Joystick control for golf buggy

A farmer has a spinal injury resulting in central cord syndrome. The panel was asked if it could adapt a golf buggy to steer using a joystick so that he could go around the farm to check his sheep.

A scheme was designed for a power operated steering system to the buggy, using a joystick, a servocontrol system and a linear actuator. A central armrest was installed to mount the joystick and the engine choke moved to the armrest. The forward/reverse lever was converted to operate by foot instead of hand. The steering device is powered from the battery and this is charged as the buggy is driven. A sliding door enclosure has been fitted to enable the farmer to use the buggy in less favourable weather.

The farmer is now able to visit farm buildings along a farm track and go around the fields to visit his sheep.

(North West Wales)