Crown Equipment Corporation

Wayne David Lockyer

Eugene G Bruns

Nita Louise Watercutter

A control handle support and valve linkage assembly for use in a lift truck or like vehicle is provided. The assembly includes a first stationary bracket and a second bracket that pivots relative to the first bracket. At least one, and preferably an array of control handles are coupled to the second bracket. A seat deck on the lift truck includes an actuator for engaging a member projecting from the second bracket. When the seat deck is in the closed position, the second bracket is kept in a first, retracted position, and hence, the control handle(s) are kept close to and within the comfortable reach of an operator seated in the adjacent seat. Then, when the seat deck is opened, such as when the operator desires to access a battery compartment or the like, the second bracket, and hence, the control handle(s) automatically and simultaneously pivot or rotate relative to the first stationary bracket. This moves the control handles out of the path of travel of the seat deck to avoid creating any interference. A linkage is also provided for linking each control handle to a valve and a corresponding switch. Together, the valve and switch regulate fluid flow to control one or more aspects of the operation of a carrying assembly or like structure associated with the lift truck.

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Winchester, United Kingdom

Wayne David Lockyer