Each year in Roseville, there are a few hundred forklift accidents which are reported. Although operator training is certainly the most essential component of avoiding workplace accidents, it is not enough to decrease the number of incidences. Obviously, the best approach to avoiding lift truck mishaps is having the company and organization involved, in addition to combining the efforts of everybody in the facility.
Toyota applies the SAS or System of Active Stability. This technology is derived from automotive technology. The SAS can electrically control and monitor forklift operations. This system is vital for helping reduce the chance of mishaps from occurring. Whenever the SAS system detects any kind 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 avoid accidents or injuries occurring by adding stability.
Toyota's SAS system is a patented technology which can detect numerous factors that could cause 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 occurs, the forklift's stability footprint changes to a rectangular in shape from a triangular in shape, resulting in more stability. The result is an immediate stability and really reduces the likelihood of a lateral overturn from happening.
The SAS system engages immediately, once the machine senses the occurrence of instability. Then, the Swing Lock Cylinder is engaged and the rear axle becomes stabilized. This creates the lateral stability the machinery needs to help reduce 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 many things which lead to potential longitudinal instability. When the SAS controller senses possible longitudinal instability from occurring, 2 systems become engaged to help reduce the chances of rearward and forward tip-over accidents from occurring: the forward tilt angle control and the rear tilt speed control.
The equipment forward tilt angle control could sense the mast height and load weight, the will override the operator's manual control automatically. It will also limit the forward tilt which will decrease the chances of spilling or forward tipping. These safety devices are in place to help the operator be safe.
The Rear Tilt Speed Control utilizes the same load sensors and same mast height sensors to govern the mast's reverse tilt speed to half. This really reduces the chances of having the lift truck tilt backwards or spilling unsecured cargo.