Each year within New Mexico, there are several hundred forklift accidents which are reported. Though operator training is certainly the most essential part of avoiding workplace mishaps, it is not sufficient to decrease the number of incidences. Obviously, the best method to preventing forklift accidents is having the business and organization involved, as well as combining the efforts of everybody in the facility.
Toyota has implemented the SAS or System of Active Stability, which is technology derived from the automotive technology. The SAS is capable of electrically controlling and monitoring lift truck operations. This system is essential for helping lessen the chance of mishaps from occurring. Whenever the SAS system detects any type of instability, its advanced sensors signal simultaneously and engage the correct controller. Both the Active Control Rear Stabilizer and the Active Mast Function Controller help to avoid injuries or accidents happening by adding stability.
Toyota's SAS system is a patented technology that is able to sense numerous factors which may result in 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 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 greatly reduces the possibility of a lateral overturn from happening.
The SAS system engages immediately, when the machine senses the occurrence of instability. After that, the rear axle becomes stabilized when the Swing Lock Cylinder is engaged. This creates the lateral stability the equipment needs to help reduce the chance of lateral tip-overs from occurring.
Similar to the active rear stabilizer control, the active mast function controller utilizes the same technologies. Its function is to detect the many factors that could result in a possible longitudinal instability. When the SAS controller detects potential longitudinal instability from happening, 2 systems become engaged to help lessen the chances of forward and rearward tip-over situations from occurring: the forward tilt angle control and the rear tilt speed control.
The equipment forward tilt angle control could detect the load weight and mast height, the would override the operator's manual control automatically. It would also limit the forward tilt that would decrease the chances of forward tipping or spilling. All these safety mechanisms are in place to help the operator stay 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 really reduces the possibilities of having the forklift tilt backwards or spilling unsecured cargo.