Every year within Arkansas, there are several hundred forklift accidents which are reported. Although operator training is certainly the most vital part of avoiding workplace accidents, it is not sufficient to lessen the number of incidences. Obviously, the right approach to preventing forklift mishaps is having the organization and business involved, in addition to combining the efforts of each and every person in the facility.
Toyota implements the SAS or System of Active Stability. This technology is derived from automotive technology. The SAS can electrically control and monitor forklift operations. This system is vital for helping lessen the possibility of accidents from occurring. Whenever the SAS system senses any type 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 prevent accidents or injuries happening by adding stability.
The patented technology provided by Toyota's SAS system is in place to sense many factors which cause potential lateral instability. If and when those conditions are detected, the SAS immediately locks a hydraulic cylinder on the rear steer axle. If this situation happens, the stability footprint of the forklift changes to a rectangular in shape from a triangular in shape, resulting in an increase in stability. The result is an immediate stability and greatly lessens the chance of a lateral overturn from occurring.
Once the machine detects instability happening, the SAS engages instantly. Then, the Swing Lock Cylinder is engaged and the rear axle becomes stabilized. This creates the lateral stability the machinery 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 sense many things which result in possible longitudinal instability. When the SAS controller senses potential longitudinal instability from happening, 2 systems become engaged to help lessen the possibilities of rearward and forward tip-over situations from occurring: the forward tilt angle control and the rear tilt speed control.
The machinery forward tilt angle control can sense the load weight and mast height, the will override the operator's manual control automatically. It would also limit the forward tilt that would lessen the chances of forward tipping or spilling. These safety devices are in place to help the operator be safe.
Utilizing the same mast height sensors and load sensors, the rear tilt speed control is designed to govern the mast's reverse tilt speed to half. This really decreases the chances of having the forklift tilt backwards or spilling unsecured loads.