 may have a curved shape.

[0124] The control element 142 of the second operator control assembly 64 is mounted to the second housing 130 and extends outward from the housing recess 140. In the illustrated embodiment, the control element 142 includes a base portion 144 and a switch or lever 146 extending from the base portion 144. The control element 142 generates corresponding control signals to the vehicle processor or controller to control the lifting and lowering functions of the load handling assembly 18; however, the control element 142 can also be used for other functions as needed. The control element 142 can be positioned in a plurality of positions including two end positions, and the first end position of the two end positions includes a position where the control element 142 is pushed forward until it reaches a first stop limit, and the second end position of the two end positions includes a position where the control element 142 is pulled backward until it reaches a second stop limit. The control element 142 can also be positioned in other positions between the two end positions, including a default position, wherein the control element 142 can be positioned in the default position when it is not pushed or pulled toward one of the two end positions.

[0125] The second operator control assembly 64 also includes an elongated gripping member 150 mounted to the second housing 130 and extending over the housing recess 140. The gripping member 150 is mounted to the second housing 130 at at least one gripping mounting position near the housing recess 140. In the illustrated embodiment, the gripping member 150 is fixedly mounted to the second housing 130 at first and second gripping mounting positions 152A, 152B located on opposite lateral sides of the housing recess 140. The gripping member 150 can be gripped by the operator's hand when the operator is driving the vehicle 10 and / or when the operator is operating the control element 142.

[0126] like Figure 9As shown, a gap G is defined between the surface of the control element 142 closest to the gripping member 150 and the surface of the gripping member 150 closest to the control element 142. The gap G is preferably always within the range from the minimum gap distance to the maximum reach distance. That is, regardless of whether the control element 142 is in the first end position, the second end position, the default position, or any position between these defined positions, the gap G is preferably always within this range. This range is selected such that when the control element 142 is in any position, the operator's fingers will not be pinched between the control element 142 and the gripping member 150, i.e., the gap G is greater than or equal to the minimum gap distance, but also such that when the gripping member 150 is gripped, the control element 142 is within the reach of the operator's fingers in any position, i.e., the gap G is less than or equal to the maximum reach distance. According to one non-limiting exemplary embodiment of operation, the minimum gap distance may be approximately 15 mm and the maximum reach distance may be approximately 50 mm, and according to another non-limiting exemplary embodiment of operation, the minimum gap distance may be approximately 30 mm and the maximum reach distance may be approximately 40 mm. However, these values ​​may differ from the provided exemplary values, for example, when the vehicle 10 is intended to be used by an operator wearing thick gloves, in which case these values ​​may be greater than the provided exemplary values.

[0127] According to one embodiment, one or both of the first (or original) control element 142 and / or gripping member 150 can be removed and replaced with a second (or replacement) control element and / or gripping member, while the gap G remains within the range of minimum gap distance and maximum reach distance, regardless of whether the original or replacement component is in place. The replacement control element and / or replacement gripping member may have different dimensions and / or different configurations than the original (replaced) control element 142 and / or gripping member 150. Figures 10A to 11F This explains this aspect.

[0128] exist Figure 10A and 11A In the first embodiment of -11C, the second operator control assembly 64 includes a primary control element 142 and a primary gripping member 150, also referred to herein as the first control element 142 and the first gripping member 150. Figure 11A The first control element 142 is shown in the first end position. Figure 11B The first control element 142 is shown in the second end position. Figure 11C The first control element 142 is shown in its default position. When the first control element 142 is in... Figure 11A At the first end position shown, the gap G is a first distance greater than the minimum gap distance. Figure 11A (Described as MCD). When the first control element 142 is in Figure 11BAt the second end position shown, the gap G is a second distance less than the maximum reach distance. Figure 11B (Described as MRD in the text). When the first control element 142 is in Figure 11C In the default position shown, the gap G is the third distance between the first and second distances.

[0129] exist Figure 10B and 11D In the second embodiment of -11F, the second operator control assembly 64 includes a replacement control element 142' and a replacement gripping member 150', also referred to herein as the second control element 142' and the second gripping member 150'. Each of the second control element 142' and the second gripping member 150' has at least one of a different size and / or a different construction than the first control element 142 and the first gripping member 150. Figure 11D The second control element 142' is shown in the first end position. Figure 11E The second control element 142' is shown in the second end position. Figure 11F The second control element 142' is shown in its default position. When the second control element 142' is in... Figure 11D At the first end position shown, the gap G is a first distance greater than the minimum gap distance. Figure 11D The description is MCD'). When the second control element 142' is in Figure 11E At the second end position shown, the gap G is a second distance less than the maximum reach distance. Figure 11E The description is as follows: (MRD′). When the second control element 142′ is in... Figure 11F In the default position shown, the gap G is the third distance between the first and second distances.

[0130] One of the first control element 142 or the first gripping member 150 may also be used with one of the second control element 142' or the second gripping member 150', wherein the two mounting parts are always spaced apart from each other such that the gap G is greater than or equal to the minimum gap distance and less than or equal to the maximum reach distance. Additional alternative control elements and / or gripping members (not specifically shown) having at least one of different sizes and / or constructions from the first and second control elements 142, 142' and gripping members 150, 150' may also be mounted, wherein the two mounting parts are always spaced apart from each other such that the gap G is greater than or equal to the minimum gap distance and less than or equal to the maximum reach distance. The curved shape of the housing recess 140 contributes to allowing the use of different control elements while keeping the gap G within the aforementioned range, because the curved shape at least partially defines the angle of the mounted control element relative to the gripping member. That is, positioning the control element at different locations along the curved surface of the housing recess 140 and / or using control element base portions with different sizes and / or constructions will change the angle of the control element relative to the gripping member.

[0131] The gripping member 150 (and / or alternative gripping members) may include, for example: Figure 2 , 9 Additional control element 160 is shown in 10A and 10B. Additional control element 160 can generate control signals to the vehicle processor or controller to control vehicle functions, such as the direction of travel of vehicle 10. That is, the vehicle processor or controller can control the traction motor of vehicle 10 based on the control signals from control element 160 to set the direction of travel of vehicle 10.

[0132] Now go to Figure 12A and 12B The operator control system 60 may optionally include first and second fixing structures 180, 182 to selectively allow one or both of the first and / or second operator control components 62, 64 to be positioned in a plurality of corresponding locations. The first fixing structure 180 and the second fixing structure 182 may be coupled to or integrated with corresponding first support structure 52 and second support structure 54.

[0133] The first fixing structure 180 includes a mounting plate 184, which is connected to or integrated with the first support structure 52. The mounting plate 184 may be an elongated plate extending vertically from the first support structure 52 to a first housing 66 of the first operator control assembly 62. (Reference) Figure 13A and Figure 13BThe first fixing structure 180 also includes a plurality of fasteners 186, such as bolts, which selectively extend through a first opening 188A or a second opening 188B provided in the mounting plate 184 and extend into a corresponding opening 190 formed in the back side of the first housing 66 to attach the first housing 66 to the first support structure 52. By inserting the fasteners 186 through the first opening 188A in the mounting plate 184 into the openings 190 in the first housing 66, the first fixing structure 180 can support the first operator control assembly 62 in a first orientation relative to the first support structure 52, such as... Figure 12B and 13B As shown, or by inserting a fastener 186 through a second opening 188B in the mounting plate 184 into an opening 190 in the first housing 66, the first fixing structure 180 can support the first operator control assembly 62 in a second orientation relative to the first support structure 52, which differs from the first orientation, such as... Figure 12A and 13A As shown. In the first orientation, the first operator control component 62 is positioned relative to the first support structure 52 at a first angular orientation, while in the second orientation, the first operator control component 62 is positioned relative to the first support structure 52 at a second angular orientation different from the first angular orientation. When moving from the first angular orientation to the second angular orientation, the first operator control component 62 rotates about the first axis A1 (see...). Figure 7 Note that the first axis A1 is in Figures 12A-13B (As shown in the view extending into the page), this first axis is approximately parallel to the longitudinal axis L of the vehicle 10. A According to one non-limiting exemplary embodiment, when moving from a first angular orientation to a second angular orientation, the first operator control component 62 can move relative to the vertical direction by an angle of approximately -10 degrees to approximately 10 degrees. According to another non-limiting exemplary embodiment, when moving from the first angular orientation to the second angular orientation, the first operator control component 62 can move relative to the vertical direction by an angle of approximately -5 degrees to approximately 5 degrees.

[0134] like Figure 2 As shown, the upper surface 52A of the first support structure 52 according to this embodiment can be a curved upper surface 52A, which corresponds to the curved lower surface 66A of the first housing 66. The corresponding curved surfaces 52A and 66A allow the first operator control component 62 to move between the first and second orientations while maintaining a tight fit between the first support structure 52 and the first housing 66.

[0135] Return to reference Figure 12A and 12BThe second fixing structure 182 includes a mounting plate 204, which is connected to or integrated with the second support structure 54. The mounting plate 204 may be an elongated plate extending vertically from the second support structure 54 to the second housing 130 of the second operator control assembly 64. (Reference) Figure 13C and 13D The second fixing structure 182 also includes a plurality of fasteners 206, such as bolts, which selectively extend through a first opening 208A or a second opening 208B provided in the mounting plate 204 and extend into a corresponding opening 210 formed in the back side of the second housing 130 to attach the second housing 130 to the second support structure 54. By inserting the fasteners 206 through the first opening 208A in the mounting plate 204 into the openings 210 in the second housing 130, the second fixing structure 182 can support the second operator control assembly 64 in a first orientation relative to the second support structure 54, such as... Figure 12B and 13D As shown, or by inserting the fastener 206 through the second opening 208B in the mounting plate 204 into the opening 210 in the second housing 130, the second fixing structure 182 can support the second operator control assembly 64 relative to the second support structure 54 in a second orientation, which differs from the first orientation, such as... Figure 12A and 13C As shown. In the first orientation, the second operator control component 64 is positioned relative to the second support structure 54 at a first angular orientation, while in the second orientation, the second operator control component 64 is positioned relative to the second support structure 54 at a second angular orientation different from the first angular orientation. When moving from the first angular orientation to the second angular orientation, the second operator control component 64 rotates about the second axis A2 (see...). Figure 9 Note that the second axis A2 is in Figure 12A , 12B (as shown in views 13C and 13D, extending into the page), this second axis is approximately parallel to the longitudinal axis L of vehicle 10. A According to one non-limiting exemplary embodiment, when moving from a first angular orientation to a second angular orientation, the second operator control component 64 can move relative to the vertical direction by an angle of approximately -10 degrees to approximately 10 degrees. According to another non-limiting exemplary embodiment, when moving from the first angular orientation to the second angular orientation, the first operator control component 62 can move relative to the vertical direction by an angle of approximately -5 degrees to approximately 5 degrees.

[0136] The first support structure 52 and the second support structure 54 can be positioned close to each other in narrow-width vehicles (e.g., vehicles with a width equal to or less than 40 inches) and positioned far apart from each other in wide-width vehicles (e.g., vehicles with a width equal to or greater than 42 inches). To provide preferred ergonomic hand positioning for narrower-width vehicles, the first operator control component 62 can be positioned at a first angular orientation (e.g., ...). Figure 12B As shown), in order to provide a preferred ergonomic hand positioning for vehicles with wider widths, the first operator control component 62 can be positioned at a second angle (as shown). Figure 12A (As shown).

[0137] like Figure 2 As shown, the upper surface 54A of the second support structure 54 according to this embodiment can be a curved upper surface 54A, which corresponds to the curved lower surface 130A of the second housing 130. The corresponding curved surfaces 54A and 130A allow the second operator control assembly 64 to move between the first and second orientations while maintaining a tight fit between the second support structure 54 and the second housing 130.

