CHENGDU GUDAO TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.

Professional control,
engineered with purpose.

Gudao Technology develops engineering control components through two product families: heavy-duty electrical control handles and miniature thumb joysticks for specialist equipment and system integrators.

Explore product families
Two familiesControl handles / thumb joysticks
Four series entriesM12 / M16 / M18 / M25
Engineering-ledTechnology, quality and long-term reliability
GUDAO / CONTROL SYSTEMS

Clear product families for control, engineering discipline and dependable integration.

PRODUCT ARCHITECTURE

Two operating scales,
one engineering logic.

Heavy-duty electrical control handles address primary hand control. Miniature thumb joysticks provide series-based mounting choices for compact control panels and remote interfaces.

PRODUCT FAMILY 01

Heavy-duty electrical control handles

Hand-operated control directions for professional consoles, mobile equipment and specialist operator terminals.

HEAVY-DUTY CONTROL

This family is organized into return-to-center and friction directions. It does not include fingertip control handles. Dimensions, outputs and environmental requirements are confirmed through formal product documentation.

01RETURN

Proportional control · automatic centering

Return-to-Center Control Handle

For precise proportional input where the operator needs a clear neutral position after each action.

  • Heavy-duty handle
  • Return-to-center
  • Industrial use

Engineering documents: provided after project confirmation

02FRICTION

Position hold · steady adjustment

Friction Control Handle

For tasks that benefit from holding a selected position or making continuous adjustment at a dedicated console.

  • Control handle
  • Position hold
  • Dedicated console

Engineering documents: provided after project confirmation

PRODUCT FAMILY 02

Miniature thumb joysticks

M12, M16, M18 and M25 establish product-family entries across different mounting-diameter directions.

THUMB JOYSTICK

M12 is limited to a two-axis return-to-center direction. M16 has a two-axis direction and a version with an integrated press action. M18 and M25 are future planning entries.

01M12

Two-axis return-to-center

M12 Series

A compact two-axis Hall-effect thumb joystick direction for restricted panel space.

  • M12 threaded mount
  • Two-axis
  • Hall effect

Engineering documents: provided after project confirmation

02M16-A

Two-axis return-to-center

M16 Series

A two-axis Hall-effect thumb joystick direction for professional outdoor remotes, mobile equipment and control panels.

  • M16 threaded mount
  • Two-axis
  • Hall effect

Engineering documents: provided after project confirmation

03M16-P

Two-axis + press action

M16 Series

Combines two-axis proportional operation with a press input for confirmation, mode switching or another discrete action.

  • M16 threaded mount
  • Push action
  • Hall effect

Engineering documents: provided after project confirmation

04M18

Future series planning

M18 Series

A reserved product-family entry for a future larger mounting format; not a released standard supply model.

  • M18 threaded mount
  • Future planning
  • Documents in preparation

Series documents: future planning

05M25

Future series planning

M25 Series

A future direction for larger operating interfaces, pending confirmed configuration and formal documentation.

  • M25 threaded mount
  • Future planning
  • Documents in preparation

Series documents: future planning

STANDARD MODEL REFERENCE

See the functional boundary,
then begin engineering confirmation.

This guide identifies currently defined standard product directions only. Dimensions, electrical outputs, environmental limits and supply status remain subject to formal documentation.

Standard directionMounting entryControl functionFirst fit question
M12Two-axis return-to-centerM12 threaded mountCompact two-axis proportional inputIs panel space restricted?
M16-ATwo-axis return-to-centerM16 threaded mountTwo-axis proportional inputIs a larger operator entry required?
M16-PTwo-axis + press actionM16 threaded mountProportional input + press actionShould confirmation or switching happen at the same control point?

M18 and M25 are future-series planning entries and are not shown as released standard supply models.

SELECTION PATH

Start with the task,
then confirm the standard model.

A better control component is not simply the one with more options. It remains clear and stable within the required task, interface and environment.

01

Define the task

Separate proportional operation, position hold and press-to-confirm needs.

02

Confirm mechanics

Define panel opening, thickness, clearance and anti-rotation location.

03

Confirm electrical interface

Align supply, output type, connector and cable definition with the host controller.

04

Confirm environment

Set dust, moisture, cleaning, vibration and life targets as project conditions.

Gudao Technology prioritizes clear standard product directions. Project assumptions should be confirmed through an engineering enquiry before integration.

RESOURCE CENTRE

Make technical communication
clear from the beginning.

The website gives product orientation and an engineering selection framework. Model-specific facts are governed by formal released documents.

01

Product architecture

Start with the two product families, then narrow the project to a standard model direction.

View product families
02

Mechanical fit

Confirm cut-out, panel thickness, available space, fastening and anti-rotation location.

Review mechanical fit
03

Electrical interface

Align supply, output form, cable, connector and host-controller logic before integration.

Review signal topics
04

Environmental boundary

State sealing, cleaning, vibration, temperature and life targets as project inputs.

