Industrial Joysticks
Industrial joysticks are invaluable control devices for precisely operating machinery of all sizes. Some utilize switches which are specific to each possible direction and are activated by direct input. In other types of joysticks, the output signal continuously varies with lever deflection.
P3 America carries a wide range of industrial joysticks, including those that utilize modern contactless hall sensors and classic potentiometers. Our industrial joysticks are constructed from high-quality materials and components so you’ll get long-lasting, trouble-free operational life from them.
Types of Industrial Joysticks
Different applications require different tools, and P3 America offers solutions for every need:
- Thumb joysticks, ideal for portable devices or for panel integration,
- Finger joysticks
- Hand joysticks, ideal for use in the harshest operational environments
- Multi-Function joysticks, where proportional output, directional switch output and various pushbuttons are combined.
Our wide product range allows us to serve many different applications. Our highly experienced and knowledgeable engineering team is also capable of designing custom products to ensure that your needs are met.
Industrial Joystick FAQ
We carry hand grip, finger, and thumb joysticks. They’re available in single-axis, dual-axes, triple-axes, and quad+ axes varieties for many types of applications and capabilities. The typical output signal of these joysticks is 0.5-4.5V per axis.
Industrial joysticks perform many functions in many industries, but most of that boils down to controlling machinery. As an example, joysticks might control cranes or winches. They can also drive agriculture equipment or construction machines.
They even have applications for precision work, such as controlling surgical robots or other medical equipment. Security systems, unmanned vehicles, and mobile chairs make up additional use cases.
Most models available from P3 America can be customized upon request. Beyond selecting joystick axes and output signals, many form factors of the device can be adjusted. A quick list of customizable aspects includes the following:
- Shaft
- Custom angles
- Output interfaces
- Handle deflection
- Direction
- Axes of control
- Redundant output
- Pushbutton switches
- Axis driven switches
If you need additional customization options, feel free to contact P3 America.
Ingress protection ratings will vary by model. You can find joysticks ranging from minimal ingress protection to the highest ratings for both dust and water. You can find the IP rating in the specification sheet for each joystick model. This sheet is on the product page for every joystick, and you can download the full data sheet before placing an order.
Each model has a unique design, so safety features will vary. Common features you will find across models include rubber boots and mounting plates for stability, ingress protection to protect electrical components, and resistance ratings tailored to industrial operations.
If you need specific safety features for your application, you can discuss that with P3 America as a customization option.
Every joystick has ergonomic design elements. Depending on the intended application, those elements look considerably different, but the joysticks are designed to provide appropriate gripping and control for the application ranges they support.
An aspect of ergonomics also depends on how the joysticks are installed. Keep in mind that handedness, joystick height, and other factors all contribute to ergonomics. When possible, place joysticks so that the hand inclines roughly 10 degrees relative to the operator’s forearm.
Also, avoid creating too much incline or decline in the elbow when placing the joystick.
These joysticks do not come with specific maintenance recommendations. In general, keeping a joystick clean improves performance. This does not require washing with special chemicals or materials. Instead, remove any debris or buildup from the joystick itself.
If a component wears out, you can contact P3 America for replacement parts to keep the joystick operational.
Each joystick is rated for a different range of applications and carries a different life expectancy. You can find life expectancy ratings in the specification sheet for each joystick.
As an example, the life expectancy of the JB100-ZT-30R3G is greater than 5 million random operations. Comparatively, the life expectancy for the SWSA4 is 200,000 random operations. Check the specifications for any joystick before ordering, and if you need more longevity from a joystick option, you can contact P3 America. We can help you select a joystick with your desired specifications, or we can customize the order to ensure you have the right tool for the job.
P3 America
P3 America is the nation’s leading provider of precision positioning products. For more information about our customization of industrial joysticks or other products and services, contact our team. With over 40 years of industry experience, our specialists are equipped to find the best solutions to your operational needs.