New joystick uses Hall effect technology

Penny + Giles is launching a new addition to its range of JC6000 robust multi-axis joysticks designed for demanding operator control applications.

Using proven non-contact Hall effect technology, this additional version of the JC6000 lasts up to 15 million operations - 100% longer than joysticks using potentiometer technology.

With a high strength operating lever that is 50% stronger than its predecessor (JC600), the JC6000 is one of the strongest and most reliable joystick controllers on the market, and is designed to meet EMC requirements of up to 100V/m.

Designed for safe, reliable operation, the new Hall effect technology provides the benefit of contactless sensing of the lever movement, and dual independent output signals that can be monitored and compared for failure detection in safety critical applications.

In addition, a combination of Hall sensors with independent contacting track switches on each axis can be selected to provide further operator safety features.

The JC6000 joystick base is fitted with a die-cast case to protect the sensing mechanism and is rated to IP66 above the mounting panel when installed.

Connections are made through AMP '040' series multi-lock connectors.

Joysticks used for control applications in construction, agricultural, forestry and other off-road vehicles, or on access platforms for example, are often subject to rough handling.

"Research has shown that operators routinely lean heavily on joysticks and in some cases use the joystick to pull themselves up into the cab," comments Mike Iles, Business Development Manager, Penny + Giles.

"The lever of the JC6000 has been tested to 50Kg ensuring durability even under very rough handling." There is a range of standard configurable handle designs available, including a ‘person present safety switch in the handle that can be connected directly to the logic circuits of the control system.

Large volume OEM users can also benefit from the Penny + Giles custom-design service to develop handle formats that are unique to specialist vehicle functions.

Thanks to the modular 'designed-for-manufacture' format of the JC6000, Penny + Giles is able to offer OEMs the flexibility of a wide range of options cost-effectively, making this a highly competitive choice, particularly for high volume users.

Other members of the JC6000 family include potentiometer tracks with low current directional switches, and high current micro-switches for centre and directional switching.

Further developments will include pulse width modulated (PWM) and CANbus output versions.