The newly developed Sidewinder(TM) control console incorporates an analog drive lever engineered for exceptional mechanical durability and high-resolution signal output. Two custom-designed CAN modules facilitate robust, low-latency data transmission both within the console and across the vehicle’s electronic architecture. The system is fully compliant with functional safety standards (FUSI) and offers enhanced protection against liquids, dust, and environmental exposure. Despite the integration of complex electronics and increased functional density, the design maintains a compact form factor without compromising ergonomics, operational clarity, or system reliability
Preh, in close collaboration with AGCO/Fendt, has engineered an innovative multifunctional armrest based on a modular platform architecture. This design prioritizes optimal ergonomics and intuitive operator interaction.
At the core of the system is a multifunction lever featuring a strategically arranged button layout that minimizes hand repositioning, thereby enhancing operational efficiency. Complementing this is a state-of-the-art rotary encoder, capable of rotational, push, and tilt inputs—enabling precise and rapid navigation through complex menu structures. Function-specific, color-coded button clusters provide clear visual differentiation, ensuring intuitive and safe operation by allowing users to quickly identify and access control groups.
Key system components include a sliding dual-display module and an innovative two-channel drive lever featuring an integrated miniature touch sensor. A freely configurable touch interface with haptic feedback enables direct, tactile confirmation during function selection, enhancing user interaction and precision.
The system is further enhanced by rotary controls with defined tactile detents, ensuring accurate input and intuitive handling. A multifunctional armrest integrates a touchpad and programmable buttons, supporting customizable workflows and streamlined operation.
Proven proportional switches for hydraulic control remain part of the design, ensuring reliable and practical functionality in demanding field applications.
The electrically powered drive lever moves in two axes (X/Y) and is fully programmable. It combines steering, acceleration, and deceleration in a single, intuitive interface—ideal for manual and automated driving. Active, freely configurable haptic feedback allows different driving modes to be simulated realistically and adaptively – from sensitive control at low speeds to progressive counterpressure at higher driving dynamics, similar to adaptive power steering. The characteristic curves for steering and driving behavior can be flexibly stored and accessed via button inputs in the armrest. Driving modes, lanes, force curves, or stop points can be individually customized depending on the intended use. Even classic lever behaviors such as automatic reset can be specifically activated or deactivated. It is also possible to integrate autonomous driving functions.
