A few hundred forklift accidents are unfortunately reported within Rialto each year. Operator training is not enough to reduce the number of incidents, suffice to say, though, it is definitely among the most vital components. Obviously, the right method to preventing lift truck accidents is having the business and organization involved, in addition to combining the efforts of everybody in the facility.
Toyota has applied the SAS or System of Active Stability, that is technology derived from the automotive technology. The SAS is capable of electrically monitoring and controlling forklift operations. This specific system is important for helping reduce the chance of mishaps from happening. When the SAS system detects any type 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 prevent injuries or accidents occurring by adding stability.
The patented technology provided by Toyota's SAS system is in place to sense many things which cause 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 stability footprint of the forklift changes to a rectangular in shape from a triangular in shape, resulting in an increase in stability. The outcome is an instant stability and greatly lessens the chance of a lateral overturn from happening.
Once the equipment senses instability occurring, the SAS engages immediately. Then, the Swing Lock Cylinder is engaged and the rear axle becomes stabilized. This creates the lateral stability the machine requires to help decrease the chance of lateral tip-overs from happening.
Like the active rear stabilizer control, the active mast function controller utilizes the same technologies. Its function is to detect the many factors which could lead to a potential longitudinal instability. Whenever the SAS controller detects potential longitudinal instability from happening, 2 systems become engaged to help decrease the chances of forward and rearward tip-over accidents from happening: the forward tilt angle control and the rear tilt speed control.
The machinery forward tilt angle control can detect the load weight and mast height, the will override the operator's manual control automatically. It will also limit the forward tilt that will decrease the chances of spilling or forward tipping. These safety mechanisms are in place to help the operator stay safe.
The Rear Tilt Speed Control uses the same load sensors and same mast height sensors to govern the mast's reverse tilt speed to half. This greatly lessens the possibilities of spilling unsecured cargo or having the lift truck tilt backwards.