Each year within Stockton, there are a few hundred lift truck accidents which are reported. Though operator training is certainly the most vital component of avoiding workplace accidents, it is not sufficient to lessen the number of incidences. Obviously, the right method to preventing lift truck accidents is having the business and organization involved, in addition to combining the efforts of everyone 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 controlling and monitoring forklift operations. This system is important for helping lessen the possibility of accidents from occurring. When the SAS system detects any type of instability, its advanced sensors signal simultaneously and engage the proper controller. The Active Mast Function Controller and the Active Control Rear Stabilizer help to avoid accidents or injuries occurring by adding stability.
Toyota's SAS system is a patented technology which is able to detect numerous things that can result in 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 lift truck'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 greatly reduces the chance of a lateral overturn from occurring.
When the machinery detects instability happening, the SAS engages instantly. After that, the rear axle becomes stabilized when the Swing Lock Cylinder is engaged. This creates the lateral stability the equipment requires to help reduce the chance of lateral tip-overs from happening.
Similar to the active rear stabilizer control, the active mast function controller utilizes the same technologies. Its function is to sense the many factors which 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 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 could detect the mast height and load weight, the will override the operator's manual control automatically. It will also limit the forward tilt that would reduce the chances of spilling or forward tipping. 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 really lessens the chances of having the forklift tilt backwards or spilling unsecured cargo.