[0138] Figure 14 A second operator control component 64 according to an additional embodiment is shown. Figure 14 The second operator control component 64 includes a second housing 130 and one or more control elements 132, such as buttons, switches, joysticks, etc., disposed on the control element area 134 of the second housing 130. These elements are used to generate control signals to the vehicle processor or controller to control corresponding functions of the vehicle 10, such as emergency stop, control of the interactive display, etc. That is, the vehicle processor or controller can control vehicle functions based on control signals from the control elements 132. The control element area 134 may include any number of control elements or may not include any control elements.

[0139] The operator control assembly 64 also includes a housing recess 140 that extends downward from the control element region 134 along the floor surface 40 toward the operator compartment 16. The housing recess 140 may have a curved shape. Figure 14 As shown, in this embodiment, a chamfered surface 141 extends around the outer periphery of the housing recess 140 between the housing recess 140 and the control element region 134. The chamfered surface 141 allows for increased operator space to reach the control element 142, which is mounted to the second housing 130 and extends outwardly from the housing recess 140. (This is in contrast to the above description regarding...) Figure 9 Compared to the described control element 142, control element 142 may have an enlarged end portion 142A remote from the base portion 144, but this control element may also be the same as that described above for... Figure 9The control element 142 described is the same as or similar to that described here, and will not be described in detail here.

[0140] According to this embodiment, the elongated gripping member 150 can be used with the above-mentioned... Figure 9 The described gripping component 150 is the same as or similar to that described, but Figure 14 The gripping member 150 may include additional control elements 151 located thereon, such as a horn button.

[0141] Now for reference Figure 15-31 , Figure 15 A material handling vehicle 310 constructed according to an embodiment is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, vehicle 310 includes a picking machine, but it could also be another type of material handling vehicle. Vehicle 310 includes a power unit 312, a platform assembly 314 having an operator compartment 316, and a load handling assembly 318. Power unit 312 includes a power source, such as a battery unit 320. Vehicle 310 includes a plurality of wheels 322 on which vehicle 310 travels (one or more additional wheels are located below power unit 312 but not on top of it). Figure 15 (As shown in the diagram). The load handling assembly 318 includes a mast assembly 330 coupled to the power unit 312, on which the platform assembly 314 moves vertically. The fork structure 332 includes a pair of forks 332A, 332B, which are coupled to the platform assembly 314 or the mast assembly 330 to move together with the platform assembly 314. The mast assembly 330 includes one or more mast sections. The mast sections may also be referred to herein as mast weldments. Figure 15 The exemplary mast assembly 330 shown is a three-stage mast assembly, including first, second, and third mast sections or welded parts 330A-330C, see also Figure 19A Platform component 314 is connected via rollers ( Figure 17 The carriage 314B (showing only the support on which the rollers are mounted) is attached to the third mast section or weldment 330C and moves relative to the third mast section or weldment. See also Figure 17The carriage 314B forms part of the platform assembly 314 and is lifted by a primary lifting plunger / cylinder assembly 326 mounted to the third section. The second and third mast sections or weldments 330B and 330C move relative to the first stationary mast section or weldment 330A. One or more hydraulic secondary lifting plunger / cylinder assemblies are fixed at their cylinder bases to the power unit 312 or the first mast section 330A, and the plungers are fixed to the second mast section 330B. A chain is coupled at its first end to the cylinder of each secondary lifting plunger / cylinder assembly or to the first mast section, extends on a corresponding pulley on the second mast section 330B, and is fixed at its second end to the third mast section 330C. As each plunger extends, it moves the second mast section 330B relative to the first mast section 330A, and also moves the third mast section 330C relative to the first mast section 330A and the second mast section 330B via a chain. When the second mast section 330B rises, the third mast section 330C rises twice the distance. The mast assembly 300 is in... Figure 15 and Figure 25 The image shows the object in its fully retracted original position. Figure 26 The platform component 314 is shown in its fully extended state. Figure 15 The platform is positioned in its fully retracted state. When the second and third mast sections 330B and 330C are fully retracted and the platform assembly 314 is fully retracted, the upper portions 331A-331C of each of the first, second, and third mast sections 330A-330C extend above the upper portion 314A of the platform assembly 314, see [reference]. Figure 15 Furthermore, when the second and third mast sections 330B and 330C are fully retracted and the platform assembly 314 is fully retracted, the upper portions 331A-331C of each of the first, second, and third mast sections 330A-330C extend above the upper portion 362A of the first operator control assembly 362 and / or the upper portion 364A of the second operator control assembly 364, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 15 and 20 .

[0142] The operator compartment 316 includes a floor surface 340 on which the operator stands when operating the vehicle 310 from the operator's workstation 342 located in the operator compartment 316. An operator presence sensor 344, in the form of a pressure switch, is provided in the floor surface 340 to sense the operator's feet. The floor surface 340 may also be referred to herein as the floor. According to an embodiment, one or more functions of the vehicle, such as travel motion, raising / lowering the load-carrying assembly 318, etc., can be disabled unless the operator presence sensor indicates that the operator is present in the operator compartment 316. First and second side restraint devices 346, 348 are provided at opposite left LS' and right RS' locations in the operator compartment 316, the left LS' and left RS' being perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L of the vehicle 310. A 'Horizontal direction L D The upper and lower sections are spaced apart from each other. Support wall 324 is connected to the floor and positioned adjacent to and spaced apart from mast assembly 330 to further define the operator compartment 316 of platform assembly 314. Support wall 324 may also be referred to herein as “inner support wall”.

[0143] The operator workstation 342 may include one or more boxes 350 in which the operator can store items. The boxes 350 may be located anywhere within the operator workstation 342 and may be moved as needed. The operator workstation 342 may also include a horizontal L-shaped section. D See the first support structure 352 and the second support structure 354, which are spaced apart from each other. Figure 15 The first support structure 352 and the second support structure 354 are separated by a recess 356 of the vehicle 310, which defines an opening area between the first support structure and the second support structures 352, 354. In the illustrated embodiment, the opening area extends just above a box 350; however, if no box 350 is provided below the opening area, the opening area may extend further toward the floor surface 340.

[0144] The operator control system 360 is located in the operator's workstation 342. The operator uses the operator control system 360 to drive the vehicle 310 and control one or more other vehicle functions. (Reference) Figure 15The operator control system 360 includes a first operator control component 362 associated with a first support structure 352 and a second operator control component 364 associated with a second support structure 354. In the illustrated embodiment, the first operator control component 362 controls the steering of the vehicle 310 and optionally controls additional vehicle functions, while the second operator control component 364 controls the lifting and lowering functions of the load-carrying assembly, direction and speed control, and other optional vehicle functions. As further shown in the embodiment, the first operator control component 362 and the second operator control component 364 are coupled to the support wall 324 and positioned to allow operation by an operator located within the operator compartment 316.

[0145] A non-horizontal observation window 402, including an upper end 402A and a lower end 402B, is provided in the support wall 324. This window may also be referred to as the "middle window" or the "first observation window." The lower end 402B extends or is positioned below the lower portion 362B of the first operator control component 362 and / or below the lower portion 364B of the second operator control component 364, to maximize the operator's downward observation. See [reference needed]. Figure 15 and 20 In the illustrated embodiment, the non-horizontal viewing window 402 may be located between the first operator control component 362 and the second operator control component 364. The upper end 402A of the viewing window may be located below, flush with, or extend above the upper portion 362A of the first operator control component 362 and / or the upper portion 364A of the second operator control component 364.

[0146] The term "non-horizontal" means that the observation window 402 has a vertical dimension larger than its horizontal dimension. In some embodiments, the vertical dimension H of the non-horizontal observation window 402 is... V Between 18 inches and 22 inches, see Figure 20 In the illustrated embodiment, the viewing window 402 is presented in a generally rectangular or conical trapezoidal shape, and its corners, sides, and edges can vary as long as the shape of the viewing window 402 is defined to maximize downward visibility. Therefore, the sides and corners of the window 402 can be linear or curved to achieve this purpose. It is also conceivable that the viewing window 402 can include any other shape, such as a circle, ellipse, square, triangle, etc.

[0147] exist Figure 15-31 In the embodiment shown, the width W of the non-horizontal viewing window 402 V It can be equal to the total width W of the supporting wall 324. SW 30% to 50%, see Figure 20 The non-horizontal observation window 402 is in Figure 15 and Figure 20The center of the support wall 324 is shown in the diagram, approximately between the left side LS' and the right side RS' of the operator compartment 316, but it can be positioned horizontally at any location on the support wall 324 as needed to maximize the operator's downward view between the first operator control assembly 362 and the second operator control assembly 364 and between the first support structure 352 and the second support structure 354.

[0148] exist Figure 20 In embodiments, the non-horizontal viewing window 402 may include a transparent pane 406 made of a suitable material, such as a transparent polymer, glass, mesh-reinforced glass, or such as Figure 22 The embodiment shows a perspective screen 408.

[0149] The support wall 324 and the non-horizontal observation window 402 are oriented approximately vertically within the platform assembly 314. The non-horizontal observation window 402 is as follows: Figure 21 and 23 As shown, located in the first vertical plane P V In the middle. By roughly aligning with the vertical orientation, it can be understood that when the vehicle is on a horizontal surface, "vertical" is relative to the position H. P The vehicle's floor surface is approximately 340 degrees on a horizontal plane.

[0150] Although not shown in the figures, it is understood that in some embodiments, the adjacent portions of the non-horizontal observation window 402 and the support wall 324 may also be angled away from the mast assembly 330 at the lower end 402B of the observation window and slightly protrude into the recess 356 of the operator's compartment 316 to enhance ease of observation through the non-horizontal observation window 402, especially for components including... Figure 22 In the embodiment of the perspective screen 408 shown, below the lower end 402B of the non-horizontal viewing window 402, the support wall 324 can face the first vertical plane P. V Extending backward, the recessed portion 356 below the non-horizontal viewing window 402 remains open for operator use.

[0151] Figure 19A and 19B The relationship between the non-horizontal observation window 402, the support wall 324, and the mast assembly 330 is explained. The inner edge 430 of the third mast section or mast weld 330C, that is, the edge of the mast assembly 330 closest to the observation window 402, defines the vertical plane P of the inner mast assembly. M See Figure 19A and 19B The outer surface 404 of the non-horizontal observation window 402 is located at a distance P from the vertical plane of the inner mast assembly. M Small distance D V At that location, the distance is D VIt can be between 0.5 inches and 2 inches.

[0152] refer to Figure 25 and 26 The operator of material handling vehicle 310 can follow the line of sight F A and F B Viewing is performed through a non-horizontal observation window 402 without bending, allowing the operator to observe the longitudinal axis L of the vehicle 310. A The area in front of the left and right sides of the ' and the area in front along this longitudinal axis. Line of sight F B A line of sight FA extends from the operator's eye through the lower end 402B of the non-horizontal observation window 402, and from the operator's eye through the upper end 402A of the non-horizontal observation window 402. Note that line of sight F... A and F B The position can be changed based on the operator's height and location. The line-of-sight F depends on the height of platform component 314. A and F B The observation area can be steeper and narrower, or less steeper and wider. At some heights, the observation area can advantageously include the power unit 312, such as the left corner 312A and right corner 312B of the power unit 312, as... Figure 24 This is shown from the operator's perspective. This allows the operator to increase / enhance their view of the power unit 312 and the surrounding area when the platform assembly 314 is raised. Figure 24 The view in the platform component 314 can be in Figure 25 The elevated position provides the operator's view when standing without tilting, but if the operator tilts forward to get closer to the observation window 402, the platform component 314 can also be in a raised position. Figure 26 The operator's viewpoint when the position is raised.