Review validation topics
05

Engineering documents

Drawings, interface definitions, revision status and validation items should become shared project records.

View engineering path
06

Standard supply route

Use clear standard series for repeat needs; expand only where a common requirement is proven.

View product approach

KNOWLEDGE BASE

Find practical answers
by topic.

Original engineering guidance for common questions about control handles and Hall-effect joysticks. It does not replace model-specific formal documentation.

01Fundamentals · What is the difference between Hall-effect and potentiometer joysticks?

Hall-effect sensing detects position without a sliding electrical contact, while a potentiometer uses a resistive track and wiper. The right solution depends on the signal, environment, life target and host system.

02Fundamentals · When should return-to-center or friction operation be used?

Return-to-center operation suits tasks that require an easily perceived neutral position. Friction operation can suit tasks where an operator-selected position should be held.

03Fundamentals · What do one-axis and two-axis mean?

Axis count describes independent directions or position dimensions. One axis can serve one proportional direction; two axes can express two independent directions as defined by the host-control logic.

04Fundamentals · What is the difference between proportional and switch input?

Proportional input changes continuously with operating position. Switch input represents an on/off or limited-state action. A thumb joystick with a press action can combine both kinds of input at one operating point.

05Selection & installation · Does the same mounting diameter mean direct replacement?

No. Compare panel thickness, anti-rotation geometry, above-panel height, supply, output range, cable and connector. Matching diameter alone does not prove interchangeability.

06Selection & installation · How should M12 and M16 product directions be selected?

Confirm the panel opening, available space, operating clearance and required function first. M12 is the compact two-axis direction; M16 also includes a two-axis direction with a press action.

07Selection & installation · What does the M16 press-action direction solve?

It adds a discrete press input in addition to two-axis operation. This may reduce separate button count and allow confirmation, mode switching or auxiliary control without moving away from the joystick.

08Selection & installation · Why should operating force and centering feel be reviewed?

They affect fatigue, resistance to inadvertent movement and fine-control experience. Evaluate them with equipment vibration, operator posture, glove use and task precision rather than by visual dimensions alone.

09Selection & installation · Does a component IP rating make the whole panel waterproof?

No. The opening, gasket compression, fastening, cable exit and enclosure design determine the final sealing boundary. Review the final assembled system.

10Signals & integration · How should analog, PWM, CAN or USB be chosen?

Begin with the host controller, cable length, electromagnetic environment, diagnostics needs and system architecture. An output not confirmed in formal documentation must not be assumed available.

11Signals & integration · When is redundant output relevant?

Redundant output provides independent channels for the same position signal so a host can cross-check or diagnose a fault. Its need depends on the system architecture and safety objective.

12Signals & integration · Why are cables and connectors part of selection?

Cable length, shielding, grounding, pinout and connector position influence installation, maintenance and signal performance. A matching mechanical body may still be electrically incompatible.

13Signals & integration · What do signal tracking and neutral mean?

Tracking is the way output changes with operating position. Neutral is the reference state at mechanical centre. The host controller must interpret both together with supply, tolerance and software filtering.

14Signals & integration · Why can supply stability matter to an analog system?

In some architectures, output behaviour is related to supply or reference conditions. Supply range, reference method, grounding and interference control should be designed as part of the full electrical system.

15Reliability & environment · What should be specified for vibration and shock?

State the operating condition, mounting direction, exposure profile and required system outcome. Vibration and shock can affect fastening, sealing, wiring and operating feel.

16Reliability & environment · What should be considered near strong magnetic fields?

Keep sensible separation from high-current conductors, motors, magnets and magnetic fixtures, then confirm performance in the actual system.

17Reliability & environment · Why are working and storage temperature reviewed separately?

Working temperature concerns operation under power and use; storage temperature concerns transport or idle conditions. Temperature cycling, condensation and material ageing can also matter.

18Reliability & environment · How should cleaning, salt spray, oil or UV exposure be described?

State the medium, concentration, frequency, exposure time and final mounting location. Broad statements such as “outdoor” are not enough for formal verification.

19Reliability & environment · What do EMC, ESD and RFI concern?

They describe different aspects of electromagnetic conditions. The system objective is that external interference should not cause the control signal to be interpreted incorrectly; final validation belongs at the system level.

20Validation & release · Why is on-equipment validation needed?

Bench testing cannot fully represent panel fit, operating posture, system signals, vibration, contamination and maintenance conditions in the target machine.

21Validation & release · Which documents support volume introduction?

A controlled model and revision, installation drawing, interface definition and agreed validation material should support the volume decision. Website descriptions do not replace formal engineering documents.

22Validation & release · How should a life target be understood?

Life is not a condition-free single number. Operating frequency, load, environment, mounting and test method influence the result. Critical projects should define target, condition and acceptance method together.

23Validation & release · What should be reviewed after a product change?

