Each year within Gilbert, there are a few hundred forklift mishaps that are reported. Although operator training is definitely the most important component of preventing workplace accidents, it is not sufficient to lessen the number of incidences. Obviously, the best method to avoiding forklift mishaps is having the organization and company involved, in addition to combining the efforts of everybody in the facility.
Toyota applies the SAS or System of Active Stability. This technology came from automotive technology. The SAS is capable of electrically controlling and monitoring lift truck operations. This specific system is essential for helping lessen the possibility of accidents from happening. When the SAS system detects any kind of instability, its advanced sensors signal simultaneously and engage the proper controller. Both the Active Mast Function Controller and the Active Control Rear Stabilizer help to prevent accidents or injuries happening by adding stability.
The patented technology offered by Toyota's SAS system is in place to sense numerous factors which result in possible 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 from triangular in shape to a rectangular shape, resulting in an increase in stability. The outcome is an immediate stability and really lessens the chance of a lateral overturn from occurring.
The SAS system engages instantly, once the equipment detects the occurrence of instability. Next, the Swing Lock Cylinder is engaged and the rear axle becomes stabilized. This creates the lateral stability the machine requires to help reduce the risk 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 uses the same patented technology to sense many factors that result in possible longitudinal instability. Whenever the SAS controller senses potential longitudinal instability from happening, 2 systems become engaged to help decrease 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 could detect the mast height and load weight, the would override the operator's manual control automatically. It will also limit the forward tilt that would decrease the chances of forward tipping or spilling. All these safety devices 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 possibilities of having the forklift tilt backwards or spilling unsecured loads.