[0153] like Figure 15 As shown in the embodiment, the material handling vehicle 310 may include a second observation window 422 located above the non-horizontal observation window 402. (See reference...) Figure 20-23 The inner surface 422A of the second observation window 422 is located in the second approximately vertical plane P. O In this context, the plane represents the inner surface of the second observation window 422 closest to the operator. The inner surface 1402A of the first observation window 402 is located on the first vertical plane P. V In the middle. The second vertical plane P O It can be with the first vertical plane P V Spacing apart, wherein the part located in the first vertical plane P V The inner surface 1402A represents the inner surface of the first non-horizontal observation window 402 closest to the operator. In the illustrated embodiment, the first vertical plane P VCompared to the second vertical plane P O Closer to mast assembly 330. Figure 20-23 The first vertical plane P is shown. V Second vertical plane P O The space or distance between them D O The second viewing window 422 may vary depending on whether it includes a second transparent pane 426 or a second perspective screen 428 and its configuration. Embodiments include a space D ranging from 0.1 inches to 3 inches (transparent pane) and from 0.25 inches to 2.5 inches (screen). O It can also be imagined that the first vertical plane P V Second vertical plane P O The same plane may be included. The second observation window 422 may include a transparent pane 426 of suitable material, see [link / reference]. Figure 20 and 21 For example, transparent polymers, glass, mesh-reinforced glass, or such as Figure 22 and 23 The embodiment shows a perspective screen 428. It is also conceivable that the first viewing window 402 may include a polymer (e.g., plexiglass) pane, and the second viewing window 422 may include a glass pane.

[0154] Refer again Figure 25 and Figure 26 The operator of the material handling vehicle 310 can see along the line of sight F through the lower part of the second observation window 422. C Look down and forward to the horizon and above, and look at the longitudinal axis L of vehicle 310. A Looking to the left, right, and forward along this longitudinal axis. For example... Figure 25 and 26 As shown, from the line of sight F mentioned above A and F B The same operator position along line of sight F C The observed area, along the longitudinal axis L A Starting from the material handling vehicle 310, the area extends further outward than the area observed through the non-horizontal observation window 402.

[0155] like Figure 15 As shown, the upper section 314A of platform assembly 314 also includes an overhead protection assembly 500 located above the operator's compartment 316. The overhead protection assembly 500 includes a base frame 502, which includes first and second side bar members 502A, 502B, a front bar member 502C, and a rear bar member 502D. See also... Figure 16 and 17The rod members 502A, 502B, 502C, and 502D can be formed individually and connected together, for example, by welding or bolting, or one or more rod members 502A, 502B, 502C, and 502D can be formed together as a single structure. According to one exemplary embodiment, the first, second, and front rod members 502A, 502B, and 502C are integrally formed as a single structure connected to the rear rod member 502D. One or more transverse members (not shown) can span between the first and second side rod members 502A, 502B or the front rod member 502C and the rear rod member 502D to divide the central opening 502E defined by the base frame 502 into smaller segments. According to another embodiment, a transparent window (not shown) can be used instead of the transverse member to allow the operator in the operator compartment 316 to look up through the central opening 502E.

[0156] The overhead protection assembly 500 may further include a first extension member 504A and a second extension member 504B extending laterally from the respective first and second side bar members 502A, 502B. The extension members 504A, 504B increase the lateral width L of the overhead protection assembly 500. WG See Figure 16 The front and rear corner portions 506A1, 506A2, 506B1, 506B2 of the first and second extension members 504A, 504B provide angled surfaces for the overhead guard assembly 500 at its corners. Therefore, when the vehicle 310 travels in the first direction of the power unit or the first direction of the fork, the contact between the first and second extension members 504A, 504B and objects such as shelves, pallets, etc., will not be at a 90-degree angle. This reduces or prevents damage to the overhead guard assembly 500 and / or other parts of the platform assembly 314, i.e., because objects may deviate from the angled surfaces defined by the front or rear corner portions 506A1, 506A2, 506B1, 506B2, instead of contacting non-angled surfaces at a 90-degree angle.

[0157] Figures 17A-17C First and second extension members 504A, 504B with different lateral widths are shown according to an additional embodiment. According to one aspect, the first and second extension members 504A, 504B selected for use on a particular vehicle 310 may be based on the floor surface 340 of the operator's compartment 316 (see [reference]). Figure 15 ) lateral width L WF To select, for example, the lateral width L of the overhead protection assembly 500 including the first extension member 504A and the second extension member 504B. WG It can be roughly equal to the horizontal width L of 340 on the floor surface. WFAccording to another embodiment, the lateral width L of the overhead protection assembly 500, including the first and second extension members 504A and 504B, is... WG The horizontal width L can be greater than 340mm from the floor surface. WF . Figures 17A-17C The first extension member 504A and the second extension member 504B shown also have angled front and rear corner portions 506A1, 506A2, 506B1, and 506B2. Figures 17A-17B The first and second extension members 504A and 504B shown additionally include a transverse member 508 that separates the openings defined in the inner portions of the first and second extension members 504A and 504B into smaller segments.

[0158] Now for reference Figure 27-30 Other embodiments of the material handling vehicle 510 are shown. For example... Figure 27 As shown, vehicle 510 may include a power unit 512, a platform assembly 514, and a load-carrying assembly 518 with a mast assembly 530, which may be substantially similar to vehicles 10 and 310 described herein. Operator compartment 516 may be at least partially defined by an inner support wall 524, a floor 540, and an outer support wall 640, the inner support wall including an inner observation window 402, the floor defining a generally horizontal floor surface of vehicle 510, wherein the outer support wall 640 is connected to the floor 540 and opposite the inner support wall 524. First and second lateral restraint devices 546, 548 are provided on both sides of vehicle 510. Figure 27 As shown, a first operator control system 560 (also referred to herein as an internal operator control system) is coupled to the inner support wall 524 and may include a first internal operator control component 562 and a second internal operator control component 564. Figure 28 and Figure 30 As shown, a second operator control system 660 (also referred to herein as an external operator control system) is coupled to the outer support wall 640 and may include a first external operator control assembly 662 and a second external operator control assembly 664. The first and second operator control systems 560 and 660 are positioned to allow an operator located within the operator compartment 516 of the vehicle 510 to operate, as described in more detail herein.

[0159] exist Figure 27-30 In this embodiment, at least one external observation window 442 or 444 is located within the external support wall 640. The first external observation window 442 and the second external observation window 444 are located below the operator control components 662, 664 of the external operator control system 660 and are laterally spaced apart by a distance D. P See Figure 28The first external observation window 442 has an upper end 442A and a lower end 442B, and the second external observation window 444 has an upper end 444A and a lower end 444B. Each of the first external observation window 442 and the second external observation window 444 may include a transparent pane 446 of a suitable material, such as a transparent polymer, glass, or mesh-reinforced glass. Figure 28 As shown, or through screen 448, as... Figure 30 As shown.

[0160] like Figure 27 , 28A As shown in Figure 28B, the fork carriage assembly 470 is coupled to the outer support wall 640 and includes first and second forks 470A and 470B, and a movable fork carriage 471. Forks 470A and 470B are coupled to the movable fork carriage for movement with the movable fork carriage 471. A plunger / cylinder assembly 474 is used to move the fork carriage 471 and forks 470A and 470B vertically relative to the outer support wall 640. The fork carriage 471 includes rollers 472 that move within a track 642 forming part of the outer support wall 640. See Figure 28B. Figure 28A The cylinder 474A of the plunger / cylinder assembly 474 is fixed to the base member 644 of the outer support wall 640, see [reference]. Figure 28 and 29 The plunger 474B of the plunger / cylinder assembly 474 can be fixed to the fork assembly 470 such that movement of the plunger 474B affects movement of the fork assembly 470. Alternatively, a chain (not shown) can be fixed at one end to the cylinder 474A and at the second end to the fork assembly 470. A roller can be fixed to one end of the plunger 474B, which engages with the chain to achieve lifting of the fork assembly 470. When the fork assembly 470 is raised to the upper position, see [reference needed]. Figure 28B Forks 470A and 470B are positioned such that the operator can look down at the bottom of the forks through the first and second external observation windows 442 and 444.

[0161] refer to Figure 31 The operator of material handling vehicle 510 can follow the line of sight R A and R B Viewing is possible through external observation windows 442 and 444 without bending, allowing the operator to observe along the longitudinal axis L of vehicle 510. A Observe the area to the left, right, and rear, also known as the "fork-facing area." Line of sight R B The line of sight extends from the operator's eye through the lower ends 442B and 444B of observation windows 442 and 444, respectively; and the line of sight R... A The line of sight extends from the operator's eye through the upper ends of observation windows 442A and 444A. Note the line of sight R. A and R BThe position can be changed based on the operator's height and location. The line-of-sight R is determined by the height of platform component 514. A and R B The observation area between them can be steeper and narrower, or less steeper and wider, such as... Figure 31 As shown from the operator's perspective.

[0162] refer to Figure 32-38 This will be described in more detail. Figure 27-31 The internal and external operator control systems 560, 660 of the material handling vehicle 510 (removal of side restraint devices 546, 548 for further details). During operation Figure 32 When the vehicle 510 is shown, the operator stands on the floor 540 of the operator compartment 516 in one of the first operator position 542 (also referred to herein as the internal operator position) or the second operator position 543 (also referred to herein as the external operator position). An operator presence sensor 544 (e.g., a pressure switch) is located in the floor 540 and senses the operator's feet. As described herein, one or more functions of the vehicle can be disabled unless the operator presence sensor 544 indicates the presence of the operator in the operator compartment 516.

[0163] Continue to refer to Figure 32 The internal operator's workstation 542 may be substantially similar to the operator's workstations 42 and 342 described herein, and may include a first support structure 552 and a second support structure 554. The first support structure 552 and the second support structure 554 may be located perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L of the vehicle 510. A The horizontal direction L D The first support structure 552 and the second support structure 554 are spaced apart from each other. The first support structure 552 and the second support structure 554 are separated by a recess 556 of the vehicle 510, which defines an opening area extending downward from the upper surface (not marked) of the first support structure and the second support structure 552, 554 toward the floor 540.

[0164] The internal operator control system 560 includes first and second operator control components 562 and 564, which are disposed at the internal operator workstation 542 and coupled to the internal support wall 524 to allow operation by the operator located at the internal operator workstation 542, for example, allowing operation by an operator facing the internal support wall 524. The first and second operator control components 562 and 564 are used to drive the vehicle 510 and control one or more other vehicle functions, as described in detail herein. In the illustrated embodiment, the first operator control component 562 is used to control the steering of the vehicle 510 and optionally control additional vehicle functions, while the second operator control component 564 is used to control the direction of travel of the vehicle 510, the lifting and lowering functions of the load-carrying assembly, and optionally to control other vehicle functions, as described in more detail above with respect to the first and second operator control components 562 and 564.

[0165] refer to Figure 33 and 36 As described herein, the first operator control assembly 562 may be substantially similar to the first operator control assembly 62. The first operator control assembly 562 is associated with the first support structure 552 and includes a first housing 566 that is separable from the first support structure 552 but is attached to the first support structure by fasteners, adhesives, etc. In other examples, the first housing 566 may be integral with a portion of the first support structure 552 (see [link to documentation]). Figure 2A The first operator control assembly 562 also includes a steering assembly 580. As described in detail herein with respect to the first operator control assembly 62 and the steering assembly 80, the steering assembly 580 may be in a first position (e.g. Figure 33 (as shown) and the second position (as shown) Figure 36 It can move between (as shown) and can be locked in both positions via a locking component (not marked).

[0166] refer to Figure 33 As described herein, the second operator control assembly 564 may be substantially similar to the second operator control assembly 64. The second operator control assembly 564 is associated with the second support structure 554 and includes a second housing 582 that is separable from the second support structure 554 but is attached to the second support structure by fasteners, adhesives, etc. In other examples, the second housing 582 may be integral with the second support structure 554 (see [link to documentation]). Figure 2A The second operator control assembly 564 includes a housing recess 646 that extends downward toward the floor 540 of the operator compartment 516 (see [reference]). Figure 32The control element 648 is mounted to the second housing 582 and extends outwardly from the housing recess 646; and the elongated gripping member 650 is mounted to the second housing 582 and extends over the housing recess 646. The control element 648 and the elongated gripping member 650 may be substantially similar to the control element 142 and the elongated gripping member 150 of the second operator control assembly 64, and one or both of the control element 648 and the elongated gripping member 650 may be removed and replaced with replacement control elements and / or replacement gripping members (not shown) having different dimensions and / or different constructions than the original (replaced) control element 648 and / or elongated gripping member 650. (See also...) Figure 10A-11F ).

