Each year in California, there are a few hundred forklift mishaps that are reported. Although operator training is certainly the most vital part of avoiding workplace mishaps, it is not sufficient to decrease the number of incidences. Clearly, the right approach to avoiding forklift mishaps is having the organization and company involved, as well as combining the efforts of everyone in the facility.
Toyota implements the System of Active Stability or SAS. This technology is derived from automotive technology. The SAS is capable of electrically controlling and monitoring lift truck operations. This specific system is very essential for helping reduce the risk 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 prevent injuries or accidents happening by adding stability.
Toyota's SAS system is a patented technology that is able to sense many different factors that could cause possible lateral instability. If and when those conditions are detected, the SAS instantly locks a hydraulic cylinder on the rear steer axle. If this particular situation happens, the stability footprint of the lift truck changes from triangular in shape to a rectangular shape, resulting in more stability. The outcome is an immediate stability and really reduces the possibility of a lateral overturn from happening.
When the equipment senses instability occurring, the SAS engages immediately. Next, the Swing Lock Cylinder is engaged and the rear axle becomes stabilized. This creates the lateral stability the machinery needs to help reduce the risk of lateral tip-overs from occurring.
The active mast function is similar in operation to the active rear stabilizer control. The active mast function controller system uses the same patented technology to detect many factors which lead to potential longitudinal instability. Whenever the SAS controller detects possible 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 Forward Tilt Angle Control would detect mast height and load weight, then automatically override the operator's manual control and limit forward tilt to lessen the possibility of tipping the lift truck forward or spilling a load. 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 forklift tilt backwards or spilling unsecured cargo.