A few hundred lift truck accidents are unfortunately reported in San Jose each and every year. Operator training is not sufficient to reduce the number of incidents, suffice to say, though, it is certainly one of the most vital parts. Obviously, the best approach to preventing forklift mishaps is having the organization and business involved, in addition to combining the efforts of everybody in the facility.
Toyota has implemented the SAS or System of Active Stability, that is technology derived from the automotive technology. The SAS could electrically control and monitor lift truck operations. This system is essential for helping decrease the risk of accidents from happening. When the SAS system senses any kind of instability, its advanced sensors signal simultaneously and engage the correct controller. Both the Active Mast Function Controller and the Active Control Rear Stabilizer help to prevent accidents or injuries occurring by adding stability.
Toyota's SAS system is a patented technology which can sense many things that could cause possible 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 forklift's stability footprint changes from triangular in shape to a rectangular shape, resulting in added stability. The outcome is an immediate stability and really lessens the likelihood of a lateral overturn from occurring.
The SAS system engages immediately, when the machine senses the occurrence of instability. Then, the Swing Lock Cylinder is engaged and the rear axle becomes stabilized. This creates the lateral stability the machine needs to help decrease the chance 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 that lead to possible 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 situations from occurring: the rear tilt speed control and the forward tilt angle 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 which will lessen the chances of spilling or forward tipping. These safety mechanisms are in place to help the operator stay safe.
The Rear Tilt Speed Control utilizes the same load sensors and same mast height sensors to govern the mast's reverse tilt speed to half. This greatly reduces the chances of having the forklift tilt backwards or spilling unsecured loads.