Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler, more particularly to a control system for a motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler.

Background of the Invention

A type of motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler is commonly referred to as a powered (or power) barrow. A motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler may for example take the form of an electric wheelbarrow or mini dumper.

Summary of the Invention

According to a first aspect there is provided a motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler comprising a control system for controlling the propulsion and steering of the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler, the control system comprising a manually operable control device and being functional to cause the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler to travel in a direction that the manually operable control device is moved.

According to another aspect there is provided a control system for a motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler, the control system comprising a manually operable control device operatively connected to a control circuit arrangement for controlling steering of the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler, the control system functional to cause the direction of travel of the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler to match a direction that the manually operable control device is moved.

The control system provides intuitive steering; causing the vehicle (motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler) to travel in the same direction that the manually operable control device is moved in. This avoids any requirement for the user to counter steer the vehicle; in other words, regardless of whether the vehicle is moving forwards or rearwards, the manually operable control device is moved to the left to steer the vehicle leftwards and is moved to the right to steer the vehicle to the right.

I The manually operable control device may be configured for single-handed manipulation.

The manually operable control device may be a joystick.

In an example, the manually operable control device is a joystick with two-axis control and movable from an origin corresponding to the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler being at a standstill. Thus, when the joystick is at the origin (neutral position), the vehicle does not move, and when the joystick is moved from the origin, travel of the vehicle commences in a direction matching the direction of movement of the joystick from the origin.

In an example, the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler comprises a parking brake, and the parking brake is applied upon the joystick returning the origin.

In an example, a speed of travel of the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler is proportional to the extent of travel of the joystick from the origin.

In an example, the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler further comprises a hand support arrangement for facilitating natural and stable use of a user’s wrist/hand when operating the joystick.

In an example, the manually operable control device is located on a panel that is inclined relative to a horizontal plane for encouraging run-off of moisture and/or particulate material to a desired region or side of the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler.

The motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler may be an articulated vehicle.

In an example, the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler comprising a front portion and a rear portion with a connecting pivot between, the front portion provided with a first wheel arrangement and the rear portion provided with a second wheel arrangement. In an example, the first wheel arrangement of the front portion comprises a first pair of wheels associated with a first axle and a first drive arrangement, the second wheel arrangement of the rear portion comprises a second pair of wheels associated with a second axle and a second drive arrangement, and the first and second drive arrangements comprise direct drive mechanisms to power the first and second axles.

In an example, each of the first and second drive arrangements is provided with a battery power supply.

In an example, the manually operable control device is a joystick with two-axis control and movable from an origin, and travel of the joystick along one of an X-axis and a Y-axis thereof controls travel of the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler in forward and rearward directions, and travel of the joystick along the other of the X-axis and the Y-axis controls travel of the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler in leftward and rightward directions.

The motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler may be a skid steer vehicle.

In an example, the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler is a rigid chassis vehicle comprising a body provided with a first synchronised wheel arrangement on a left-hand side of the body and a second synchronised wheel arrangement on a right-hand side of the body.

In an example the first synchronised wheel arrangement comprises a first pair of wheels associated with a first drive arrangement and the second synchronised wheel arrangement comprises a first pair of wheels associated with a second drive arrangement, and in each of the first and second pair of wheels, one wheel is a drive wheel and the other wheel is a trailer wheel.

In an example, in each of the first and second pair of wheels, a rearmost wheel is the drive wheel and a forwardmost wheel is the trailer wheel. In an example, the first and second drive arrangements are provided with respective battery power supplies.

In an example, the manually operable control device is a joystick with two-axis control and movable from an origin, and travel of the joystick along X and Y-axes thereof controls a degree of difference in the speed of travel of one side of the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler, in a forward or rearward direction, relative to the speed of travel of the other side of the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler, in the forward or rearward direction.

In an example, the manually operable control device is sited towards a rear of the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler.