[0167] Similar to the first and second operator control components 62, 64, the first and second operator control components 562, 564 may be optionally mounted to the first and second support structures 552, 554 to allow the first and / or second operator control components 562 and 564 to be positioned relative to the first and second support structures 552, 554 in multiple corresponding locations. Reference Figure 34 The first and second operator control components 562, 564 may include corresponding first and second mounting structures 680, 682, such as mounting plates 684, 704, which may be substantially similar to mounting plates 184, 204 associated with the first and second operator control components 62, 64, respectively. As described herein, mounting plates 684, 704 may support the first and second operator control components 562, 564 at corresponding first and second angular orientations relative to the first and second support structures 552, 554 (see [link to documentation]). Figures 12A-13D As also described herein, the first support structure 552 and the second support structure 554 can be positioned close to each other in narrow-width vehicles and far apart from each other in wide-width vehicles. The angular orientation of one or both of the first and second operator control components 562, 564 can be selected to provide preferred ergonomic hand positioning for either narrower-width or wider-width vehicles.

[0168] Alternatively or additionally, the first and second operator control components 562, 564 are positioned relative to the floor 540 (e.g., substantially parallel to) Figure 1 The vertical plane V shown P The vertical position (in the direction of) can be adjusted to achieve ergonomic positioning for operators of different sizes (e.g., height, arm length, etc.) and adapt to operator preferences. First, refer to... Figure 33The first support structure 552 may include a fixed housing portion 552A and a movable housing portion 552B, the movable housing portion being movable relative to the fixed housing portion 552A. The second support structure 554 may similarly include a fixed housing portion 554A and a movable housing portion 554B movable relative to the fixed housing portion 554A. As described in more detail herein, when the vertical positions of the first and second operator control components 562, 564 are adjusted, the movable housing portions 552B, 554B can be positioned to extend and retract on the corresponding fixed housing portions 552A, 554A.

[0169] Figure 33 The first operator control component 562 and the movable housing portion 552B are indicated by solid lines in the lowered position, while the outlines of the first operator control component 562 and the movable housing portion 552B in the raised position are indicated by dashed lines. The second operator control component 564 and the movable housing portion 554B are indicated by solid lines in the raised position, while the outlines of the second operator control component 564 and the movable housing portion 554B in the lowered position are indicated by dashed lines. As described in more detail herein, the first operator control component 562 can be fixedly coupled to the movable housing portion 552B such that the first operator control component 562 and the movable housing portion 552B move together, and the second operator control component 564 can similarly be fixedly coupled to the movable housing portion 554B such that the second operator control component 564 and the movable housing portion 554B move together. Both the first and second operator control components 562 and 564 can move continuously between their respective raised and lowered positions to allow them to be arranged in a desired vertical position. When moving between the lowered and raised positions, the first operator control assembly 562 and the movable housing portion 552B can move a distance D1. Similarly, when moving between the lowered and raised positions, the second operator control assembly 564 and the movable housing portion 554B can move a distance D2. In some examples, distances D1 and D2 can be between approximately 0.1 and approximately 4 inches.

[0170] refer to Figures 36-38 This illustrates a first vertical adjustment assembly 800 for selectively supporting a first operator control assembly 562 in multiple vertical positions. The first vertical adjustment assembly 800 is coupled to the first operator control assembly 562 to provide the first operator control assembly 562 with respect to the floor 540 in the vertical direction indicated by arrow A (see [reference]). Figure 32The first vertical adjustment assembly 800 may include a first mounting plate 802 that securely connects the first vertical adjustment assembly 800 to the inner support wall 524. For example, the first mounting plate 802 may include a plurality of openings 804 and a plurality of fasteners 806, such as bolts, extending through the openings 804 and received in corresponding openings (not shown) formed in the inner support wall 524 to attach the first mounting plate 802 to the inner support wall 524. In other examples, the first mounting plate 802 may be welded or otherwise attached to the inner support wall 524.

[0171] The first vertical adjustment assembly 800 may also include a track member 808 coupled to the first mounting plate 802. For example, a plurality of fasteners 812, such as bolts, may extend through a plurality of openings 814 formed in the first mounting plate 802 and may be received in corresponding openings 810 formed in the track member 808 to attach the track member 808 to the first mounting plate 802. In other examples, the track member 808 may be welded or otherwise attached to the first mounting plate 802.

[0172] Continue to refer to Figures 36-38 The mounting structure 680 of the first operator control component 562, namely the mounting plate 684, can be coupled to the first mounting plate 802 and the track member 808 via the carriage assembly 816. For example, the mounting plate 684 may include a plurality of openings 820 through which a plurality of fasteners 818 may extend and be received in corresponding openings 822 formed in the carriage assembly 816 to couple the mounting plate 684 to the carriage assembly 816. The carriage assembly 816 can be movably coupled to the track member 808 via a plurality of linear support blocks 824. The linear support blocks 824 can be coupled to the carriage assembly 816 via a plurality of fasteners 826 extending through a plurality of openings 828 formed in the carriage assembly 816 and received in corresponding openings 830 formed in the linear support blocks 824. As described in more detail herein, the linear support blocks 824 slide vertically along the track member 808 to achieve vertical movement of the carriage assembly 816.

[0173] In the illustrated embodiment, track member 808 includes first and second tracks 808A and 808B, and carriage assembly 816 includes four linear support blocks 824. A first pair of linear support blocks 824 engages the first track 808A, and a second pair of linear support blocks 824 engages the second track 808B. In other examples (not shown), track member 808 may include a single track or three or more tracks, and the number of linear support blocks 824 may be varied as needed to achieve a stable connection between carriage assembly 816 and track member 808. Cables, wires, etc. (not shown) extending between first operator control assembly 562 and vehicle electronic processor or controller provide control signals to the electronic processor / controller to control corresponding functions of vehicle 510. Carriage assembly 816 may optionally include one or more cable guides 878 that secure the cables and prevent them from interfering with the vertical movement of first operator control assembly 562.

[0174] The first mounting plate 802 can be connected to the fixed housing portion 552A of the first support structure 552. For example, as Figures 36-38 As shown, the first mounting plate 802 may include one or more extensions 864, in which openings 866 are formed. A fastener 868 extends through a spacer 870 and is received in the opening 866. The spacer 870 surrounds the fastener 868 and, when the fastener 868 is received in the opening 866, the spacer 870 may extend outward from an inner surface (not marked) of the first mounting plate 802, i.e., from the portion of the first mounting plate 802 facing the operator compartment 516. Reference Figure 34 The outer surface (unmarked) of the first mounting plate 802 (i.e., the portion of the first mounting plate 802 facing away from the operator compartment 516) is visible. The fixed housing portion 552A may include, for example, a bracket (unmarked) that engages the first mounting plate 802 (e.g., a spacer 870 extending outward from the inner surface) to secure the fixed housing portion 552A to the first mounting plate 802.

[0175] The carriage assembly 816 can be similarly connected to the movable housing portion 552B of the first support structure 552. For example, as Figures 36-38 As shown, carriage assembly 816 may include one or more threaded holes (not visible) formed in the inner surface and / or one or more sides (not marked) for receiving fasteners 872. Figure 36Only one fastener 872 is visible in the image. Each fastener 872 includes corresponding spacers 874, 876 surrounding the fastener 872, which may extend outward from the inner surface and / or side surface of the carriage assembly 816 when the fastener 872 is received in a threaded hole. The movable housing portion 552B may include a bracket (not labeled) that engages with the carriage assembly 816 (e.g., spacers 874, 876 extending outward from the inner surface and / or one or more side surfaces) to secure the movable housing portion 552B to the carriage assembly 816 (the spacers 874 extending outward from the side surface of the carriage assembly 816 may be...). Figure 34 (See in the middle).

[0176] like Figure 37 and 38 As shown, the first vertical adjustment assembly 800 also includes a locking gas spring 832 that controls the vertical position and movement of the carriage assembly 816 and the mounting plate 684 (and thus the first operator control assembly 562) relative to the first mounting plate 802 and the track member 808. The locking gas spring 832 may include a rod 834 and a cylinder 836. One end of the cylinder 836 includes a fitting 838 that engages with a protrusion 840 formed on the mounting plate 684. A snap ring (not marked) is used to secure the fitting 838 to the protrusion 840.

[0177] The receiver 844 can be coupled to the first mounting plate 802 by, for example, a fastener 848 extending through the opening 852 and received in the internal threaded hole of the support 854. The opposite end of the rod 834 (which may include a release valve 842) is inserted into the opening 844A formed in the receiver 844. The receiver 844 includes a slot 844B for receiving the cam 850. An opening 844C is formed through the portion of the receiver 844 including the slot 844B, and a pin 846 extends through the opening 844C and through the opening 850A formed in the cam 850 to pivotally secure the cam 850 to the receiver 844. The lower portion of the opening 844A may communicate with the slot 844B such that when the rod 834 of the locking gas spring 832 is inserted into the opening 844A, the extension 850C of the cam 850 is positioned adjacent to or in contact with the release valve 842.

[0178] A lever 860 is located below the locking gas spring 832 and is coupled to a receiver 844 and a cam 850 to operate the locking gas spring 832 to the release valve 842. The lever 860 includes a fixed end 860-1 and a free end 860-2. In the illustrated embodiment, a support 854 may extend through an opening 844D formed in the receiver 844 and through an opening 860A formed in the fixed end 860-1 of the lever 860. A snap ring (unmarked) may be used to secure the fixed end 860-1 of the lever 860 to the receiver 844 and to pivotally couple the lever 860 to the receiver 844. The fixed end 860-1 of the lever 860 includes a protrusion 862 that is received in an opening 850B formed in the cam 850. The support 854 maintains a necessary spacing to prevent contact between the protrusion 862 and the first mounting plate 802.

[0179] refer to Figures 34-38 The operation of the first vertical adjustment component 800 will be described in detail. Figure 34 and 36 As shown, the free end 860-2 of the joystick 860 is in the rest or first position, and the first operator control component 562 is in the lowered position, i.e., the first vertical position. The operator applies an upward force to the free end 860-2 of the joystick 860, as indicated by arrow B, to move the free end 860-2 of the joystick 860 from the first position to the raised or second position, as shown. Figure 35 and 37 As shown. The fixed housing portion 552A may include a groove 553 that accommodates the movement of the lever 860.

[0180] The movement of the free end 860-2 of the joystick 860 from the first position to the second position causes the fixed end 860-1 of the joystick 860 to rotate around. Figure 37 The axis 880 shown rotates. Engagement between cam 850 and protrusion 862 formed on lever 860 causes cam 850 to pivot, causing extension 850C of cam 850 to move upward and actuate (e.g., press down) release valve 842. Actuation of release valve 842 unlocks the locking gas spring 832 and allows the first operator control assembly 562 to move vertically in the direction shown by arrow A. Due to engagement between fitting 838 and protrusion 840, mounting plate 684 moves upward together with cylinder 836 of locking gas spring 832 (a portion of cylinder 836 is in... Figure 34 and 35(See image). The carriage assembly 816, connected to the mounting plate 684, slides upward along the track member 808 via the linear support block 824, and the movable housing portion 552B, connected to the carriage assembly 816, extends and retracts upward along the fixed housing portion 552A. Therefore, the first operator control assembly 562 and the movable housing portion 552B (via the carriage assembly 816 and the mounting plate 684) move from... Figure 34 and 36 The first vertical position shown moves toward the second vertical position, that is, toward... Figure 35 and 37 The movement is shown as an elevation position.

