IRSST - Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail

Application of computer simulations of forklifts and the behaviour of forklift operators to the prevention of lateral rollovers

Abstract

Forklift rollovers can cause serious to fatal injuries. However, manufacturers have no tools at their disposal for designing a forklift that ensures the operator’s safety. After noting that none of the existing means of protection that were studied had been validated conclusively, and after rejecting experimental tests, which are much too costly, complex and of limited use, the authors concluded that an approach using computer modeling and simulation would provide a promising avenue. From this perspective, they developed analytical models of a forklift, its operator and of several safety devices to simulate rollovers at low and high speed. The CARISSIMO computer interface that they developed has already allowed preliminary simulations to be created, enabling them to prepare the experimental validation planned as a second step. Ultimately, these models will allow digital simulations for answering more specific questions from the CSST and from workplace professionals, but will also be used for evaluating the effectiveness of other existing safety devices, either existing or under development, such as airbags.

Additional Information

Type: Project
Number: 0098-0260
Status: Completed
Year of completion: 2002
Team:
  • René Benoît (IRSST)
  • Michel Gou (Polytechnique Montréal)
  • Carl-Éric Aubin (Polytechnique Montréal)
  • Marina Koutchouk (Polytechnique Montréal)