In an example, the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler carries an attachment, that is movable between a first position and a second position by operation of an actuator system. The attachment may be any suitable attachment, for example a bucket.

In an example, the attachment is removably carried by the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler. This allows selective replacement of one attachment by another.

Further particular and preferred aspects of the invention are set out in the accompanying dependent claims.

Brief Description of the Drawings

The present invention will now be more particularly described, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figures I & 2 show a prior art powered barrow;

Figures 3 to 6 show features of a motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler according to a first example of the invention;

Figures 7 & 8 show features of a motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler according to a second example of the invention; Figure 9 shows a first example wiring diagram of a control circuit arrangement for a control system of a motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler; and

Figure 10 shows a second example wiring diagram of a control circuit arrangement for a control system of a motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler.

Description

At least one example is described below, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in sufficient detail to enable those of ordinary skill in the art to implement the invention of the present application. However, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to any precise example described herein and/or shown in the accompanying drawings and that various changes and modifications can be effected by one skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention.

In the following description, all orientational terms, such as upper, lower, radially and axially, are used in relation to the drawings and should not be interpreted as limiting the scope of the invention unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

The drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, and in some instances the drawings may have been exaggerated or simplified for illustrative purposes only.

Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein are to be interpreted as is customary in the art. In addition, features referred to herein in the singular can number one or more, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Similarly, the terms “comprises”, “comprising”, “includes”, “including”, “has” and/or “having” when used herein, specify the presence of the stated feature or features and do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

Figures I and 2 show a prior art motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler, more specifically a powered barrow 101. The illustrated powered barrow 101 is a Muck-Truck® Power Barrow 4WD (Electric Mini Dumper 4WD (Battery Powered). The powered barrow 101 is articulated and comprises a front portion 102 and a rear portion 103 with a connecting pivot 104 between. The front portion 102 carries a skip/bucket 105, which is movable between a loading position, shown in Figure I and an unloading position, shown in Figure 2, by rotation about a tilt axis 201 under the operation of an actuator system 202 comprising an actuator/ram 203. The powered barrow 101 has two pairs of wheels 106, one associated with an axle (not visible) of the front portion 102 and the other associated with an axle (not visible) of the rear portion 103, the axles being powered axles with direct drive to the wheels (no linkage or chains). The powered barrow 101 is battery powered and comprises a pair of batteries. Left and right handlebars 107, 108 are connected to the front portion 102; the steering of the power barrow 101 is controlled by the front portion 102. The powered barrow 101 includes a control system having: top controls, indicated at 109, a throttle lever I 10 located on the left handlebar 107, and a button, indicated at I I I , located on the right handlebar 108. Specification details and features of operation are set out below.

Specifications Model: Power Barrow 4WD Power: 2 x 12 Volts Battery! 1400 Watts Transmission: Metalrota Electric Transmission Speed: 0 - 4.00 mph Variable Speed Capacity: 8 cu/ft - 800lbs/365kg Carrying Capacity Noise Rating: 5 db

Parking Brake: Electromagnetic Release

Wheels: Front 16x6.50-8, Rear 16x6.50-8 (4 ply tractive)

Dimensions: L64 inches x W30 inches x H38 inches

Weight: 265kg

Traction: 4 Wheel Drive

Running time: Up to 4 hours continuous

Charging time: 80% (4 hrs.), 100% (6 hrs.)

Operation

Getting Started: I. Plug your charger cable into the mains and your machine for a minimum of 4 hours. To Move Forward: I . Switch the on/off button to ON. The switch will illuminate. 2. Select “FORWARD” on the rocker switch on the Top Controls. 3. Grip the handlebars and pull up on the left hand lever. The parking brake will be automatically released and the Power Barrow 4WD will start to move. The more the lever is raised, the faster the Power Barrow 4WD will move.

To Reverse: I. Release the left hand throttle lever to stop the Power Barrow 4WD. 2. Move the rocker switch to “REVERSE”. 3. Grip the handlebars and pull up on the left hand lever. The more the lever is raised, the faster the Power Barrow 4WD will move.

