Several hundred forklift accidents are sadly reported in Fresno every year. Operator training is not enough to lessen the number of incidents, enough to say, though, it is definitely one of the most important components. Clearly, the best method to avoiding lift truck accidents is having the company and organization involved, as well as combining the efforts of everyone in the facility.
Toyota has applied the SAS or System of Active Stability, which is technology derived from the automotive technology. The SAS can electrically monitor and control forklift operations. This system is very vital for helping lessen the risk of mishaps from happening. Whenever the SAS system detects any type of instability, its advanced sensors signal simultaneously and engage the correct controller. The Active Mast Function Controller and the Active Control Rear Stabilizer help to prevent accidents or injuries occurring by adding stability.
Toyota's SAS system is a patented technology that can sense many factors which could 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 particular situation occurs, the stability footprint of the lift truck changes to a rectangular in shape from a triangular in shape, resulting in added stability. The outcome is an immediate stability and greatly reduces the possibility of a lateral overturn from occurring.
When the machine detects instability occurring, the SAS engages instantly. Then, the Swing Lock Cylinder is engaged and the rear axle becomes stabilized. This creates the lateral stability the equipment requires to help lessen 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 utilizes the same patented technology to detect numerous things which result in potential longitudinal instability. Whenever the SAS controller senses potential longitudinal instability from happening, 2 systems become engaged to help lessen the possibilities of forward and rearward tip-over accidents from occurring: the rear tilt speed control and the forward tilt angle control.
The Forward Tilt Angle Control would detect load weight and mass height, then automatically override the operator's manual control and limit forward tilt to decrease the possibility of tipping the lift truck forward or spilling a load. All these safety mechanisms are in place to help the operator stay safe.
The Rear Tilt Speed Control utilizes the same mast height sensors and same load sensors to govern the mast's reverse tilt speed to half. This really lessens the possibilities of spilling unsecured loads or having the forklift tilt backwards.