Several hundred forklift accidents are unfortunately reported within Peoria each year. Operator training is not sufficient to reduce the number of incidents, suffice to say, although, it is definitely among the most essential components. Obviously, the best approach to preventing lift truck mishaps is having the company and organization involved, in addition to combining the efforts of everyone in the facility.
Toyota has implemented the SAS or System of Active Stability, that is technology derived from the automotive technology. The SAS is capable of electrically monitoring and controlling lift truck operations. This specific system is important for helping lessen the possibility of accidents from happening. When the SAS system detects any kind of instability, its advanced sensors signal simultaneously and engage the correct controller. 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 that is able to sense various factors which may lead to potential 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 forklift's stability footprint changes from triangular in shape to a rectangular shape, resulting in added stability. The result is an immediate stability and greatly reduces the possibility of a lateral overturn from happening.
Once the machinery detects instability occurring, the SAS engages immediately. Then, the Swing Lock Cylinder is engaged and the rear axle becomes stabilized. This creates the lateral stability the machinery needs to help decrease the chance 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 detect the many factors which could result in a possible longitudinal instability. Whenever the SAS controller detects potential longitudinal instability from occurring, 2 systems become engaged to help reduce the possibilities of rearward and forward tip-over accidents from happening: the rear tilt speed control and the forward tilt angle control.
The machinery forward tilt angle control could detect the load weight and mast height, the will override the operator's manual control automatically. It would also limit the forward tilt which would decrease the possibilities of forward tipping or spilling. These safety devices are in place to help the operator stay safe.
Using the same load sensors and mast height sensors, the rear tilt speed control is designed to govern the mast's reverse tilt speed to half. This greatly decreases the possibilities of having the lift truck tilt backwards or spilling unsecured loads.