To Stop: Release the throttle lever. The Power Barrow 4WD will slow down and stop. The parking brake will automatically come on. After 10 minutes of inactivity, the controller will power down. The on/off switch must be pushed to off and back on again to activate the Power Barrow 4WD.

To Empty the Skip: To empty the skip, press the EMPTY rocker switch on the Top Controls, then push the button on the right handlebar.

To Return the Skip: To return the skip, press RETURN rocker switch on the Top Controls, then press the button on the right handlebar.

With the design of the Power Barrow 4WD: the power output from the battery system for climbing and/or carrying materials compares well to engine powered machines, the machine has desirable manoeuvrability, the electric tipping of the bucket/skip at the touch of a button provides convenient operation and reduces physical strain and the risk of injury.

The powered barrow 101 has a length 212 that includes a distance 204 that the handlebars 107, 108 extend rearward ly of the rear wheels 106.

A motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 301 according to a first example is shown in Figure 3. The motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 301 is an articulated vehicle and comprises a front portion 302 and a rear portion 303 with a connecting pivot 304 between. The front portion 302 carries a skip/bucket 305, which is movable between a loading position and an unloading position, by rotation about a tilt axis under the operation of an actuator system. The actuator system may be any suitable system, which may comprise any suitable actuator/ram. In an embodiment, the actuator system is activated by a manually operable electronic controller, for example a button or a switch.

It is to be appreciated that a platform, or other suitable alternative materials carrier, may be utilised in place of a skip/bucket. It is to be appreciated also that one or more accessories may be usable with the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler, each of which may be associated with one or more intended functions. In an embodiment, motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler is designed so that a hitch accessory (not shown) is usable with it, for example for hauling a trailer or caravan. This function may be useful in a variety of environments, for example in a boatyard.

The motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 301 has two pairs of wheels 306, one associated with an axle (not visible) of the front portion 302 and the other associated with an axle (not visible) of the rear portion 303. In an embodiment, these axles are powered axles with direct drive to the wheels (no linkage or chains). In an embodiment, the power is provided by a battery power supply arrangement. In an embodiment, the battery power supply arrangement comprises two batteries. In an example, each of the two batteries is a I2v battery. It is to be appreciated that any suitable type of wheel/tyre may be utilised.

In an embodiment, the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 301 has a carrying capacity of up to 1000 kg. In an example, the carrying capacity of the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 301 is up to 500 kg.

The motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 301 incorporates an innovative control system. The motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 301 comprises a drive system, for selectively propelling the machine in a forward direction and a reverse direction, and a steering system, for selectively directing the machine in a left direction and a right direction. As indicated in Figure 3, the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 301 comprises a steering actuator 307 that connectedly extends between the front portion 302 and the rear portion 303. The steering actuator 307 may comprise any suitable actuator/ram. In the shown arrangement, the steering actuator 307 comprises an actuator/ram to one side of the connecting pivot 304.

The motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 301 also comprises an electric motor arrangement for propelling the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 301 in a required direction.

As further indicated in Figure 3, the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 301 comprises a controller comprising a joystick 308.

The joystick 308 is a multi-axis joystick; however, as will be apparent from the following description, only two axes, namely X-axis and Y-axis, are utilised in the innovative steering system. Thus, the two-axis control described hereafter may be achieved using a 3-axis joystick (for example, having a twist knob in addition to X and Y axes) or a 4-axis joystick (for example, having a momentary push button in addition to a twist knob and X and Y axes).

Advantageously, the joystick 308 provides both FORWARD/REVERSE and LEFT/RIGHT steering control.