[0181] In some examples, the locking gas spring 832 may be configured such that the cylinder 836 moves upward immediately (i.e., away from the release valve 842) upon actuation of the release valve 842, without requiring additional force. In other examples, the locking gas spring 832 may be configured such that additional upward force is required to achieve the upward movement; for example, the operator may actuate the joystick 860 with their foot or one hand, and may apply additional upward force with their other hand to the first operator control assembly (e.g., the first housing 566) to guide the first operator control assembly 562 to the desired position. In further examples, the first vertical adjustment assembly 800 may optionally include one or more additional structures, such as a cable assembly (not shown) extending between the joystick 860 and the locking gas spring 832, which actuates the release valve 842 to unlock the locking gas spring 832. In some specific examples, the joystick 860 may be positioned at different locations on the first support structure 552 or the first operator control assembly 562 (e.g., above all or part of the locking gas spring 832).

[0182] After the first operator control assembly 562 is placed in the desired vertical position, the operator releases the free end 860-2 of the lever 860. The free end 860-2 of the lever 860 returns to the first position, which disengages the extension 850C of the cam 850 from the release valve 842 and locks the locking gas spring 832, thereby securing the first operator control assembly 562 in place.

[0183] To lower the first operator control assembly 562, the operator moves the free end 860-2 of the lever 860 from the first position to the second position by applying an upward force with their foot or one hand in the direction indicated by arrow B (which depresses the release valve 842 and unlocks the locking gas spring 832). Then, the operator applies a downward force with their other hand to the first operator control assembly 562 (e.g., the first housing 566) to move it downward in the direction indicated by arrow A. The mounting plate 684 and the carriage assembly 816 move downward together with the locking gas spring 832 to the cylinder 836, causing the first operator control assembly 562 and the movable housing portion 552B to move from the first vertical position (in this case, ...). Figure 35 The raised position shown is towards the second vertical position (in this case, Figure 34 and 36 (As shown in the lowered position) movement. After the first operator control assembly 562 is placed in the desired vertical position, the operator releases the free end 860-2 of the lever 860, which causes the locking gas spring 832 to lock again, thereby securing the first operator control assembly 562 in place. The fixed housing portion 552A, the first mounting plate 802, and the track member 808 remain stationary during the adjustment of the first operator control assembly 562.

[0184] refer to Figure 34 and 35 The second operator control component 564 may include a second vertical adjustment component 900, which may be substantially similar to the first vertical adjustment component 800. The second vertical adjustment component 900 is coupled to the second operator control component 564 to selectively support the second operator control component 564 at multiple vertical positions and provide the second operator control component 564 relative to the floor 540 in the vertical direction indicated by arrow A (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 32 The second vertical adjustment assembly 900 may include a second mounting plate 902 that securely connects the second vertical adjustment assembly 900 to the inner support wall 524, as described with respect to the first mounting plate 802. Although not visible, the second vertical adjustment assembly 900 may also include a track member and a carriage assembly substantially similar to the track member 808 and the carriage assembly 816, wherein the track member is attached to the second mounting plate 902 and the carriage assembly is movably connected to the track member via a plurality of linear support blocks. Figure 34 and 35 As shown, the fixing structure 682 of the second operator control component 564, namely the mounting plate 704, can be connected to the second mounting plate 902 and the track component via the carriage assembly.

[0185] Similar to the first mounting plate 802, the second mounting plate 902 can be connected to the fixed housing portion 554A of the second support structure 554. For example... Figure 34 As shown, the outer surface (not marked) of the second mounting plate 902 is visible. The second mounting plate 902 may include one or more extensions 964 that receive fasteners and spacers (not visible), and the fixed housing portion 554A may include a bracket (not marked) that engages the second mounting plate 902 (e.g., via spacers) to secure the fixed housing portion 554A to the second mounting plate 902.

[0186] Similar to the movable housing portion 552B of the first support structure 552, the movable housing portion 554B of the second support structure 554 can be connected to the carriage assembly. For example, the spacer 974 extending outward from the side of the carriage assembly... Figure 34 As can be seen, the movable housing portion 554B may include a bracket (not labeled) that engages with the carriage assembly (e.g., spacer 974 extends outward from the side) to secure the movable housing portion 554B to the carriage assembly. Although not visible, the movable housing portion 554B may similarly include a bracket that engages with a spacer extending outward from the inner surface of the carriage assembly.

[0187] Continue to refer to Figure 34 and Figure 35 The second vertical adjustment assembly 900 may include a locking gas spring (in Figure 34 and 35 Only the cylinder 936 of the locking gas spring is visible, which may be substantially similar to the locking gas spring 832 described herein. The locking spring may be coupled to the mounting plate 704 of the second operator control assembly 564 to control the vertical position and movement of the carriage assembly and mounting plate 704 (and therefore the second operator control assembly 564) relative to the second mounting plate 902 and the track member. Although not visible, the second vertical adjustment assembly 900 may further include a receiver and a cam, which may be substantially similar to the receiver 844 and cam 850 of the first vertical adjustment assembly 800.

[0188] The joystick 960 is coupled to the receiver and the cam to operate the release valve of the locking gas spring and allow vertical movement of the second operator control assembly 564. For example, to move the second operator control assembly 564 from a first vertical position to a second vertical position (i.e., raise and lower the second operator control assembly 564), the operator applies an upward force with their foot or one hand to the free end 960-2 of the joystick 960, as indicated by arrow B, moving the free end 960-2 from... Figure 34 The indicated rest or first position movement to Figure 35The raised or second position is shown. The fixed housing portion 554A may include a slot 555 that accommodates the movement of the lever 960. As described in detail herein with respect to the first vertical adjustment assembly 800, upward movement of the free end 960-2 of the lever 960 depresses the release valve and unlocks the locking gas spring. Then, the second operator control assembly 564 and the movable housing portion 554B can be... Figure 34 The lowering position shown and Figure 35 The operator moves up or down in the direction indicated by arrow A between the raised positions shown. After placing the second operator control assembly 564 in the desired vertical position, the operator releases the free end 960-2 of the joystick 960. The free end 960-2 of the joystick 960 returns to the first position, which causes the locking gas spring to lock, thereby securing the second operator control assembly 564 in place. The fixed housing portion 554A, the second mounting plate 902, and the track assembly remain stationary during the adjustment of the second operator control assembly 564.

[0189] The first and second operator control components 562, 564 can be continuously adjusted between a lowered position and a raised position, and can be placed at any desired vertical position along the movement path allowed by the first and second vertical adjustment components 800, 900 to achieve ergonomic positioning for operators of different heights and adapt to operator preferences.

[0190] The vertical positions of the first and second operator control components 562, 564 can be adjusted independently of each other. Furthermore, the adjustment of the vertical positions of the first and second operator control components 562, 564 can be used in conjunction with one or more other adjustment features described herein, including changing the position of the steering component 580 of the first operator control component 562, replacing one or more components of the second operator control component 564, and / or adjusting the angular orientation of the first and / or second operator control components 562, 564 relative to the corresponding first and second support structures 552, 554. For example, when the steering component 580 is in... Figure 33-35 When the first position is shown, the steering assembly 580 is located Figure 36 Compared to the second position shown, the operator may wish to place the first operator control assembly 562 in a lower vertical position. The operator may also wish to position the first and second operator control assemblies relative to their respective first and second support structures 552, 554 at a first or second angular orientation (see [reference]). Figures 12A to 13D The vertical position of the first and / or second operator control components 562, 564 can be adjusted based on the size and / or configuration of the replaceable elements in the second operator control component 564. All adjustments to the first and second operator control components 562, 564 can be performed independently of each other.

[0191] refer to Figure 28 , 30 And 32, an external operator control system 660, including first and second operator control components 662, 664, is disposed at the external operator workstation 543 and can be used as an alternative to the first operator control system 560 to drive vehicle 510 and control one or more other vehicle functions. For example, the first and second operator control components 662, 664 are coupled to the outer support wall 640 via one or more mounting brackets (not visible) and are positioned to allow operation by an operator located at the external operator workstation 543, for example, allowing operation by an operator facing the outer support wall 640 and fork assembly 470 (see also...). Figure 31 ).

[0192] The first and second operator control components 662 and 664 are in the lateral direction L D The components are spaced apart from each other and can be positioned, for example, on both sides of the plunger / cylinder assembly 474. The first operator control assembly 662 may be substantially similar to the first operator control assemblies 62, 562 described herein and may include a first housing 666 and a steering assembly 780, which can be in a first position (e.g., Figure 28 , 30 See also 32; see also Figure 2 , 3 and 5-7) and the second position (not shown; see Figure 4 and 8 The second operator control assembly 664 may be substantially similar to the second operator control assemblies 64, 564 described herein, and may include a second housing 668, a housing recess 746, a control element 748, and an elongated gripping member 750. One or both of the control element 748 and the elongated gripping member 750 may be removed and replaced with alternative control elements and / or alternative gripping members (not shown) of different sizes and / or different configurations. Furthermore, as described herein, the first and / or second operator control assemblies 662, 664 may optionally be mounted to the outer support wall 640 such that the first and / or second operator control assemblies 662 and 664 can be positioned in multiple angular orientations and / or multiple vertical positions.

[0193] The dashboard 600 may extend between the first and second operator control components 662, 664 and may define a horizontal support surface that can be used by the operator as a work surface. Figure 28 and 30As shown, at least a portion of the first and second operator control components 662, 664 may be recessed relative to the upper surfaces 600A, 640A of the instrument panel 600 and the outer support wall 640, respectively. The first and second operator control components 662, 664 may be positioned such that their respective uppermost portions (e.g., steering assembly 780 and elongated grip member 750) are flush with or recessed relative to the upper surfaces 600A, 640A of the instrument panel 600 and the outer support wall 640. Positioning the first and second operator control components 662, 664 below the upper surfaces 600A, 640A of the instrument panel 600 and the outer support wall 640 allows objects (e.g., boxes) to slide on the upper surfaces 600A, 640A without contacting the first and second operator control components 662, 664. One or more pallets 602, 604 may be positioned near the first and / or second operator control components 662, 664, which operators can use to store items.

[0194] The representative embodiments of this disclosure described above can be described as follows:

[0195] A. An operator control system for a material handling vehicle, the material handling vehicle including an operator's workstation with a floor and support structure, the operator control system comprising:

[0196] Operator control components;

[0197] A fixed structure, connected to a supporting structure, selectively supports operator control components at multiple angular orientations relative to the supporting structure; and

[0198] A vertical adjustment assembly, which is connected to the operator control assembly, selectively supports the operator control assembly in multiple vertical positions relative to the floor.

[0199] B. The operator control system according to paragraph A, wherein the fixing structure includes a mounting plate having one or more first openings and one or more second openings, and a plurality of fasteners connecting the housing of the operator control components to the support structure, wherein:

[0200] When the fasteners are received in one or more first openings in the mounting plate, the operator control components are mounted relative to the support structure at a first angle; and

[0201] When the fastener is received in one or more second openings, the operator control component is mounted relative to the support structure at a second angular orientation, which is different from the first angular orientation.

[0202] C. The operator control system according to paragraph B, wherein when moving from a first angular orientation to a second angular orientation, the operator control component rotates about an axis that is generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the material handling vehicle.

[0203] D. The operator control system according to any of paragraphs A to C, wherein the support structure includes a fixed housing portion and a movable housing portion, the movable housing portion being connected to and movable with the operator control component, wherein the movable housing portion is positioned to be able to extend and retract on the fixed housing portion.

[0204] E. An operator control system according to any of paragraphs A to D, wherein the operator control component can move continuously in the vertical direction between a first vertical position and a second vertical position.

