Every year in Canada, there are several hundred forklift mishaps which are reported. Although operator training is definitely the most essential component of preventing workplace mishaps, it is not enough to lessen the number of incidences. Obviously, the right method to preventing forklift mishaps is having the company and organization involved, as well as combining the efforts of everybody in the facility.
Toyota implements the System of Active Stability or SAS. This technology originated from automotive technology. The SAS is capable of electrically monitoring and controlling lift truck operations. This particular system is really important for helping lessen the risk of mishaps from occurring. Whenever the SAS system senses any type of instability, its advanced sensors signal simultaneously and engage the correct controller. Both the Active Control Rear Stabilizer and the Active Mast Function Controller help to prevent accidents or injuries occurring by adding stability.
The patented technology offered by Toyota's SAS system is in place to sense many factors that 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 specific situation happens, the forklift's stability footprint changes from triangular in shape to a rectangular shape, resulting in an increase in stability. The outcome is an instant stability and greatly reduces the likelihood of a lateral overturn from happening.
The SAS system engages instantly, once the machine detects the occurrence of instability. After that, the Swing Lock Cylinder is engaged and the rear axle becomes stabilized. This creates the lateral stability the machine requires to help decrease the chance of lateral tip-overs from occurring.
The active mast function operates like the active rear stabilizer control. The active mast function controller system utilizes the same patented technology to sense numerous things which lead to possible longitudinal instability. Whenever the SAS controller senses potential longitudinal instability from happening, 2 systems become engaged to help decrease the possibilities of rearward and forward tip-over situations from happening: the forward tilt angle control and the rear tilt speed control.
The machines forward tilt angle control can sense the mast height and load weight, the would override the operator's manual control automatically. It will also limit the forward tilt which would lessen the chances of spilling or forward tipping. All these safety mechanisms are in place to help the operator stay 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 decreases the chances of spilling unsecured loads or having the forklift tilt backwards.