Each year in Eugene, there are several hundred lift truck accidents that are reported. Although operator training is definitely the most essential component of preventing workplace accidents, it is not enough to reduce the number of incidences. Obviously, the best approach to preventing lift truck mishaps is having the company and organization 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 monitoring and controlling lift truck operations. This specific system is important for helping lessen the possibility of mishaps from happening. Whenever the SAS system senses any kind of instability, its advanced sensors signal simultaneously and engage the proper controller. Both the Active Mast Function Controller and the Active Control Rear Stabilizer help to avoid injuries or accidents happening by adding stability.
The patented technology offered by Toyota's SAS system is in place to sense numerous factors which result in 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 stability footprint of the forklift changes to a rectangular in shape from a triangular in shape, resulting in added stability. The result is an immediate stability and really reduces the chance of a lateral overturn from happening.
The SAS system engages instantly, when the equipment detects the occurrence of instability. Next, the rear axle becomes stabilized when the Swing Lock Cylinder is engaged. This creates the lateral stability the machinery requires to help decrease the chance of lateral tip-overs from happening.
Like the active rear stabilizer control, the active mast function controller utilizes the same technologies. Its function is to detect the many things which may result in a possible longitudinal instability. When the SAS controller senses possible longitudinal instability from happening, 2 systems become engaged to help reduce the chances of forward and rearward tip-over situations from occurring: the rear tilt speed control and the forward tilt angle control.
The machines forward tilt angle control can detect the mast height and load weight, the would override the operator's manual control automatically. It would also limit the forward tilt which would decrease the possibilities of spilling or forward tipping. These safety devices are in place to help the operator stay 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 decreases the possibilities of having the forklift tilt backwards or spilling unsecured cargo.