Several hundred forklift mishaps are sadly reported in Vermont each and every year. Operator training is not enough to decrease the number of incidents, suffice to say, though, it is definitely among the most important parts. Clearly, the best method to preventing lift truck accidents is having the business 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 is derived from automotive technology. The SAS can electrically control and monitor forklift operations. This specific system is very essential for helping decrease the risk of accidents from happening. Whenever the SAS system detects 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 avoid injuries or accidents happening by adding stability.
Toyota's SAS system is a patented technology which could detect many different things that could lead to possible lateral instability. If and when those conditions are detected, the SAS instantly locks a hydraulic cylinder on the rear steer axle. If this specific situation happens, the forklift's stability footprint changes from triangular in shape to a rectangular shape, resulting in more stability. The outcome is an instant stability and really reduces the chance of a lateral overturn from occurring.
When the equipment detects instability happening, the SAS engages immediately. After that, the rear axle becomes stabilized when the Swing Lock Cylinder is engaged. This creates the lateral stability the machinery requires to help lessen the chance of lateral tip-overs from happening.
The active mast function is similar in operation to the active rear stabilizer control. The active mast function controller system utilizes the same patented technology to sense numerous things which result in potential longitudinal instability. When the SAS controller senses possible longitudinal instability from occurring, 2 systems become engaged to help reduce the possibilities 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 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 which would reduce the chances of forward tipping or spilling. 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 decreases the chances of spilling unsecured cargo or having the forklift tilt backwards.