Control method and device for powered equipment

A control system for a piece of powered equipment having a motor, the control system comprising:

• at least one contactless optical sensor provided in an interface of the control system, the contactless optical sensor adapted to measure a distance separating at least one target located in interface area and the contactless optical sensor;
• an electronic control board cooperative with the contactless optical sensor so as to control the motor based on at least one signal from the contactless optical sensor, said electronic control board configured to establish a first control of a main function of the piece of powered equipment when a signal from the contactless optical sensor is established for a measured distance within a first range of distance and to establish a control for an additional function of the piece of powered equipment when a signal from the contactless optical sensor is established for a measured distance greater than the first range of distances, the additional function being different than the main function;
• a control element positioned in the interface area;
• and
• a position sensor linked to said control element, said positioned sensor connected to said electronic control board, wherein said electronic control board is configured to establish the first control of the main function of the powered equipment from a signal from the contactless optical sensor or the position sensor.