Universal modular control system for mobile material distribution apparatus

A universal modular control system for controlling the operation of a mobile material distribution apparatus having an associated vehicle, the control system comprising:

• a universal user console including a display device for visually displaying information concerning the operation of the control system and the controlled material distribution apparatus, and further including at least one input device for inputting information into the control system;
• said user console capable of functioning as a user interface for use in controlling any of a plurality of different material distribution apparatus;
• a first control module including a first microprocessor, a plurality of input ports, and a plurality of output ports, the input and output ports being arranged in pairs, each of the pairs being adapted for connection to at least one actuator and at least one sensor on the material distribution apparatus to form a feedback loop, each of the pairs being electrically connected to the first microprocessor such that the first microprocessor can communicate with the at least one actuator and the at least one sensor in each feedback loop, the first microprocessor having an associated memory for storing programmed instructions to permit the first microprocessor to control the operation of any of a plurality of different material distribution apparatus via the feedback loops;
• a ground speed sensor for providing the control system with information reflecting the speed of the vehicle;
• and,
• a link connecting the user console to the control module to permit communication of input information to the control module and of display information to the user console.