[0205] F. An operator control system according to any of paragraphs A through E, wherein the vertical adjustment component includes:

[0206] Mounting plate, which is attached to the support wall of the material handling vehicle;

[0207] Track components, which are attached to the mounting plate;

[0208] A carriage assembly movably coupled to a track member, wherein the carriage assembly is coupled to a fixed structure; and

[0209] A locking gas spring is attached to a fixed structure and mounting plate to control the vertical position of the operator control assembly.

[0210] G. An operator control system for a material handling vehicle, the material handling vehicle including an operator's workstation having a floor, a first support structure, and a second support structure spaced laterally from the first support structure, the operator control system comprising:

[0211] A first operator control component, a first fixing structure, and a first vertical adjustment component; the first fixing structure is connected to a first support structure to selectively support the first operator control component at multiple angular orientations relative to the first support structure; the first vertical adjustment component is connected to the first operator control component to selectively support the first operator control component at multiple vertical positions relative to the floor; and

[0212] The second operator control component, the second fixing structure, and the second vertical adjustment component are connected to the second support structure to selectively support the second operator control component at multiple angular orientations relative to the second support structure, and the second vertical adjustment component is connected to the second operator control component to selectively support the second operator control component at multiple vertical positions relative to the floor.

[0213] H. The operator control system as described in paragraph G, wherein:

[0214] The first fixing structure includes a first mounting plate having one or more first openings and one or more second openings, and a plurality of first fasteners connecting a first housing of a first operator control assembly to a first support structure, wherein:

[0215] When the plurality of first fasteners are received in the one or more first openings, the first operator control component is mounted relative to the first support structure at a first angle orientation; and

[0216] When the plurality of first fasteners are received in the one or more second openings, the first operator control component is mounted relative to the first support structure at a second angular orientation, which differs from the first angular orientation; and

[0217] The second fixing structure includes a second mounting plate having one or more third openings and one or more fourth openings, and a plurality of second fasteners connecting the second housing of the second operator control assembly to the second support structure, wherein:

[0218] When the plurality of second fasteners are received in the one or more third openings, the second operator control assembly is mounted relative to the second support structure at a third angle orientation; and

[0219] When the plurality of second fasteners are received in one or more fourth openings, the second operator control component is mounted relative to the second support structure at a fourth angle orientation, which is different from the third angle orientation.

[0220] I. The operator control system as described in paragraph H, wherein:

[0221] When moving from the first angular orientation to the second angular orientation, the first operator control component rotates about a first axis that is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the material handling vehicle; and

[0222] When moving from the third angle orientation to the fourth angle orientation, the second operator control assembly rotates in the opposite direction about a second axis that is generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the material handling vehicle.

[0223] J. An operator control system according to any of paragraphs G to I, wherein:

[0224] The first support structure includes a first fixed housing portion and a first movable housing portion. The first movable housing portion is connected to and can move together with the first operator control component. The first movable housing portion is positioned to extend and retract on the first fixed housing portion.

[0225] The second support structure includes a second fixed housing portion and a second movable housing portion. The second movable housing portion is connected to the second operator control component and can move together with the second operator control component. The second movable housing portion is positioned to be able to extend and retract on the second fixed housing portion.

[0226] K. An operator control component as described in any of paragraphs G to J, wherein:

[0227] The first operator control component can move continuously in the vertical direction between a first vertical position and a second vertical position; and

[0228] The second operator control component can move continuously in the vertical direction between the third and fourth vertical positions.

[0229] L. An operator control component according to any of paragraphs G to K, wherein at least one of the angular orientation or vertical position of the first operator control component can be adjusted independently of at least one of the angular orientation or vertical position of the second operator control component.

[0230] M. An operator control component as described in any of paragraphs G through L, wherein:

[0231] The first vertical adjustment component includes:

[0232] The first mounting plate is attached to the support wall of the material handling vehicle;

[0233] The first track component is attached to the first mounting plate;

[0234] A first carriage assembly, movably coupled to a first track member, wherein the first carriage assembly is coupled to a first fixed structure; and

[0235] A first locking gas spring is connected to a first fixed structure and a first mounting plate to control the vertical position of a first operator control assembly; and

[0236] The second vertical adjustment component includes:

[0237] The second mounting plate is attached to the support wall of the material handling vehicle;

[0238] The second track component is attached to the second mounting plate;

[0239] A second carriage assembly, movably coupled to a second track member, wherein the second carriage assembly is coupled to a second fixed structure; and

[0240] A second locking gas spring is connected to a second fixing structure and a second mounting plate to control the vertical position of the second operator control assembly.

[0241] N. An operator control system for a material handling vehicle, the material handling vehicle including an operator's workstation having a generally level floor surface and a support structure, the operator control system comprising:

[0242] Operator control components, including:

[0243] The housing, which is mounted to the supporting structure; and

[0244] A steering assembly for steering a material handling vehicle, the steering assembly including a steering control structure and a base structure, the steering control structure extending from the base structure, wherein the steering assembly is movable relative to a housing, such that the steering assembly can be positioned in at least one of a first position or a second position, wherein:

[0245] When in the first position, the steering control structure extends from the base structure approximately in a first orientation; and

[0246] When in the second position, the steering control structure extends from the base structure in a second orientation, which differs from the first orientation; and

[0247] A vertical adjustment assembly, which is connected to the operator control assembly, selectively supports the operator control assembly in multiple vertical positions relative to a generally horizontal floor surface.

[0248] O. The operator control system according to paragraph N, wherein the base structure includes a base plate and a mounting member connected to the base plate, the mounting member being pivotally mounted within a housing receiving portion to enable the steering assembly to move between a first position and a second position.

[0249] P. The operator control system as described in paragraph N or O, wherein:

[0250] When the steering assembly is positioned in the first position, the steering control structure is oriented at an acute angle relative to a vertical plane, wherein the vertical plane is perpendicular to the generally horizontal floor surface of the vehicle; and

[0251] When the steering assembly is positioned in the second position, the steering control structure is oriented at an acute angle relative to a horizontal plane, which is parallel to the generally horizontal floor surface of the vehicle.

[0252] Q. The operator control system according to any of paragraphs N to P further includes a locking component for locking the steering component in at least one of a first position or a second position, wherein the locking component includes a locking release structure for unlocking the locking component, thereby enabling the steering component to move between at least one of the first position or the second position.

[0253] R. An operator control system according to any of paragraphs N to Q, wherein the steering assembly moves independently of the support structure and the housing such that when the steering assembly is in a first position and a second position, the support structure and the housing remain in the same position.

[0254] S. The operator control system according to paragraph R, wherein the housing further includes a control element area, and wherein the steering assembly moves independently of the control element area.

[0255] T. An operator control system according to any of paragraphs N to S, wherein the support structure includes a fixed housing portion and a movable housing portion, the movable housing portion being connected to and movable with the operator control component, wherein the movable housing portion is positioned to be telescopically movable on the fixed housing portion.

[0256] U. An operator control system according to any of paragraphs N to T, wherein the operator control component can move continuously in the vertical direction between a first vertical position and a second vertical position.

[0257] V. An operator control system according to any of paragraphs N to U, wherein the vertical adjustment component includes:

[0258] Mounting plate, which is attached to the vehicle's support wall;

[0259] Track components, which are attached to the mounting plate;

[0260] A carriage assembly movably coupled to a track member, wherein the carriage assembly is coupled to a fixed structure; and

[0261] A locking gas spring is attached to a fixed structure and mounting plate to control the vertical position of the operator control assembly.

[0262] W. An operator control system for a material handling vehicle, the material handling vehicle including an operator's workstation having a generally horizontal floor surface, a first support structure, and a second support structure spaced laterally from the first support structure, the operator control system comprising:

[0263] The first operator control component includes:

[0264] A first housing, which is mounted to a first support structure; and

[0265] A steering assembly for steering a material handling vehicle, the steering assembly including a steering control structure and a base structure, the steering control structure extending from the base structure, wherein the steering assembly is movable relative to a first housing, such that the steering assembly can be positioned in at least one of a first position or a second position, wherein:

[0266] When in the first position, the steering control structure extends from the base structure approximately in a first orientation; and

[0267] When in the second position, the steering control structure extends from the base structure in a second orientation, which differs from the first orientation; and

[0268] A first vertical adjustment assembly, connected to a first operator control assembly, selectively supports the first operator control assembly in multiple vertical positions relative to a generally horizontal floor surface; and

[0269] A second operator control assembly, comprising a second housing mounted to a second support structure; and

[0270] A second vertical adjustment assembly, which is connected to a second operator control assembly, selectively supports the second operator control assembly in multiple vertical positions relative to a generally horizontal floor surface.

[0271] X. The operator control system according to paragraph W, wherein the base structure includes a base plate and a mounting member connected to the base plate, wherein the mounting member is pivotally mounted within a receiving portion of the housing to enable the steering assembly to move between a first position and a second position.

[0272] Y. The operator control system as described in paragraph W or X, wherein:

[0273] When the steering assembly is positioned in the first position, the steering control structure is oriented at an acute angle relative to a vertical plane, wherein the vertical plane is perpendicular to the generally horizontal floor surface of the vehicle; and

[0274] When the steering assembly is positioned in the second position, the steering control structure is oriented at an acute angle relative to a horizontal plane, which is parallel to the generally horizontal floor surface of the vehicle.

[0275] Z. An operator control system according to any of paragraphs W to Y, wherein the steering assembly moves independently of the first support structure and the first housing, such that when the steering assembly is in a first position and a second position, the first support structure and the first housing remain in the same position.

[0276] AA. According to the operator control system described in paragraph Z, the first housing further includes a control element area, and the steering assembly moves independently of the control element area.

[0277] BB, The operator control system described in any of paragraphs W to AA, wherein:

[0278] The first support structure includes a first fixed housing portion and a first movable housing portion. The first movable housing portion is connected to and can move together with the first operator control component. The first movable housing portion is positioned to extend and retract on the first fixed housing portion.

[0279] The second support structure includes a second fixed housing portion and a second movable housing portion. The second movable housing portion is connected to the second operator control component and can move together with the second operator control component. The second movable housing portion is positioned to be able to extend and retract on the second fixed housing portion.

[0280] CC, the operator control component described in any of paragraphs W through BB, wherein:

[0281] The first operator control component can move continuously in the vertical direction between a first vertical position and a second vertical position; and

[0282] The second operator control component can move continuously in the vertical direction between the third and fourth vertical positions.

[0283] DD, The operator control component described in any of paragraphs W to CC, wherein the vertical position of the first operator control component can be adjusted independently of the vertical position of the second operator control component.

[0284] EE, the operator control component according to any of paragraphs W to DD, wherein the vertical position of the second operator control component can be adjusted independently of at least one of the vertical position of the first operator control component or the positioning of the steering component.

[0285] FF, the operator control component as described in any of paragraphs W through EE, wherein:

[0286] The first vertical adjustment component includes:

[0287] The first mounting plate is attached to the support wall of the material handling vehicle;

[0288] The first track component is attached to the first mounting plate;

[0289] A first carriage assembly, movably coupled to a first track member, wherein the first carriage assembly is coupled to a first fixed structure; and

[0290] A first locking gas spring is connected to a first fixed structure and a first mounting plate to control the vertical position of a first operator control assembly; and

[0291] The second vertical adjustment component includes:

[0292] The second mounting plate is attached to the support wall of the material handling vehicle;

[0293] The second track component is attached to the second mounting plate;

[0294] A second carriage assembly, movably coupled to a second track member, wherein the second carriage assembly is coupled to a second fixed structure; and

[0295] A second locking gas spring is connected to a second fixing structure and a second mounting plate to control the vertical position of the second operator control assembly.

[0296] GG, An operator control system for a material handling vehicle, the material handling vehicle including an operator's workstation with a support structure, the operator control system comprising:

[0297] Operator control components, including:

[0298] A housing, which is mounted to a support structure, the housing including a recess;

[0299] A first elongated gripping member, which is mounted to the housing at at least one gripping mounting position and extends over a recess; and

[0300] A first control element, mounted within a recess to the housing, is configured to control the function of a material handling vehicle; and

[0301] A vertical adjustment assembly, which is connected to the operator control assembly, selectively supports the operator control assembly in multiple vertical positions relative to the floor.

