Patent attributes
Joystick controllers having one or both of a reference bar and a throat plate. The reference bar substantially surrounds the joystick and is mounted to a control panel, and provides a hand rest surface for an operator while operating the joystick. A top curved surface of the reference bar extends substantially parallel to the path of movement of the joystick in the fore and aft direction of travel. The throat plate has a shape oriented with tapered surfaces and vertices at the furthest fore and aft points to limit turning, caused by movement of the joystick in a side-to-side direction, at higher forward and aft speeds. The joystick can be biased such that, in the neutral position, it is oriented aft of center to allow for a full forward stroke, while limiting rearward stroke.
