Combined electrical switch and fluid power control device

Abstract

The disclosed combined fluid power and electrical control device comprises a casing having an operating lever extending through an opening in the casing between the front and rear sides thereof, means at the rear of the casing pivotally supporting the rear portion of the lever so that it is swingable in the opening, the lever having a front manually operable portion at the front of the casing, and fluid power and electrical control means in the casing and operatively connected to the lever for operation in response to swinging movement thereof. Preferably, the control device includes a carriage movable in the casing, mechanical coupling means between the lever and the carriage for moving the carriage in response to swinging movement of the lever, electrical switching means operable by movement of the carriage, and fluid power control valve means operable by the carriage. The switching means may include fixed electrical contact means mounted on the rear wall of a lamp housing secured within the casing. A contactor is preferably mounted on the carriage for selective engagement with the fixed contact means. The carriage may comprise camming means for moving a slide valve member relative to fluid ports in the casing. Cooperative detent means may be provided on the lever and one side wall of the lamp housing which may be secured in the casing by ratchet latching teeth adapted to interlock with abutment elements. The control device may include a second lever having a cam plate portion with a lateral throw for laterally moving a second slide valve member.