Every year within Elk Grove, there are several hundred lift truck accidents which are reported. Though operator training is definitely the most important component of preventing workplace accidents, it is not enough to reduce the number of incidences. Obviously, the right method to avoiding forklift accidents is having the business and organization involved, as well as combining the efforts of each person in the facility.
Toyota implements the SAS or System of Active Stability. This technology came from automotive technology. The SAS can electrically monitor and control forklift operations. This system is important for helping decrease the possibility of accidents from occurring. When the SAS system detects any kind 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 injuries or accidents occurring by adding stability.
Toyota's SAS system is a patented technology that could detect many different things that could 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 lift truck changes to a rectangular in shape from a triangular in shape, resulting in more stability. The result is an instant stability and greatly lessens the possibility of a lateral overturn from happening.
The SAS system engages immediately, once the equipment senses the occurrence of instability. Next, the rear axle becomes stabilized when the Swing Lock Cylinder is engaged. This creates the lateral stability the machinery needs to help reduce 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 sense the many factors which may lead to a potential longitudinal instability. When the SAS controller detects potential longitudinal instability from occurring, 2 systems become engaged to help reduce the chances of rearward and forward tip-over situations from occurring: the forward tilt angle control and the rear tilt speed control.
The equipment forward tilt angle control could detect the load weight and mast height, the would override the operator's manual control automatically. It would also limit the forward tilt that will lessen the possibilities of forward tipping or spilling. These safety devices are in place to help the operator be safe.
Utilizing the same mast height sensors and load sensors, the rear tilt speed control is designed to govern the mast's reverse tilt speed to half. This really reduces the chances of having the forklift tilt backwards or spilling unsecured cargo.