A few hundred forklift mishaps are unfortunately reported within Illinois 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 best approach to avoiding lift truck accidents is having the organization and business involved, as well as combining the efforts of each individual in the facility.
Toyota implements the SAS or System of Active Stability. This technology originated from automotive technology. The SAS is capable of electrically controlling and monitoring lift truck operations. This specific system is important for helping lessen the chance of accidents from occurring. Whenever the SAS system senses any type 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 occurring by adding stability.
Toyota's SAS system is a patented technology which is able to sense various things that can 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 stability footprint of the forklift changes to a rectangular in shape from a triangular in shape, resulting in added stability. The outcome is an immediate stability and really lessens the possibility of a lateral overturn from happening.
Once the equipment detects instability occurring, the SAS engages instantly. 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 possibility 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 things that can lead to a potential longitudinal instability. When the SAS controller senses possible longitudinal instability from happening, 2 systems become engaged to help lessen the chances of rearward and forward tip-over accidents from happening: the rear tilt speed control and the forward tilt angle control.
The Forward Tilt Angle Control would detect mast height and load weight, then automatically override the operator's manual control and limit forward tilt to decrease the chance of tipping the forklift forward or spilling a load. All these safety mechanisms are in place to help the operator stay safe.
The Rear Tilt Speed Control utilizes the same mast height sensors and same load sensors to govern the mast's reverse tilt speed to half. This really lessens the chances of spilling unsecured cargo or having the forklift tilt backwards.