Importance

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Abstract

A working machine includes a steerable, power driven ground engaging structure and a hydraulic actuator operated working part for performing working operations, and a control apparatus which includes a mounting, a steering device for providing steering to the ground engaging structure, and a manually operable control device for controlling operation of a hydraulic control valve which in use selectively provides pressurised hydraulic fluid to the at least one actuator to operate the working part, the steering device including a steering wheel which includes an outer rim part which is rotatable relative to the mounting, within an envelope of rotation, about an axis, to turn a steering column which is coaxial or substantially co-axial with the axis of rotation of the steering wheel, the steering column being operatively connected to the ground engaging structure to effect steering of the machine when turned, and the control apparatus further including a hub structure which is located within or substantially within the boundary of rotation of the outer rim part of the steering wheel, and a controller, the hub structure being fixed relative to the mounting and the manually operable control device being provided by the hub structure and in use when operated, providing a signal to the controller which responds by operating the hydraulic control valve.

First Claim