Each year in Kent, there are several hundred lift truck mishaps that are reported. Though operator training is certainly the most important part of avoiding workplace accidents, it is not enough to lessen the number of incidences. Clearly, the best method to preventing lift truck accidents is having the organization and company involved, in addition to combining the efforts of everyone 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 system is very important for helping lessen the risk of accidents from happening. When the SAS system detects any type of instability, its advanced sensors signal simultaneously and engage the correct controller. Both the Active Mast Function Controller and the Active Control Rear Stabilizer help to avoid injuries or accidents occurring by adding stability.
Toyota's SAS system is a patented technology which could sense many things which could lead to 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 lift truck's stability footprint changes from triangular in shape to a rectangular shape, resulting in added stability. The outcome is an immediate stability and greatly reduces the likelihood of a lateral overturn from happening.
Once the equipment detects instability happening, the SAS engages immediately. 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 possibility of lateral tip-overs from happening.
Similar to the active rear stabilizer control, the active mast function controller utilizes the same technologies. Its function is to detect the many things that can lead to a possible longitudinal instability. Whenever the SAS controller detects possible longitudinal instability from happening, 2 systems become engaged to help reduce the chances of forward and rearward tip-over situations from occurring: the forward tilt angle control and the rear tilt speed control.
The Forward Tilt Angle Control would sense mast height and load weight, then automatically override the operator's manual control and limit forward tilt to decrease the possibility of tipping the lift truck forward or spilling a load. These safety devices are in place to help the operator be safe.
Using 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 greatly lessens the chances of spilling unsecured cargo or having the forklift tilt backwards.