Several hundred lift truck accidents are unfortunately reported in Berkeley each and every year. Operator training is not enough to reduce the number of incidents, suffice to say, though, it is certainly one of the most essential components. Clearly, the right approach to avoiding lift truck mishaps is having the organization and business 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 monitoring and controlling lift truck operations. This specific system is vital for helping reduce the chance of accidents from happening. 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 prevent injuries or accidents happening by adding stability.
Toyota's SAS system is a patented technology which could detect numerous factors that can cause potential lateral instability. If and when those conditions are detected, the SAS immediately locks a hydraulic cylinder on the rear steer axle. If this particular situation occurs, the stability footprint of the lift truck changes from triangular in shape to a rectangular shape, resulting in added stability. The result is an instant stability and greatly lessens the possibility of a lateral overturn from occurring.
When the machinery senses instability occurring, the SAS engages instantly. Then, the Swing Lock Cylinder is engaged and the rear axle becomes stabilized. This creates the lateral stability the equipment requires to help reduce the chance of lateral tip-overs from happening.
The active mast function is similar in operation to the active rear stabilizer control. The active mast function controller system utilizes the same patented technology to detect many things that lead to potential longitudinal instability. Whenever the SAS controller detects potential longitudinal instability from occurring, 2 systems become engaged to help lessen the chances of rearward and forward tip-over situations from happening: the forward tilt angle control and the rear tilt speed control.
The machines forward tilt angle control is able to 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 decrease the possibilities of spilling or forward tipping. These safety mechanisms are in place to help the operator be safe.
Utilizing 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 really decreases the possibilities of spilling unsecured cargo or having the forklift tilt backwards.