Control grips act as the direct interface between man and machine, and the design of the grip often defines the usability and success of the overall system. Daco’s MG1 modular control grip has been designed with versatility in mind.

To ensure short delivery times, these painted aluminium grips are held in stock, pre-drilled to take a selection of trimmer switches, toggle switches, buttons, blanking plates or force-operated miniature thumbsticks. Drawing from our list of standard options you can determine which combination of functions is installed in the grip and where each is positioned. Up to three thumb-operated functions can be specified in addition to a finger-operated trigger.

The resulting multi-function hand controller is particularly suited for use in adverse conditions. We use a proprietary textured surface finish that is robust and has sufficient body to insulate against thermal shock. It also ensures that the grip is comfortable, even after long periods of use.

The MG1 is cast using an aluminium alloy to avoid the high tool cost, flammability and toxicity problems associated with plastic grips. The use of aluminium also ensures the device has a low mass – an important factor when it is used in an environment that may have high vibration levels.

The MG1 can either be panel-mounted as a fixed grip or mounted on a Daco displacement joystick base. The decision as to which arrangement is most appropriate is dependent upon environment, application, available space and personal preference. Perhaps the most important advantage of fixed grips with integral thumbsticks is that the actions of holding and operating the device are virtually independent. This is particularly significant in applications where random operator movement, caused by an unstable operating platform, can be translated into unwanted control outputs. As fixed grips are stationary, the risk of flexing wires introducing fatigue failures or hysteresis is removed. Fixed grips also require less below-panel depth when it comes to installation.

Panel-mounted fixed grips are most commonly used with force-operated joysticks. This includes cursor control on vehicle-mounted or airborne equipment, control of helicopter-mounted surveillance equipment and fly-by-wire controls. On displacement joysticks they are common for use with simulators, trainers and remotely-operated vehicles.