A schematic of the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 301 is shown in Figure 4. As mentioned, steering actuator 307 connectedly extends between the front portion 302 and the rear portion 303, and each of the front and rear portions 302, 303 is provided with a wheel arrangement. A first pair of wheels 401 is associated with the front portion 302 and a first drive arrangement 402 and a second pair of wheels 403 is associated with the rear portion 303 and a second drive arrangement 404. In this example, the first and second drive arrangements 402, 404 are provided with first and second battery power supplies 405, 406 respectively. Referring now to Figure 5, as indicated, the joystick is movable from a central, neutral position (origin) in either direction along the X-axis and in either direction along the Y- Axis. The joystick provides a manually operable control device that is movable in each of a plurality of directions, including opposite directions along each of perpendicular axes. In this Figure, the cardinal directions are indicated, and the Y-axis is shown orientated North to South (N-S) and the X-axis is shown orientated East to West (E-W).

To move the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 301 forward, the joystick is moved along the Y-axis in a forward direction 501. To move the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 301 backward, the joystick is moved along the Y-axis in a rearward direction 502. The joystick is located on the rear portion 303 of the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 301 and orientated such that, when a user is standing behind the rear portion 303 and facing the front of the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 301 moving the joystick in the forward direction 501 moves the joystick away from the user and, conversely, moving the joystick in the rearward direction 502 moves the joystick towards the user. Further, in use, moving the joystick forward or rearward causes the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 301 to move in that same direction, as discussed also below. This provides intuitive control for the user.

To move the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 301 left, the joystick is moved along the X-axis in a leftward direction 503. To move the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 301 rightward, the joystick is moved along the Y-axis in a right direction 504. When a user is standing behind the rear portion 303 and facing the front of the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 301 moving the joystick in the leftward direction 503 moves the joystick to the left-hand side of the user and, conversely, moving the joystick in the rightward direction 504 moves the joystick to the right-hand side of the user. It is to be appreciated that moving to the left-hand side or right-hand side of the user covers moving to the left or the right of the hand of the user operating the joystick. Further, in use, moving the joystick in the leftward direction or in the rightward direction causes the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 301 to move in that same direction, as discussed also below. This provides intuitive control for the user. Steering of the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 301 in a forward, straight or backward, straight direction is indicated at A, and is achieved by the joystick being moved only along the Y-axis in the respective forward direction 501 or rearward direction 502.

Steering of the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 301 in a forward, left or backward, left direction is indicated at B, achieved by the joystick being moved along both the X and Y-axes, in the respective forward direction 401 or rearward direction 502 and in the leftward direction 503.

Steering of the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 301 in a forward, right or backward, right direction is indicated at C, achieved by the joystick being moved along both the X and Y-axes, in the respective forward direction 501 or rearward direction 502 and in the rightward direction 503.

It is important to recognise that the innovative steering system beneficially avoids the requirement for counter-steering when moving in the reverse direction. The innovative steering system is therefore more intuitive to use, as the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 301 moves in the same direction of travel as the joystick 308. This serves to improve site safety as it reduces the risk of missteering.

In an embodiment, the speed of travel of the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 301 is proportional to the distance of the joystick 308 from the neutral position 505 along the Y-axis. In an example, the further the joystick 308 is moved in the Y-axis away from the neutral position 505, the faster the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 301 will be driven. In an embodiment, a parking brake is automatically applied upon return of the joystick 308 to the neutral position 505.

Referring now to Figure 6, the joystick 308 is located on a panel 601 of the rear portion 303 of the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 301. In an embodiment, the panel 601 is oriented, relative to horizontal, to slope downwardly and rearwardly, at an angle of incline 602. This advantageously allows the run-off of rain, or other liquid or even particulate material, to the rear of the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 301. In an example, the angle of incline 602 is an angle of 25 degrees. It is to be appreciated that the angle of incline 602 may be any suitable alternative angle.

The joystick 308 is located at a height 603 above ground level. In a preferred embodiment, the height 603 is around the height of the waist of a user of the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 301. For example, the joystick 308 may be in the region of 90- 100 cm above ground. The height at which the joystick 308 is positioned is ergonomically beneficial, to improve user comfort and reduce the risk of bodily strain or other harm through repeated/prolonged use.

