Every year in Salem, there are a few hundred lift truck accidents which are reported. Though operator training is certainly the most important part of preventing workplace accidents, it is not enough to reduce the number of incidences. Obviously, the best method to preventing forklift accidents is having the business and organization involved, in addition to combining the efforts of each person 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 forklift operations. This system is essential for helping reduce the chance of mishaps from happening. 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 avoid accidents or injuries happening by adding stability.
Toyota's SAS system is a patented technology which is able to sense many things which can result in potential lateral instability. If and when those conditions are detected, the SAS immediately locks a hydraulic cylinder on the rear steer axle. If this specific situation occurs, the lift truck's stability footprint changes from triangular in shape to a rectangular shape, resulting in more stability. The result is an immediate stability and really reduces the likelihood of a lateral overturn from occurring.
When the machinery senses instability happening, the SAS engages instantly. After that, the Swing Lock Cylinder is engaged and the rear axle becomes stabilized. This creates the lateral stability the machine needs to help decrease the possibility of lateral tip-overs from happening.
The active mast function operates like the active rear stabilizer control. The active mast function controller system uses the same patented technology to sense numerous things that lead to possible longitudinal instability. Whenever the SAS controller senses possible longitudinal instability from occurring, 2 systems become engaged to help lessen the possibilities of rearward and forward tip-over situations from occurring: the forward tilt angle control and the rear tilt speed control.
The machines forward tilt angle control can sense 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 chances of spilling or forward tipping. These safety mechanisms 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 greatly reduces the possibilities of having the forklift tilt backwards or spilling unsecured cargo.