Abstract
An operator control device (100) for a man-up lift truck (50) includes a handle (112) pivotably arranged on a support structure (102) at a pivot point (104). The support structure (102) is secured to the lift truck (50) such that horizontal and vertical positions of the pivot point (104) are substantially fixed with respect to the lift truck (50) during operation. The handle (112) comprises an upper surface (114) contoured to ergonomically support an operator's hand (22) with an operator's wrist (24) arranged substantially directly above the pivot point (104). The handle (112) may be biased in a neutral position (6B). Clockwise and counter-clockwise rotation of the handle (112) may cause forward driving and stopping/reverse driving of the man-up lift truck (50), respectively. A thumb-operated switch (120) can be arranged on the handle (112) to control lift operations of the man-up lift truck (50). The operator control device (100) provides dynamic stability to an operator (20) and reduces carpal tunnel stresses and the like in the operator's wrist (24).