Any change affecting installation, feel, supply, output, interface, sealing or host software should be assessed against the final system and may require renewed validation.

24Validation & release · What are product pages, selection sheets and formal specifications each for?

A product page introduces a family and typical use. A selection sheet gathers task, installation, electrical and environmental inputs. A formal specification, installation drawing and interface definition support engineering confirmation, validation and volume introduction. They are not interchangeable.

25Validation & release · Can a 3D model, installation drawing and formal specification replace one another?

No. A 3D model helps check space and interference in equipment design, an installation drawing checks cut-out, locating and assembly boundaries, and a formal specification confirms the function and technical conditions of a defined model. Check model and revision for every document; do not infer interface or performance from a generic 3D outline before a project is finalized or purchased.

26Validation & release · Why should drawings, interface definitions and test material have revision control?

Once installation, interface or validation boundaries change, an older document may mislead purchasing, assembly or software integration. Each project should identify the active model and document revision, then reassess verification after a change.

27Validation & release · What makes a project enquiry more useful?

Provide the target equipment, operating task, intended model or available installation space, supply and signal expectations, environmental conditions, validation plan and expected quantity. If information is incomplete, state what is known and what remains to be confirmed rather than assuming a parameter.

28Operator experience · Why distinguish thumb, fingertip and heavy-duty control handles?

They serve different operating spaces and tasks. Thumb control emphasizes compact auxiliary input; fingertip control suits fine, low-occupancy operation; heavy-duty handles address stronger hand control and longer-duration work.

29Operator experience · What is considered in human-machine-interface selection?

Review hand posture, reach, operating force, travel, feedback, button position, handedness, glove use and fatigue. Sample review is most useful in a representative cab, remote or console.

ENGINEERING INTRODUCTION

Not only selecting a part,
but confirming its boundaries.

Before an industrial control component enters a machine, installation, electrical integration, environment and revision control belong on the same engineering path.

A1

Align requirements

Establish the operator task, mechanical interface, electrical signal and environmental inputs.

A2

Confirm documents

Record the candidate model, installation conditions, key functions and validation items.

A3

Validate in application

Assess operator feel, panel fit and system signal performance in the intended equipment.

A4

Introduce volume

Use the confirmed revision as the volume reference and control subsequent change.

Model parameters, validation items and supply scope are confirmed through formal documents agreed for each project.

ENGINEERING APPROACH

Follow the engineering path,
build for long-term reliability.

A control component is both the operator’s entry point and part of the system’s long-term stability. Gudao focuses on installation, sealing, signal behaviour and batch consistency.

Sealing design approach

Structural thinking for dust, moisture and cleaning exposure; final protection performance depends on model configuration and verified conditions.

01

Contactless sensing

Hall-effect sensing may be used in applicable series to support long-cycle proportional-control requirements.

02

Locating approach

Threaded and locating structures may improve repeatability and resistance to rotation when correctly matched to the panel.

03

Series-based supply

Clear product directions reduce unnecessary variation and help stabilize validation, production and delivery.

04

APPLICATIONS

Two product families,
different operating scales.

Heavy-duty electrical control handles focus on primary machinery operation. Miniature thumb joysticks address remotes, ground stations and compact panels.

01 / HEAVY-DUTY CONTROL

Heavy-duty electrical control handles

For the primary operating tasks of construction machinery and mobile equipment.

01

Excavators

Proportional control tasks for primary operating functions, subject to the machine architecture.

02

Loaders

Continuous operator input for travel, loading work and implement controls.

03

Harvesters

Multi-task switching and continuous adjustment in agricultural work.

04

Road equipment

Control tasks such as travel, vibration, water spray and auxiliary functions.

05

Aerial work platforms

Operator interfaces for lift, travel and platform functions.

06

Lifting & handling

An input component for lifting, forklift and material-handling systems.

02 / THUMB JOYSTICK

Miniature thumb joysticks

For compact interfaces that still need clear proportional input or auxiliary control.

01

Professional remotes

Compact two-axis proportional input for outdoor work and industrial equipment.

02

Uncrewed-system ground stations

Payload, view and auxiliary control for professional UAV, UGV and USV systems.

03

Handheld & belly-box remotes

Direction, speed, mode and confirmation input in limited panel space.

04

Equipment grips & compact panels

Integration into a larger handle face or portable control enclosure.

05

Video & gimbal control

Smooth directional input for PTZ, observation and auxiliary tasks.

06

Robotics & test equipment

A compact control entry point for specialist machines and embedded terminals.

Typical directions only; installation, electrical signals, environment and host-control logic must be confirmed for the target machine.

BEFORE PROJECT SELECTION

Confirm the task,
then confirm the product.

To match a product family to an equipment project, prepare the following information.

  • Operating task and intended control style
  • Supply range, signal type and interface
  • Panel opening, thickness and installation space
  • Environmental, sealing and life-validation conditions