Calibration of a command device in control system

Abstract

A method of generating a calibrated command signal in a control system including a command device is disclosed herein. The command device (e.g., a control lever) is moveable between predefined positions (e.g., detents). A sensing circuit generates a signal representing the position of the command device. The method includes the steps of calibrating the command device and then generating a calibrated command signal based upon the command device position. The calibrating step includes moving the command device to the predefined positions, converting the sensed position signals into calibration values and storing these values. The generating step includes moving the command device to an operating position, converting the sensed position signal into an operating position signal, and generating the calibrated command signal based upon the operating position signal and the calibration values. In one embodiment, the method is used to read the control levers for auxiliary valves in an auxiliary hydraulic system. The control lever is moveable between extend, neutral, retract and float positions, which causes the calibrated command signal to represent maximum extend, neutral, maximum retract and float flow rates, respectively. When the control lever is between the neutral position and either the extend or the retract position, the calibrated command signal is a proportional signal.