Each year in Spokane, there are several hundred forklift mishaps that are reported. Although operator training is definitely the most essential part of avoiding workplace accidents, it is not sufficient to reduce the number of incidences. Obviously, the best approach to preventing lift truck mishaps is having the organization and company involved, as well as combining the efforts of everyone in the facility.
Toyota applies the SAS or System of Active Stability. This technology is derived from automotive technology. The SAS is capable of electrically controlling and monitoring lift truck operations. This specific system is very vital for helping lessen the chance of mishaps from occurring. When the SAS system senses any type of instability, its advanced sensors signal simultaneously and engage the proper controller. The Active Control Rear Stabilizer and the Active Mast Function Controller help to avoid injuries or accidents happening by adding stability.
Toyota's SAS system is a patented technology which could sense many different things which may 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 stability footprint of the lift truck changes from triangular in shape to a rectangular shape, resulting in added stability. The result is an immediate stability and really lessens the likelihood of a lateral overturn from occurring.
The SAS system engages immediately, when the equipment senses the occurrence of instability. 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 utilizes the same technologies. Its function is to detect the numerous factors which can lead to a potential longitudinal instability. When the SAS controller senses potential longitudinal instability from occurring, 2 systems become engaged to help lessen the possibilities of rearward and forward tip-over accidents from occurring: the rear tilt speed control and the forward tilt angle control.
The equipment forward tilt angle control could detect the mast height and load weight, the would override the operator's manual control automatically. It would also limit the forward tilt which will lessen the chances of forward tipping or spilling. All these safety mechanisms are in place to help the operator stay safe.
The Rear Tilt Speed Control uses the same mast height sensors and same load sensors to govern the mast's reverse tilt speed to half. This really reduces the chances of spilling unsecured cargo or having the forklift tilt backwards.