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One product, many options and numerous applications
The hand controller (HC) is an important interface between operator and machine and has been developed to meet the high demands of the military sector while providing reliability and optimal user comfort. HCs are available as a one or two hand grip shell style. Each of the ergonomically designed motion control handles can hold up to 12 independent sealed switches which are adaptable to customer's requirements.
Digital HCs process data via a central processing unit (CPU) that enables BIT and customers to define output characteristics. The standard version is equipped with an RS-422 or CANbus data link interface and typically connects to servo electronics or the customer's subsystem. All HCs are fully galvanic isolated and equipped with electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection and can be integrated into tanks, UAVs, ships, simulators or other military vehicles.
There are five hand controllers that can be supplied off the shelf at a competitive unit cost. Alternatively, customized controllers can be developed by selecting from a range of available options such as the setting transfer or grip type.
1-Hand Controllers
Fix | Deflection | Compact | Ergonomic Symmetric |
Classic | Left-handed | Right-handed |
1-Hand controller benefits:
- Smaller dimensions than 2-Hand Controller
- One-handed operation
- Connectors can be mounted on any side
2-Hand Controllers
Classic Deflection | Ergonomic Deflection | Portable HC "Prototype" |
2-hand controller benefits:
- Horizontal and vertical grip shell
- Precise handling with excellent user grip during movement in heavy terrain
Grip Types
The output signal can either be derived from the force on the thumb sensor (type - fix) or from the deflection of the grip (type - deflection).
Fix | Deflection | Deflection |
- Fixed type benefits
- No unintended movement in heavy terrain
- No moving mechanical parts
- Smaller dimensions and weight
- Deflection type benefits
- Fine graduation by the angle of rotation
Buttons, Switches, and Position
We offer precision switches and buttons with over 1 million life cycles; switches with digital and analog output options; high performance, snap action, push-button, toggle slide, and rotary switches.
Switch Setting and Transfer Data
- Flexible modular system
- Switches hard-wired or via digital interface
- RS-422, CANbus or analog
- Up to five storable output characteristics
- Discrete signals by the second connector
The output characteristics are individually programmable, with up to five polynomial functions storable, they can be selected during operation via the data link.
Hand Controller Wiring
Numbers of Connectors and Outlet Positions
Because it is important to optimally utilize the space available you can choose where the connector should be located on the device.
Color and Printing Options
Your hand controller can be painted and labeled as per your specifications.
Deflection | |
1-Hand Controller | +/- 20° |
2-Hand Controller | +/- 24° |
Supply voltage | |
MIL-STD-1275-Power | 18 to 32VDC |
Max. Rating | 2W |
Discrete switches supply voltage/continuous current | 5 to 36VDC / 0.5A continuous |
Palm and fire supply voltage/Palm and output switches continuous current | 5 to 36VDC / 0.2A continuous |
Customer signal interface | RS-422 up to 115,200 bps, CANbus up to 1 MHz, analog and others on request |
Output signal | 5 programmable polynomial functions |
EMI/EMC qualification | According to MIL-STD-461 ground army |
Environmental qualification | According to ICE 61000-4-2 |
Environmental | According to MIL-STD-810 ground mobile |
Dead zone | +/- 3% mechanical dead band Electrical adjustable due to polynomial output function |
Temperature range | -40°C to +51°C operation (-46°C to 71°C operation on request) -51°C to 71°C storage |
Approx. weight | |
1-Hand grip | 1.9 kg 4.18 lb |
1-Hand grip fixed type | 1.4 kg 3.08 lb |
2-Hand grip | 2.7 kg 5.95 lb |
Hand Controllers
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