Optimization of a roll over protective structure (ROPS) using nonlinear finite element analysis

The use of a conventional Roll Over Protective Structure CROPS) on farm tractors over the years has saved numerous lives and prevented countless injuries. By removing the ROPS, the tractor operators place themselves in unwarranted danger.;This led the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and West Virginia University Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering to the development of a deployable ROPS, which could remain down to aid in required housing space for the tractor and prevent debris from striking the tractor operator while being driven.;This research effort focuses on the application of computer-aided design and analysis to structurally optimize the deployable ROPS and make it lighter. The first objective deals with the development of a finite element model (FEM) of the original deployable ROPS giving analytical results that matched the experimental results. This justified the use of a FEM to optimize the ROPS. Once this was accomplished, a FEM of an optimized deployable ROPS was created and verified as safe by checking energy and deflection results against the SAE J2I94 Static Load Standard. (Abstract shortened by UMI.).

Name thesis:degree_name

MS

Level thesis:degree_level

Thesis

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Year dc:date.available

2000

Author dc:creator

• Gillispie, Adam Michael

Contributors dc:contributor

• Kenneth H. Means.

• Mechanical engineering
• Agricultural engineering

Identifier

https://researchrepository.wvu.edu/etd/1073

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:researchrepository.wvu.edu:etd-2076