Why modular operator environments are becoming a strategic tool for off-highway OEMs

Off-highway operator environments must accommodate increasingly advanced controls, diagnostics, assistance systems and connectivity, even in compact machines.

At the same time, OEMs need to shorten development cycles and manage complexity across product families, driving a shift from application-specific components to scalable platforms.

01 Building on a proven concept

Modular armrests combine configurable controls, elec-tronic integration and vehicle-independent architectures, reducing engineering effort without sacrificing application-specific flexibility.

elobau’s 225MA Midi Armrest has demonstrated this approach across numerous machine applications, avoiding a complete new development for each vehicle programme as customer requirements continue to evolve.

02 When less space does not mean less functionality

Compact and mid-sized machines increasingly need the advanced functionality of larger platforms despite limited installation space.

OEM feedback highlighted demand for a compact, configurable and economically viable operator environment rather than a large dual-joystick armrest, establishing the need for a reusable platform instead of a one-off solution.

03 Extending the platform philosophy

The 150MA Mini Armrest transfers the proven strengths of the Midi platform into a compact format.

Designed for space-constrained applications, it retains electronic integration, modularity and machine-specific configurability on a shared technical foundation, balancing standardisation with customisation.

04 A platform for next-generation HMIs

The Mini serves as a configurable carrier for elobau’s latest HMI technologies, including the JE joystick ecosystem, new buttons and roller designs.

RGB LEDs can visually communicate functions, modes and machine states, while modular joystick, layout and in-terface options enable tailored user experiences with less integration effort across vehicle programmes.

05 Ready for future machine concepts

To support growing automation, advanced functions and safety demands, the Mini is designed for functional safety requirements up to PLd and for future operating concepts.

Its robust construction is suited to the demanding outdoor conditions of construction, agriculture and material-handling machinery.

06 Looking ahead

As machine complexity rises, modular platforms help OEMs reduce engineering effort, accelerate time-to-market and retain flexibility across machine families and product generations.

The evolution from the Midi to the Mini reflects this industry trend: modular concepts complement bespoke solutions by extending proven, future-ready architectures to more applications and simplifying complexity management across entire machine platforms.

Inspired by our customers. Developed by elobau

We develop and manufacture innovative, customer-specific sensor and operator control solutions in a sustainable manner and with a focus on the common good.

With a vertical integration of up to 90%, we can quickly respond and adapt to individual customer requirements both in our production and in our in-house inspection lab, ensuring fast and simple processes.

Safety First!

Functional Safety in the Robust Joystick JE.

At a glance

10 Reasons for a change