The joystick 308 has a height 604 that it extends above panel level. In an embodiment, the height 604 is around 50 mm. A user may choose to use any portion of a hand (fingers, thumb, palm) for moving the joystick 308. It is to be appreciated that the joystick 308 may extend at any suitable angle to from the panel 601. In an example, the joystick 308 projects substantially perpendicularly from the panel 601.

The motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 301 incorporates a hand support arrangement, indicated at 605. The function of the hand support arrangement 605 is a steadying or stabilising one and provides an ergonomic support, upon which the hands/wrists of a user can rest, to facilitate controlled operation of the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 301.

The hand support arrangement 605 may comprise any suitable arrangement and may for example comprise a bar or plate that the user can place their hand/wrist on. The hand support arrangement 605 facilitates natural movement of the hand to reduce the risk of strain during/from manipulation of the joystick 308.

The use in the innovative control system of joystick 308 provides for improved comfortable and intuitive operation as outlined above. However, a further advantage arises from the use of a joystick 308 in that the provision for steering the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 301 does not add to the overall length of the machine in the way that the handlebars 107, 108 of the prior art powered barrow 101 do, which beneficially serves to reduce the turning circle of the machine. Referring again to the prior art powered barrow 101 to explain this advantage, the presence of the handlebars 107, 108 adds to the size of the turning circle, and can be a nuisance when seeking to manoeuvre the machine in tight spaces. For example, electric powered barrows may be used in basements (where engine powered machines may not be used) or in other places where room to turn is limited, and often need to be moved along narrow paths and manoeuvred around corners to get them to and from where being put to use. The utilisation of a joystick 308 in the invention functions to minimise the turning circle, which improves site safety and makes use of the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 301 more viable in environments with restricted/limited space.

In an embodiment, electric motors of the control system of the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler used for forward and reverse propulsion are also used for brake application.

Any suitable specific circuit arrangement may be utilised to achieve the operation of the innovative control system, and a controller enabling separate functions to be controlled using a single joystick may have any suitable configuration.

Described herein is a control system for a motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler, more specifically a control system in which four movements of an articulated (pivot steer) pedestrian materials carrier are controller using 2-axes of a multi-axis joystick controller. The joystick may be any suitable type and may be a Hall effect or potentiometer joystick controller. The joystick operates the forward and reverse motors or drive system to propel the machinery in the required direction, and steering left or right with the use of a powered actuator or motor.

To move and steer:

Push the joystick control forward to move forward.

Pull the joystick backward to move in reverse. When moving the joystick along the Y-axis (forward/reverse) steering in the X-axis (left/right) can be effected by moving the joystick in the correct direction. Therefore, to move in the direction of travel:

Forward and left, push the joystick forward and left at the same time.

Forward and right, push the joystick forward and right at the same time.

Reverse and left, pull the joystick back and left at the same time.

Reverse and right, pull the joystick back and right at the same time.

The joystick may be an electric/battery joystick having any suitable shape and size, and any desired appearance. The joystick may be fabricated from any suitable material or materials, using any suitable manufacturing process or processes.

A motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 701 according to a second example is shown in Figure 7. The motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 701 has a rigid chassis (not articulated) and comprises a body 702 having a front 703 and a rear 704.

The body 702 carries an attachment, indicated at 705, that is movable between a first position and a second position by operation of an actuator system, for example a bucket that is movable between different positions, such as ground contacting and non-ground contacting positions. The actuator system may be any suitable system, which may comprise any suitable actuator/ram, and may be operated manually or electronically, and may include one or more pneumatic or hydraulic components. In an embodiment, the actuator system is activated by a manually operable electronic controller, for example a button or a switch. The attachment 705 may however be any suitable type of attachment. The attachment 705 may be removably carried by the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 701. The motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 701 may include an attachment changer mechanism by means of which an attachment can be removed and replaced with a different attachment.

