Each year within Nova Scotia, there are several hundred lift truck mishaps that are reported. Although operator training is certainly the most important component of avoiding workplace mishaps, it is not enough to lessen the number of incidences. Clearly, the best approach to preventing forklift accidents is having the organization and company involved, in addition to combining the efforts of everybody 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 controlling and monitoring forklift operations. This system is really essential for helping reduce the possibility of accidents from happening. When the SAS system senses any kind of instability, its advanced sensors signal simultaneously and engage the proper controller. The Active Mast Function Controller and the Active Control Rear Stabilizer help to avoid injuries or accidents occurring by adding stability.
The patented technology offered by Toyota's SAS system is in place to detect numerous factors that 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 particular situation happens, the lift truck's stability footprint changes from triangular in shape to a rectangular shape, resulting in more stability. The outcome is an instant stability and really lessens the chance of a lateral overturn from happening.
When the machinery senses instability occurring, the SAS engages instantly. After that, the rear axle becomes stabilized when the Swing Lock Cylinder is engaged. This creates the lateral stability the machine requires to help lessen the chance of lateral tip-overs from occurring.
Like the active rear stabilizer control, the active mast function controller utilizes the same technologies. Its function is to sense the numerous factors which could result in a potential longitudinal instability. Whenever the SAS controller detects possible longitudinal instability from occurring, 2 systems become engaged to help decrease the chances of rearward and forward tip-over accidents from happening: the rear tilt speed control and the forward tilt angle control.
The machines forward tilt angle control could sense the load weight and mast height, the would override the operator's manual control automatically. It will also limit the forward tilt which will lessen the chances of spilling or forward tipping. These safety mechanisms are in place to help the operator be safe.
The Rear Tilt Speed Control uses the same load sensors and same mast height sensors to govern the mast's reverse tilt speed to half. This greatly reduces the possibilities of spilling unsecured cargo or having the forklift tilt backwards.