US Patent 7320263 Controller and method for controlling a control object

The invention relates to a controller and a method for controlling a maneuverable control object and comprising a control lever (1) designed to be manually maneuvered by an operator into various positions and a console (2) in which the control lever is pivotable about at least two intersecting pivot axes and in which the console is provided with a corresponding number of clamps (3, 4) swivel-mounted about their respective swivel axis (5, 6), which clamps are provided with slots (15, 16) through which the control lever (1) extends and along which the control lever can be led. Each clamp (3, 4) cooperates with its respective detention device (27, 28, 31, 32) for locking the associated clamp (3, 4) in at least one predefined detention position and hence limiting the movement of the control lever.