ROPS Design for Pre-ROPS Tractors

Abstract

SUMMARY Tractor overturns are the leading cause of agricultural fatalities in the United States. Many of these fatalities could be prevented if the tractor was equipped with a rollover protective structure (ROPS). Of the estimated 4.8 million tractors, 2.8 million are considered pre-ROPS tractors (tractors that were designed prior to ROPS availability).1 This project involves the design, construction and testing of ROPS for pre-ROPS tractors. Testing was successfully conducted with Ford and John Deere pre-ROPS tractors. Current testing involves a Farmall pre-ROPS tractor. The ASAE Standard S519 is utilized for the testing. Static longitudinal (rear), transverse (side) and vertical (top) tests are conducted in addition to field upset testing. Tractors are equipped with remote controls to perform side and rear field upset tests. Axle housing drawings have been obtained from the tractor manufacturer to assist the ROPS and axle mounting design process. Commercialization of the ROPS is in progress with a ROPS ...