Each year within Pennsylvania, there are a few hundred forklift mishaps which are reported. Although operator training is definitely the most vital component of avoiding workplace accidents, it is not enough to decrease the number of incidences. Clearly, the best method to preventing forklift accidents is having the company and organization involved, as well as combining the efforts of everybody in the facility.
Toyota implements the SAS or System of Active Stability. This technology originated from automotive technology. The SAS is capable of electrically monitoring and controlling forklift operations. This system is really essential for helping lessen the possibility of mishaps from happening. When the SAS system senses any type of instability, its advanced sensors signal simultaneously and engage the proper controller. Both the Active Control Rear Stabilizer and the Active Mast Function Controller help to prevent accidents or injuries happening by adding stability.
Toyota's SAS system is a patented technology that is able to detect numerous things that can lead to 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 forklift's stability footprint changes to a rectangular in shape from a triangular in shape, resulting in more stability. The outcome is an immediate stability and really reduces the possibility of a lateral overturn from happening.
The SAS system engages immediately, once the equipment detects the occurrence of instability. Then, the Swing Lock Cylinder is engaged and the rear axle becomes stabilized. This creates the lateral stability the machine requires to help lessen the risk of lateral tip-overs from happening.
Like the active rear stabilizer control, the active mast function controller uses the same technologies. Its function is to sense the numerous things which may lead to a possible longitudinal instability. When the SAS controller senses potential longitudinal instability from occurring, 2 systems become engaged to help lessen the possibilities of rearward and forward tip-over accidents from occurring: the rear tilt speed control and the forward tilt angle control.
The machines forward tilt angle control is able to sense the load weight and mast height, the would override the operator's manual control automatically. It would also limit the forward tilt that will decrease the possibilities of forward tipping or spilling. These safety devices are in place to help the operator be 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 decreases the chances of having the lift truck tilt backwards or spilling unsecured cargo.