[0302] The first elongated gripping member can be replaced by a second elongated gripping member, which is mounted to the housing at the at least one gripping mounting position and extends over the recess and has a different size and / or a different configuration than the first gripping member.

[0303] HH, According to the operator control system described in paragraph GG, the at least one gripping mounting position includes a first gripping mounting position and a second gripping mounting position, the first gripping mounting position is on a first side of the recess, and the second gripping mounting position is on a second side of the recess, the second side of the recess being opposite to the first side of the recess.

[0304] II. The operator control system according to paragraph GG or HH, wherein the support structure includes a fixed housing portion and a movable housing portion, the movable housing portion being connected to the operator control component and movable together with the operator control component, wherein the movable housing portion is positioned to be able to extend and retract on the fixed housing portion.

[0305] JJ, an operator control system according to any of paragraphs GG to II, wherein the operator control component can move continuously in the vertical direction between a first vertical position and a second vertical position.

[0306] KK, the operator control system described in any of paragraphs GG to JJ, wherein the vertical adjustment component includes:

[0307] Mounting plate, which is attached to the vehicle's support wall;

[0308] Track components, which are attached to the mounting plate;

[0309] A carriage assembly movably coupled to a track member, wherein the carriage assembly is coupled to a fixed structure; and

[0310] A locking gas spring is attached to a fixed structure and mounting plate to control the vertical position of the operator control assembly.

[0311] LL. An operator control system for a material handling vehicle, the material handling vehicle including an operator's workstation with a support structure, the operator control system comprising:

[0312] Operator control components, including:

[0313] A housing, which is mounted to a support structure, the housing including a recess;

[0314] A first elongated gripping member, which is mounted to the housing and extends into the recess; and

[0315] A first control element, mounted within a recess to the housing, is configured to control the function of a material handling vehicle and is capable of being positioned in multiple locations, including two end positions; and

[0316] It has at least one of the following characteristics:

[0317] The first elongated gripping member can be replaced by a second elongated gripping member, which extends over the recess and has a different size and / or a different configuration than the first gripping member; or

[0318] The first control element can be replaced by a second control element, which can be positioned in multiple locations including two end positions and has a different size and / or different configuration than the first control element;

[0319] Wherein, when the first control element or the second control element is positioned in any of its plurality of positions, the gap between one of the first control element or the second control element and an adjacent portion of one of the first gripping members or the second gripping member falls within the range from the minimum gap distance to the maximum reach distance; and

[0320] A vertical adjustment assembly, which is connected to the operator control assembly, selectively supports the operator control assembly in multiple vertical positions relative to the floor.

[0321] According to the operator control system described in paragraph LL, a first elongated gripping member is fixed to the housing at a first gripping mounting position and a second gripping mounting position, wherein the first gripping mounting position is on a first side of the recess and the second gripping mounting position is on a second side of the recess, the second side of the recess being opposite to the first side of the recess.

[0322] NN, an operator control system for a material handling vehicle, the material handling vehicle including an operator's workstation with a floor and support structure, the operator control system comprising:

[0323] Operator control components, including:

[0324] The housing, which is mounted to the supporting structure;

[0325] A vertical adjustment assembly, connected to the operator control assembly, to selectively support the operator control assembly in multiple vertical positions relative to the floor; and

[0326] At least one of the following characteristics:

[0327] A steering assembly for steering a material handling vehicle, the steering assembly including a steering control structure and a base structure, the steering control structure extending from the base structure, wherein the steering assembly is movable relative to a housing such that the steering assembly can be positioned in at least one of a first position or a second position, wherein the steering control structure extends from the base structure generally in a first orientation when in the first position, and wherein the steering control structure extends from the base structure generally in a second orientation different from the first orientation when in the second position; or

[0328] A fixed structure, which is connected to a support structure, to selectively support the operator control components at multiple angular orientations relative to the support structure.

[0329] OO. An operator control system for a material handling vehicle, the material handling vehicle including an operator's workstation with a floor and support structure, the operator control system comprising:

[0330] Operator control components, including:

[0331] A housing, which is mounted to a support structure, the housing including a recess;

[0332] A vertical adjustment assembly, connected to the operator control assembly, to selectively support the operator control assembly in multiple vertical positions relative to the floor; and

[0333] At least one of the following characteristics:

[0334] A first control element and a first elongated gripping member, the first control element being mounted to the housing within a recess, the first elongated gripping member being mounted to the housing at at least one gripping mounting position and extending over the recess, wherein the first elongated gripping member may be replaced by a second elongated gripping member having a different size and / or a different construction than the first gripping member, and wherein the first control element may be replaced by a second control element that can be positioned in a plurality of positions including two end positions and has a different size and / or a different construction than the first control element; or

[0335] A fixed structure, which is connected to a support structure, to selectively support the operator control components at multiple angular orientations relative to the support structure.

[0336] PP, an operator control system for a material handling vehicle, the material handling vehicle including an operator's workstation having a floor, a first support structure, and a second support structure spaced laterally from the first support structure, the operator control system comprising:

[0337] The first operator control component includes:

[0338] A first housing, which is mounted to a first supporting structure;

[0339] A first vertical adjustment assembly, coupled to a first operator control assembly, for selectively supporting the first operator control assembly in a plurality of vertical positions relative to the floor; and at least one of the following features:

[0340] A steering assembly for steering a material handling vehicle, the steering assembly including a steering control structure and a base structure, the steering control structure extending from the base structure, wherein the steering assembly is movable relative to a housing such that the steering assembly can be positioned in at least one of a first position or a second position, wherein the steering control structure extends from the base structure generally in a first orientation when in the first position, and wherein the steering control structure extends from the base structure generally in a second orientation different from the first orientation when in the second position; or

[0341] A first fixed structure, connected to a first support structure, selectively supports a first operator control assembly at multiple angular orientations relative to the first support structure; and

[0342] The second operator control component includes:

[0343] A second housing, which is mounted to a second support structure, the second housing including a recess;

[0344] A second vertical adjustment assembly, connected to a second operator control assembly, for selectively supporting the second operator control assembly in a plurality of vertical positions relative to the floor; and at least one of the following features:

[0345] A first control element and a first elongated gripping member, the first control element being mounted to the housing within a recess, the first elongated gripping member being mounted to the housing at at least one gripping mounting position and extending over the recess, wherein the first elongated gripping member may be replaced by a second elongated gripping member having a different size and / or a different construction than the first gripping member, and wherein the first control element may be replaced by a second control element that can be positioned in a plurality of positions including two end positions and has a different size and / or a different construction than the first control element; or

[0346] A second fixed structure is connected to a second support structure to selectively support a second operator control component at multiple angular orientations relative to the second support structure.

[0347] QQ, an operator control system for a material handling vehicle, the material handling vehicle including an operator's workstation with a first support structure, the operator control system comprising:

[0348] The first operator control component includes:

[0349] A first housing, which is mounted to or integrally formed with the first support structure; and

[0350] A steering assembly for steering a material handling vehicle, the steering assembly including a steering control structure and a base structure, the steering control structure extending from the base structure, wherein the steering assembly is movable relative to a first housing, such that the steering assembly can be positioned in at least one of a first position or a second position, wherein:

[0351] When in the first position, the steering control structure extends from the base structure approximately in a first orientation; and

[0352] When in the second position, the steering control structure extends from the base structure in a second orientation, which is different from the first orientation.

[0353] RR, the operator control system described in paragraph QQ, wherein the base structure includes a base plate and mounting components connected to the base plate.

[0354] SS, the operator control system according to paragraph RR, wherein the mounting is received in the receiving part of the first housing.

[0355] TT, the operator control system according to paragraph SS, wherein the mounting is pivotally mounted within the first housing receiving portion to enable the steering assembly to move between a first position and a second position.

[0356] UU, the operator control system according to paragraph S or paragraph TT, wherein the mounting part has a hemispherical shape and the receiving part has a corresponding hemispherical shape.

[0357] VV, an operator control system according to any of paragraphs RR to UU, wherein the substrate is rotatably mounted on the mounting such that the substrate is rotatable relative to the mounting.

[0358] WW, an operator control system according to any of paragraphs RR to VV, wherein the steering control structure is rotatably mounted on a base plate such that the steering control structure can rotate relative to the base plate.

[0359] XX, An operator control system according to any of paragraphs RR to WW, wherein the substrate includes a plurality of notches surrounding the periphery of the substrate.

[0360] YY, the operator control system according to any of paragraphs RR to XX, wherein when the steering assembly is in a first position, the steering control structure is oriented at an acute angle relative to a vertical plane, wherein the vertical plane is perpendicular to the generally horizontal floor surface of the vehicle.

[0361] ZZ, the operator control system according to any of paragraphs RR to YY, wherein when the steering assembly is positioned in the second position, the steering control structure is oriented at an acute angle relative to a horizontal plane, wherein the horizontal plane is parallel to the generally horizontal floor surface of the vehicle.

[0362] AAA, the operator control system according to any of paragraphs RR to ZZ, further includes a locking component for locking the steering component in at least one of a first position or a second position.

[0363] BBB, the operator control system according to paragraph AAA, wherein the locking component includes a locking release structure for unlocking the locking component, enabling the steering component to move between at least one of a first position or a second position.

[0364] CCC, the operator control system according to paragraph AAA or paragraph BBB, wherein the locking component includes a sensor for sensing that the steering component is in at least one of a first position or a second position.

[0365] The operator control system described in any of paragraphs RR to CCC further includes a fixing structure connected to a first support structure to selectively support the first operator control component at different positions on the first support structure.

[0366] EEE, the operator control system according to paragraph DDD, wherein the fixing structure includes a mounting plate coupled to a first support structure and a plurality of fasteners extending through an opening provided in the mounting plate, and wherein the fasteners couple the first housing to the first support structure.

[0367] FFF, according to the operator control system described in paragraph EEE, wherein the mounting plate includes one or more first openings and one or more second openings, wherein when a fastener is received in the one or more first openings of the mounting plate, the first operator control component is mounted relative to the first support structure in a first orientation, and when a fastener is received in the one or more second openings of the mounting plate, the first operator control component is mounted relative to the first support structure in a second orientation different from the first orientation.

[0368] GGG, an operator control system according to any of paragraphs RR to FFF, wherein the first housing has a curved lower surface that is received by a curved upper surface of a first support structure.

[0369] HHH, the operator control system described in any of paragraphs RR to GGG, further includes:

[0370] The second operator control component includes:

[0371] A second housing, which is mounted to a second support structure of the material handling vehicle; and

[0372] At least one control element, associated with the second housing, is used to control the functions of the material handling vehicle;

[0373] The first and second support structures of the material handling vehicle are spaced apart from each other in the lateral direction of the material handling vehicle, which is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the material handling vehicle.

[0374] III. The operator control system according to paragraph HHH, wherein the first and second support structures of the material handling vehicle are separated by a recess of the material handling vehicle, the recess defining an opening area extending downward from the first and second operator control components toward the floor surface.

[0375] JJJ, an operator control system according to any one of paragraphs RR to III, wherein the operator's workstation is located in an operator compartment having a floor surface, and the operator stands on the floor surface when operating the vehicle using the operator control system.

[0376] KKK, an operator control system for a material handling vehicle, the material handling vehicle including an operator's workstation with a first support structure, the operator control system comprising:

[0377] First operator control component; and

[0378] A fixed structure, which is connected to a first support structure, to selectively support the first operator control component at different positions on the first support structure.

[0379] LLL, the operator control system according to paragraph KKK, wherein the fixing structure includes a mounting plate coupled to a first support structure and a plurality of fasteners extending through an opening provided in the mounting plate, and wherein the fasteners couple a first housing of the first operator control assembly to the first support structure.

