A few hundred forklift mishaps are unfortunately reported in Montana each and every year. Operator training is not sufficient to lessen the number of incidents, suffice to say, though, it is definitely among the most important parts. Clearly, the right method to avoiding forklift mishaps is having the organization and business involved, in addition to combining the efforts of everybody in the facility.
Toyota applies the SAS or System of Active Stability. This technology originated from automotive technology. The SAS can electrically monitor and control lift truck operations. This system is important for helping reduce the risk of mishaps from occurring. When the SAS system senses 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 injuries or accidents happening by adding stability.
Toyota's SAS system is a patented technology which can sense many things that can 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 specific situation happens, the stability footprint of the lift truck changes from triangular in shape to a rectangular shape, resulting in more stability. The result is an instant stability and greatly lessens the likelihood of a lateral overturn from occurring.
The SAS system engages immediately, when the machine detects the occurrence of instability. Then, the rear axle becomes stabilized when the Swing Lock Cylinder is engaged. This creates the lateral stability the machinery needs to help decrease the risk 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 sense the numerous factors that could lead to a potential longitudinal instability. When the SAS controller detects possible longitudinal instability from occurring, 2 systems become engaged to help decrease the possibilities of rearward and forward tip-over accidents from happening: the rear tilt speed control and the forward tilt angle 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 reduce the chance of tipping the lift truck forward or spilling a load. These safety mechanisms are in place to help the operator stay safe.
Using 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 reduces the possibilities of spilling unsecured loads or having the forklift tilt backwards.