Ignition control system

Claim 1

An ignition control system for a material handling implement comprising: a plurality of operatively connected control switches, including a first load control switch, a second interlock control switch, and a third control switch which controls an associated electrical device; ignition switch means having a plurality of selectable positions arranged in a predetermined sequence for directing a master control signal to said control switches, said ignition switch means including a first off position, a second on position wherein said master control signal is directed only to said first load control switch, and a third cranking position wherein said master control signal is further directed to said second interlock control switch whereby energization thereof directs said master control signal to said third control switch for operation of said associated electrical device, said selectable positions being arranged in a predetermined sequence terminating in said cranking position; means operatively connecting said third cranking position of said ignition switch means with an associated starter motor, including neutral indicator switch means for preventing cranking of the starter motor unless a transmission of said implement is in a neutral condition; and means for directing said master control signal for actuating said associated electrical device only upon completion of movement of said ignition switch means through said predetermined sequence, including means for maintaining actuation of said third control switch until said ignition switch means is moved to said off position, said maintaining means comprising latch circuit means operatively associated with said third control switch to allow energization of said third control switch independently of closing of said second interlock control switch to maintain actuation of said third control switch until movement of said ignition switch means to said off position.