Every year in West Virginia, there are several hundred forklift mishaps that are reported. Although operator training is definitely the most essential component of preventing workplace mishaps, it is not enough to lessen the number of incidences. Obviously, the right method to avoiding forklift accidents is having the organization and business involved, as well as combining the efforts of each and every individual in the facility.
Toyota has implemented the System of Active Stability or SAS, that is technology derived from the automotive technology. The SAS is capable of electrically monitoring and controlling forklift operations. This particular system is really essential for helping lessen the possibility of accidents from happening. Whenever the SAS system detects any kind of instability, its advanced sensors signal simultaneously and engage the correct controller. The Active Mast Function Controller and the Active Control Rear Stabilizer help to avoid accidents or injuries occurring by adding stability.
Toyota's SAS system is a patented technology which is able to sense various factors which can result in possible lateral instability. If and when those conditions are detected, the SAS immediately locks a hydraulic cylinder on the rear steer axle. If this specific situation happens, the forklift's stability footprint changes to a rectangular in shape from a triangular in shape, resulting in added stability. The result is an instant stability and greatly reduces the likelihood of a lateral overturn from happening.
When the machine senses instability happening, the SAS engages instantly. Next, the rear axle becomes stabilized when the Swing Lock Cylinder is engaged. This creates the lateral stability the machine requires to help reduce the possibility of lateral tip-overs from occurring.
The active mast function is similar in operation to the active rear stabilizer control. The active mast function controller system utilizes the same patented technology to detect numerous factors that lead to potential longitudinal instability. When the SAS controller senses possible longitudinal instability from happening, 2 systems become engaged to help reduce the possibilities of rearward and forward tip-over accidents from occurring: the forward tilt angle control and the rear tilt speed control.
The Forward Tilt Angle Control would sense load weight and mass height, then automatically override the operator's manual control and limit forward tilt to decrease the chance of tipping the lift truck forward or spilling a load. These safety devices are in place to help the operator stay safe.
Using 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 greatly decreases the chances of spilling unsecured loads or having the forklift tilt backwards.