In this example, the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 701 is a skid-steer vehicle, of the type in which wheels provided on each side of the vehicle, which may be wheels of a continuous track system, are synchronised and in which each of the left-side and the right-side drive wheels are able to be driven independently of the other.

The motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 701 has two pairs of wheels 706, a first pair 707 on a left side 708 of the body 702 and associated with a first drive arrangement 708, and a second pair 710 on a right side 71 I of the body 702 and associated with a second drive arrangement 712. The wheels 706 of each pair 707, 710 are synchronised, and each pair 707, 710 is arranged to be driven independently. It is to be understood that the synchronised wheel arrangement on each side of the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 701 may comprise more than two wheels.

In an embodiment, one of the pair of wheels 707, 710 is a drive wheel and the other is a trailer wheel. In this illustrated example, a rearmost wheel 706 of each pair 707, 710 is the drive wheel and a forwardmost wheel 706 is the trailer wheel. In each pair 707, 710, the trailer wheel may be operatively connected to the drive wheel by any suitable arrangement, which in an example comprises a belt. It is to be appreciated that any suitable type of wheel and tyre/track may be utilised.

In an embodiment, power is provided to the first and second drive arrangements 708, 710 by a battery power supply arrangement, which may comprise any number of batteries, of any suitable type, in any suitable arrangement. In this example, the first and second drive arrangements 708, 710 are provided with first and second battery power supplies 713, 714, respectively.

Like the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 301 , motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 701 the incorporates an innovative control system.

As indicated in Figure 7, the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 301 comprises a manually operable control device comprising a joystick 715. The joystick 715 has at least two axes, namely X-axis and Y-axis, which are utilised in an innovative steering system. The joystick 715 advantageously provides both FORWARD/REVERSE and LEFT/RIGHT steering control.

Referring now to Figure 8, as indicated, the joystick is movable from an origin (neutral position) in either direction along the X-axis and in either direction along the Y-Axis.

In this Figure, the cardinal directions are indicated, and the Y-axis is shown orientated North-West to South-East (NW-SE) and the X-axis is shown orientated North-East to South-West (NE-SW).

To move the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 701 forward, the joystick is moved in a forward direction 801 (North). To move the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 301 backward, the joystick is in a rearward direction 802 (South).

The joystick 715 is located on the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 701 and orientated such that, when a user is standing behind the joystick 715, moving the joystick 715 in the forward direction 801 moves the joystick 715 away from the user and, conversely, moving the joystick 715 in the rearward direction 802 moves the joystick towards the user. Further, in use, moving the joystick 715 forward or rearward causes the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 701 to move in that same direction. This is most intuitive for the user.

The directions of travel of the joystick 715 to steer the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 701 forward, straight or backward, straight are indicated at A.

To move the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 701 forward and steer it leftward, the joystick 715 is moved along the Y-axis in a forward and left direction 803 (NW). To move the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 701 rearward and steer it leftward, the joystick 715 is moved along the X-axis in a rearward and leftward direction 804 (SW). The directions of travel of the joystick 715 to steer the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 701 forward and left or backward and left are indicated at B.

To move the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 701 forward and steer it rightward, the joystick 715 is moved along the Y-axis in a forward and right direction 805 (NE). To move the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 701 rearward and steer it rightward, the joystick 715 is moved along the X-axis in a rearward and rightward direction 806 (SE).

The directions of travel of the joystick 715 to steer the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 701 forward and right or backward and right are indicated at C.

When a user is standing behind the joystick 715 and facing the front of the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 701 , if they move the joystick 715 towards the left- hand side 708 of the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 701 , this will steer the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 701 to their left-hand side whether the joystick 715 is being used to move the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 701 forwards or backwards. Similarly, when the user is standing behind the joystick 715 and facing the front of the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 701 if they move the joystick 715 towards the right-hand side 71 I of the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 701 , this will steer the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 701 to their right-hand side whether the joystick 715 is being used to move the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 701 forwards or backwards,

Thus, moving the joystick 715 in a forward or rearward direction causes the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 701 to move in that same direction and moving the joystick 715 in a leftward or rightward direction causes the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 701 to move in that same direction. This provides intuitive control for the user.

