Every year in Fairfield, there are a few hundred forklift mishaps which are reported. Although operator training is definitely the most essential component of avoiding workplace mishaps, it is not sufficient to reduce the number of incidences. Obviously, the best method to preventing lift truck accidents is having the organization and business involved, in addition to combining the efforts of everybody in the facility.
Toyota implements the System of Active Stability or SAS. This technology came from automotive technology. The SAS can electrically monitor and control forklift operations. This specific system is essential for helping lessen the chance of mishaps from occurring. Whenever the SAS system senses any kind of instability, its advanced sensors signal simultaneously and engage the correct controller. The Active Control Rear Stabilizer and the Active Mast Function Controller help to avoid accidents or injuries occurring by adding stability.
The patented technology offered by Toyota's SAS system is in place to sense many things that result in potential lateral instability. If and when those conditions are detected, the SAS instantly locks a hydraulic cylinder on the rear steer axle. If this situation occurs, the lift truck's stability footprint changes from triangular in shape to a rectangular shape, resulting in added stability. The outcome is an immediate stability and really reduces the possibility of a lateral overturn from happening.
When the machine senses instability happening, the SAS engages immediately. Then, the rear axle becomes stabilized when the Swing Lock Cylinder is engaged. This creates the lateral stability the machinery requires to help reduce the risk of lateral tip-overs from happening.
Like the active rear stabilizer control, the active mast function controller uses the same technologies. Its function is to sense the numerous factors that may lead to a potential longitudinal instability. Whenever the SAS controller senses possible longitudinal instability from occurring, 2 systems become engaged to help decrease the chances of rearward and forward tip-over accidents from occurring: the rear tilt speed control and the forward tilt angle control.
The Forward Tilt Angle Control will detect load weight and mass height, then automatically override the operator's manual control and limit forward tilt to reduce the possibility of tipping the lift truck forward or spilling a load. These safety mechanisms are in place to help the operator be safe.
The Rear Tilt Speed Control uses the same load sensors and same mast height sensors to govern the mast's reverse tilt speed to half. This really lessens the chances of having the lift truck tilt backwards or spilling unsecured loads.