Each year within Canada, there are several hundred lift truck accidents which are reported. Although operator training is definitely the most vital part of avoiding workplace mishaps, it is not enough to decrease the number of incidences. Obviously, the best method to preventing lift truck accidents is having the business and organization involved, in addition to combining the efforts of everyone in the facility.
Toyota has implemented the SAS or System of Active Stability, which is technology derived from the automotive technology. The SAS could electrically control and monitor forklift operations. This specific system is really important for helping lessen the risk of mishaps from happening. Whenever the SAS system detects any kind of instability, its advanced sensors signal simultaneously and engage the proper controller. The Active Mast Function Controller and the Active Control Rear Stabilizer help to avoid accidents or injuries happening by adding stability.
Toyota's SAS system is a patented technology which is able to detect many different things that can lead to 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 happens, the forklift's stability footprint changes to a rectangular in shape from a triangular in shape, resulting in an increase in stability. The result is an immediate stability and really reduces the likelihood of a lateral overturn from happening.
The SAS system engages instantly, when the machinery senses the occurrence of instability. Next, the Swing Lock Cylinder is engaged and the rear axle becomes stabilized. This creates the lateral stability the equipment needs to help decrease the possibility of lateral tip-overs from happening.
The active mast function operates like the active rear stabilizer control. The active mast function controller system uses the same patented technology to detect many things which result in possible longitudinal instability. Whenever the SAS controller senses possible longitudinal instability from happening, 2 systems become engaged to help decrease the possibilities of forward and rearward tip-over situations from occurring: the forward tilt angle control and the rear tilt speed control.
The machines forward tilt angle control can sense the load weight and mast height, the would override the operator's manual control automatically. It will also limit the forward tilt that would lessen the possibilities of spilling or forward tipping. These safety mechanisms are in place to help the operator stay safe.
Using the same load sensors and mast height sensors, the rear tilt speed control is designed to govern the mast's reverse tilt speed to half. This greatly lessens the chances of spilling unsecured cargo or having the lift truck tilt backwards.