The innovative steering system beneficially avoids the requirement for counter-steering when moving in the reverse direction and is therefore intuitive to use, as the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler moves in the same direction of travel as the joystick, and advantageously serves to improve site safety by reducing the risk of missteering.

In an embodiment, the speed of travel of the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 701 is proportional to the extent of travel of the joystick 701 from the neutral position 807. In an example, the further the joystick 715 is moved away from the neutral position 505, along the North-South axis, the faster the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 701 will be driven.

In an embodiment, a parking brake is automatically applied upon return of the joystick 715 to the neutral position 807.

The motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 701 of Figures 7 & 8 may one or more features described previously in relation to the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler 301 of Figures 3 to 6. Thus, for example, the joystick may be located on a panel that is inclined relative to a horizontal plane for encouraging run-off of moisture and/or particulate material to a desired region or side of the vehicle and may be arranged at a position that is ergonomically beneficial for improving user comfort and/or reducing the risk of bodily strain or other harm through repeated/prolonged use. A hand support arrangement may be provided for facilitating natural and stable use of a user’s wrist/hand when operating the joystick.

The joystick may have any suitable shape and size, and any desired appearance. The joystick may be fabricated from any suitable material or materials, using any suitable manufacturing process or processes. The joystick may be provided by any suitable assembly of componentry that provides the same, or equivalent functionality, to that described herein.

Any suitable specific circuit arrangement may be utilised to achieve the operation of the innovative control system, and a controller enabling separate functions to be controlled using a single joystick may have any suitable configuration. Preferably, the controller is a manually operable control device configured for single-handed manipulation. The manually operable control device may be sited towards a rear of the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler.

If the speed of travel of the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler is proportional to the extent of travel of the joystick from the neutral position, and the user loses grip on the joystick after moving the joystick from the neutral position, for example due to an accident or medical incident, biasing of the joystick towards the neutral position will cause the joystick to seek to return to the neutral position, automatically reducing the speed of travel of the vehicle as it approaches the neutral position and causing the vehicle to stop moving upon return to the neutral automatically reducing position.

If the parking brake is automatically applied upon return of the joystick to the neutral position, then if the user has lost grip on the joystick, for any reason, after moving it from the neutral position, biasing of the joystick towards the neutral position will cause the joystick to seek to return to the neutral position, and the automatic application of the parking brake upon return to the neutral position serves to stabilise a potentially hazardous situation of the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler not being under the proper control of the user.

Thus, biasing of the manually operable control device (joystick) towards a neutral position (origin) can be used to provide one or more safety features, for the benefit of a user and others, especially if the vehicle is not being used on level and even ground.

Figure 9 shows a first example wiring diagram 901 of a control circuit arrangement for a control system disclosed herein, which is suitable for use in achieving functionality provided in the first example of Figures 3 to 6.

With the first example 901 , travel of the joystick along one of the X-axis and the Y-axis thereof controls travel of the vehicle in forward and rearward directions, and travel of the joystick along the other of the X-axis and the Y-axis controls travel of the vehicle in leftward and rightward directions. The first example wiring diagram 901 is usable in the first example of Figures 3 to 6, such that travel of the joystick along the Y-axis thereof control drive of the wheels in the forward and rearward directions, and travel of the joystick along the X-axis controls steering in the leftward and rightward directions (by means of rotation around a pivot joint between front and rear portions of the vehicle).

