Object-sensing bumper extension

An object-sensing bumper extension for a lift truck that can be operated in a walk-along mode, said bumper extension comprising:

• a bumper extension body formed from a durable yet flexible material, said bumper extension body configured to be connectable to a bumper of the lift truck that can be operated in the walk-along mode;
• a non-contact sensor arranged in an opening of the bumper extension body and configured to detect encroachment within an impact danger area that is located immediately in front of and near the sides of the bumper extension body while the lift truck is operated in the walk-along mode;
• and
• an impact detection sensor configured to detect a physical impact with the bumper extension body when the lift truck is operated in the walk-along mode.

A method of performing a reaction operation of a lift truck operated in a coast control mode, said method comprising:

• operating the lift truck in the coast control mode;
• receiving an encroachment signal from a non-contact sensor in response to encroachment by an operator of the lift truck within an impact danger area of the lift truck;
• receiving an impact signal from an impact sensor in response to an impact between the lift truck and the operator of the lift truck;
• and
• initiating a reaction operation of the lift truck in response to either the encroachment signal, the impact signal, or both, wherein the reaction operation comprises one or more of braking the lift truck and reversing the lift truck.