Agritechnica 2015: RAFI's innovative 3D operating panel for agricultural and construction machinery proves popular

RAFI have presented all-new controls for agricultural and construction machinery at Agritechnika 2015: a GLASSCAPE touchscreen and wear-free joystick are complemented by the new 3D-SCAPE, a capacitive 3D touch input solution (patent pending). Integrated into the armrest of the driver's seat, this ergonomically shaped module features capacitive touch sensors that detect user input in sensitive zones that can be tapped or swiped across. Tactile finger guides enable intuitive and safe control without looking at the panel.

The totally enclosed module cannot be compromised by dirt, humidity or dust ingress and has no mechanical components that require replacement due to wear. A robust GLASSCAPE touchscreen, which can be operated with gloves, is integrated into the front end of the armrest to serve as an alternative user interface and visualization aid. Dedicated external quick access keys facilitate a fast switching between functions and allow for intuitive navigation. An additional touchscreen at the center of the steering wheel provides a live display of all major operating and monitoring options, which can be preselected by the driver via the GLASSCAPE touchscreen. A wear-free JOYSCAPE joystick is used for hydraulic control. RAFI supplies customized versions of these with additional actuators on request.

At the Agritechnica show, RAFI showcased the versatile customization options available for operating panels and JOYSCAPE configurations by presenting a highly complex multi-functional joystick with a control console developed for the current generation of Kässbohrer PistenBully snow plows. Another JOYSCAPE highlight at the exhibition was a detachable, Bluetooth-enabled joystick with programmable keys, which is used in Aeby-Schmidt bulldozers.

Electromechanical components were also featured, including RAFI's robust RAFIX 22 FSR range of control and signal devices for rough environmental conditions as well as various applications for MICON, RACON and RF 15/19 series tactile switches.