The arrangement of the first example wiring diagram 901 is such that: moving the joystick along the Y-axis in the North direction causes the wheels on both portions of the vehicle to move in a first direction of rotation with the portions of the vehicle at a straight angle, to effect straight line travel in a forward direction, and upon passing through the neutral position in the South direction causes the wheels on both portions of the vehicle to move in a second direction of rotation with the portions of the vehicle at a straight angle, to effect straight line travel in a backward direction; moving the joystick along the Y-axis in the North direction and along the X-axis in the West direction causes the wheels on both portions of the vehicle to move in a first direction of rotation and with the portions of the vehicle at an obtuse angle to the left- hand side to effect travel in a forward and leftward direction; moving the joystick along the Y-axis in the North direction and along the X-axis in the East direction causes the wheels on both portions of the vehicle to move in a first direction of rotation and with the portions of the vehicle at an obtuse angle to the right- hand side to effect travel in a forward and rightward direction; moving the joystick along the Y-axis in the South direction and along the X-axis in the West direction causes the wheels on both portions of the vehicle to move in the second direction of rotation and with the portions of the vehicle at an obtuse angle to the left- hand side to effect travel in a rearward and leftward direction; and moving the joystick along the Y-axis in the South direction and along the X-axis in the East direction causes the wheels on both portions of the vehicle to move in the second direction of rotation and with the portions of the vehicle at an obtuse angle to the right- hand side to effect travel in a rearward and rightward direction. Figure 10 shows a second example wiring diagram 1001 of a control circuit arrangement for a control system disclosed herein, which is suitable for use in achieving functionality provided in the second example of Figures 7 & 8.

With the second example wiring diagram 1001 , travel of the joystick along the X-axis and the Y-axis thereof controls a degree of difference in the speed of travel of one side of the vehicle, in a forward or rearward direction, relative to the speed of travel of the other side of the vehicle, in the forward or rearward direction. The degree of difference can be zero to enable straight line travel, can be greater on the left-hand side to effect steering rightward, or greater on the right-hand side to effect steering leftward.

The arrangement of the second example wiring diagram 1001 is such that: moving the joystick along the North-South axis in the North direction causes the synchronised wheels on both sides to move in a first direction of rotation and at the same speed, to effect straight line travel in a forward direction, and upon passing through the neutral position in the South direction causes the synchronised wheels on both sides to move in the second direction of rotation and at the same speed, to effect straight line travel in a backward direction; moving the joystick along the Y-axis axis in the North-West direction causes the synchronised wheels on both sides to move in the first direction of rotation and with the right-hand wheels at a higher speed than the left-hand wheels, to effect travel in a forward and leftward direction, and upon passing through the neutral position in the South-East direction causes the synchronised wheels on both sides to move in the second direction of rotation and with the left-hand wheels at a higher speed than the right-hand wheels, to effect travel in a backward and rightward direction; and moving the joystick along the X-axis axis in the North-East direction causes the synchronised wheels on both sides to move in the first direction of rotation and with the left-hand wheels at a higher speed than the right-hand wheels, to effect travel in a forward and rightward direction, and upon passing through the neutral position in the South-West direction causes the synchronised wheels on both sides to move in the second direction of rotation and with the right-hand wheels at a higher speed than the left-hand wheels, to effect travel in a backward and leftward direction, A motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler is thus described herein that comprises a control system for controlling the propulsion and steering of the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler, the control system comprising a manually operable control device and being functional to cause the motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler to travel in a direction that the manually operable control device is moved. With the control system, counter steering is avoided.

A control system for a vehicle, in particular a motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler, is thus described herein in which the control system comprises a manually operable control device operatively connected to a control circuit arrangement for controlling steering of the vehicle, the control system functional to cause the direction of travel of the vehicle to match a direction that the manually operable control device is moved. With the control system, counter steering is avoided.

Further, a control system is thus described herein that enables the propulsion and steering of a vehicle, in particular a motored pedestrian materials carrier or hauler, to be controlled by a manually operable control device (allowing single-handed manipulation) and that is functional to cause the vehicle to travel in a direction that the manually operable control device is moved (from an origin/neutral position corresponding to the vehicle being at a standstill). The control system is intuitive to use, which increases safety.

Although illustrative embodiments and examples of the invention have been disclosed in detail herein, with reference to the accompanying drawings, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the precise embodiments and examples shown and/or described and that various changes and modifications can be effected therein by one skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.