[0380] According to the operator control system described in paragraph LLL, the mounting plate includes one or more first openings and one or more second openings, wherein when a fastener is received in the one or more first openings of the mounting plate, the first operator control component is mounted relative to the first support structure in a first orientation, and when a fastener is received in the one or more second openings of the mounting plate, the first operator control component is mounted relative to the first support structure in a second orientation different from the first orientation.

[0381] NNN, According to the operator control system described in paragraph LLL, the mounting plate includes one or more first openings and one or more second openings, wherein when a fastener is received in the one or more first openings of the mounting plate, a first operator control component is positioned relative to a first support structure at a first angular orientation, and when moved from the first angular orientation to a second angular orientation, the first operator control component rotates about an axis generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the material handling vehicle, such that when a fastener is received in the one or more second openings, the first operator control component is mounted at a second angular orientation.

[0382] OOO, an operator control system according to any of paragraphs KKK to NNN, wherein the first housing has a curved lower surface that is received by a curved upper surface of a first support structure.

[0383] PPP, an operator control system according to any of paragraphs KKK to OOO, further includes:

[0384] The second operator control component is installed on the second support structure of the material handling vehicle;

[0385] The first and second support structures of the material handling vehicle are spaced apart from each other in the lateral direction of the material handling vehicle, which is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the material handling vehicle.

[0386] QQQ, an operator control system according to any of paragraphs KKK to PPP, wherein a fixed structure selectively supports a first operator control component at different angular orientations relative to a first support structure.

[0387] RRR, an operator control system for a material handling vehicle, the material handling vehicle including an operator's workstation with a support structure, the operator control system comprising:

[0388] Operator control components, including:

[0389] A housing, which is mounted to or integrated with a support structure, the housing including a recess;

[0390] A first elongated gripping member, which is mounted to the housing and extends into a recess in the housing; and

[0391] A first control element, mounted within a recess to the housing, is configured to control the function of a material handling vehicle and is capable of being positioned in multiple locations, including two end positions; and

[0392] It has at least one of the following characteristics:

[0393] The first elongated gripping member can be replaced by a second elongated gripping member, which extends over the housing recess and has a different size and / or a different configuration than the first gripping member; or

[0394] The first control element can be replaced by a second control element, which can be positioned in multiple locations including two end positions and has a different size and / or different configuration than the first control element;

[0395] Wherein, when the first control element or the second control element is positioned in any of its multiple positions, the gap between one of the first control element or the second control element and an adjacent portion of one of the first gripping members or the second gripping members falls within the range from the minimum gap distance to the maximum reach distance.

[0396] SSS, the operator control system according to paragraph RRR, wherein the housing recess has a curved shape.

[0397] TTT, an operator control system as described in paragraph RRR or paragraph SSS, wherein the first control element is a switch or joystick.

[0398] UUU, an operator control system according to any of paragraphs KKK to TTT, wherein a first elongated gripping member is fixed to the housing at a first gripping mounting position and a second gripping mounting position, wherein the first gripping mounting position is on a first side of a recess in the housing, and the second gripping mounting position is on a second side of a recess in the housing, the second side of the recess in the housing being opposite to the first side of the recess in the housing.

[0399] VVV, an operator control system according to any of paragraphs KKK to UUU, wherein the first elongated gripping member includes a third control element.

[0400] WWW, an operator control system for a material handling vehicle, the material handling vehicle including an operator's workstation with a support structure, the operator control system comprising:

[0401] Operator control components, including:

[0402] A housing, which is mounted to or integrated with a support structure, the housing including a recess;

[0403] A first elongated gripping member, which is mounted to the housing at at least one gripping mounting position and extends over a recess in the housing; and

[0404] A first control element, mounted within a recess in the housing, is configured to control the function of a material handling vehicle; and

[0405] The first elongated gripping member can be replaced by a second elongated gripping member, which is mounted to the housing at the at least one gripping mounting position and extends over a housing recess and has a different size and / or a different configuration than the first gripping member.

[0406] XXX, According to the operator control system described in paragraph WWW, the housing recess has a curved shape.

[0407] YYY, the operator control system described in paragraph WWW or paragraph XXX, wherein the first control element is a switch or joystick.

[0408] ZZZ, the operator control system described in any of paragraphs WWW to YYY, wherein the at least one gripping mounting position includes a first gripping mounting position and a second gripping mounting position, the first gripping mounting position being on a first side of the housing recess, and the second gripping mounting position being on a second side of the housing recess, the second side of the housing recess being opposite to the first side of the housing recess.

[0409] AAAA, an operator control system according to any of the paragraphs WWW to ZZZ, wherein the first elongated gripping member includes a second control element.

[0410] Furthermore, the various features, aspects, and embodiments described herein can be used in any combination of each other, or individually.

[0411] Having described the embodiments in such detail, it will be apparent that modifications and variations are possible without departing from the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. An operator control system for a materials handling vehicle comprising an operator station having a support structure, the operator control system comprising: an operator control assembly comprising: a housing mounted to or integral with the support structure, the housing comprising a recess; a first elongate gripping member mounted to the housing and extending over the housing recess; and a first control element mounted to the housing within the recess, the first control element being configured to control a function of the materials handling vehicle and being positionable in a plurality of positions including two end positions; and wherein at least one of the following features applies: the first elongate gripping member is replaceable by a second elongate gripping member extending over the housing recess and having a different size and / or a different configuration than the first gripping member; or the first control element is replaceable by a second control element positionable in the plurality of positions including the two end positions and having a different size and / or a different configuration than the first control element; wherein a gap between one of the first control element or the second control element and an adjacent portion of one of the first gripping member or the second gripping member falls within a range from a minimum gap distance to a maximum reach distance, with the first control element or the second control element positioned in any one of the plurality of positions thereof.

2. The operator control system of claim 1, wherein the housing recess has a curvilinear shape.

3. The operator control system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the first control element is a switch or a joystick.

4. The operator control system of any one of claims 1-3, wherein the first elongate gripping member is fixed to the housing at a first gripping mounting location and a second gripping mounting location, with the first gripping mounting location on a first side of the housing recess and the second gripping mounting location on a second side of the housing recess, the second side of the housing recess being opposite the first side of the housing recess.

5. The operator control system of any one of claims 1-4, wherein the first elongate gripping member comprises a third control element configured to control a function of the materials handling vehicle.

6. An operator control system for a materials handling vehicle comprising an operator station having a first support structure, the operator control system comprising: a first operator control assembly comprising: a first housing mounted to or integral with the first support structure, the first housing comprising a receptacle; and a steering assembly for steering the materials handling vehicle, the steering assembly comprising a steering control structure and a base structure, the steering control structure extending from the base structure, wherein the base structure comprises a base plate and a mount coupled to the base plate, the mount being pivotably mounted within the receptacle of the first housing such that the steering assembly is movable between at least a first position and a second position, wherein: when in the first position, the steering control structure extends from the base structure in a first orientation; and when in the second position, the steering control structure extends from the base structure in a second orientation. When in the second position, the steering control structure extends from the base structure generally in a second orientation, the second orientation being different than the first orientation.

7. The operator control system of claim 6, wherein: the first housing further comprises a control element region; and the steering assembly moves independently of the control element region.

8. The operator control system of claim 7, wherein the orientation of the control element region relative to the first support structure remains unchanged whether the steering control assembly is in the first position or the second position.

9. The operator control system of any of claims 6-8, wherein the mount has a hemi-spherical shape and the receiver has a corresponding hemi-spherical shape.

10. The operator control system of any of claims 6-8, wherein the base plate includes a plurality of notches around a perimeter of the base plate.

11. The operator control system of any of claims 6-8, wherein: when the steering assembly is positioned in the first position, the steering control structure is oriented at an acute angle relative to a vertical plane, wherein the vertical plane is perpendicular to a generally horizontal floor surface of the vehicle; and when the steering assembly is positioned in the second position, the steering control structure is oriented at an acute angle relative to a horizontal plane, wherein the horizontal plane is parallel to the generally horizontal floor surface of the vehicle.

12. The operator control system of any of claims 6-8, further comprising a locking assembly for locking the steering assembly in at least one of the first position or the second position, wherein the locking assembly includes a lock release structure for unlocking the locking assembly so that the steering assembly can move between the at least one of the first position or the second position.

13. An operator control system for a materials handling vehicle, the materials handling vehicle including an operator station having a first support structure and a second support structure, wherein the first support structure and the second support structure are spaced apart from each other in a lateral direction of the materials handling vehicle, the lateral direction being perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the materials handling vehicle, the operator control system comprising: a first operator control assembly supported on the first support structure via a first mounting structure, the first mounting structure selectively orienting the first operator control assembly at one of at least a first angular orientation and a second angular orientation relative to the first support structure; and a second operator control assembly supported on the second support structure via a second mounting structure, the second mounting structure selectively orienting the second operator control assembly at one of at least the first angular orientation and the second angular orientation relative to the second support structure; wherein: the first mounting structure and the second mounting structure each include a mounting plate coupled with the respective first support structure or second support structure and a plurality of fasteners extending through openings provided in the mounting plate; when the fasteners are received in the one or more first openings of the mounting plate of the first fixed structure, the first operator control assembly is positioned in a first angular orientation relative to the first support structure, and when moved from the first angular orientation to a second angular orientation, the first operator control assembly rotates about a first axis that is generally parallel to a longitudinal axis of the materials handling vehicle, such that when the fasteners are received in the one or more second openings, the first operator control assembly is mounted in the second angular orientation; when the fasteners are received in the one or more first openings of the mounting plate of the second fixed structure, the second operator control assembly is positioned in a first angular orientation relative to the second support structure, and when moved from the first angular orientation to a second angular orientation, the second operator control assembly rotates about a second axis that is generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the materials handling vehicle, such that when the fasteners are received in the one or more second openings, the second operator control assembly is mounted in the second angular orientation; and the positioning of the first and second operator control assemblies in the respective first or second angular orientations depends on the spacing of the first support structure relative to the second support structure in the transverse direction.

14. The operator control system of claim 13, wherein the fasteners couple respective first and second housings of the first and second operator control assemblies to the corresponding support structures.

15. The operator control system of claim 13 or 14, wherein the first housing has a curved lower surface that is received by a curved upper surface of the first support structure, and the second housing has a curved lower surface that is received by a curved upper surface of the second support structure.

16. The operator control system of claim 13 or 14, wherein the first and second operator control assemblies are positioned in the first angular orientation for a narrower width vehicle, and the first and second operator control assemblies are positioned in the second angular orientation for a wider width vehicle.

17. An operator control system for a materials handling vehicle, the materials handling vehicle including an operator station having a generally horizontal floor surface and a support structure, the operator control system comprising: an operator control assembly supported by the support structure; a vertical adjustment assembly coupled to the operator control assembly to selectively support the operator control assembly at a plurality of vertical positions on the support structure relative to the generally horizontal floor surface; and at least one of the following features: A) a housing mounted to the support structure; and a steering assembly for steering the materials handling vehicle, the steering assembly including a steering control structure and a base structure, the steering control structure extending from the base structure, wherein the steering assembly is movable relative to the housing such that the steering assembly is positionable in at least one of a first position or a second position, wherein: when in the first position, the steering control structure extends from the base structure in a first orientation; and when in the second position, the steering control structure extends from the base structure in a second orientation, the second orientation being different than the first orientation; B) a fixed structure coupled to the support structure to selectively support the operator control assembly at a plurality of angular orientations relative to the support structure; or C) a housing mounted to the support structure, the housing including a recess; a first elongated gripping member mounted to the housing at at least one gripping mounting location and extending over the recess; and a first control element mounted to the housing within the recess, the first control element configured to control a function of the materials handling vehicle; and wherein the first elongated gripping member is replaceable with a second elongated gripping member mounted to the housing at the at least one gripping mounting location and extending over the recess and having a different size and / or a different configuration than the first gripping member.

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