Finite element simulation of a rollover protective structure

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a finite element simulation to validate the strength and energy absorption capacity of a rollover protective structure (ROPS) of agricultural tractors. The test consists of four steps: rear loading, crushing of the rear columns, side loading and crushing of the front columns. In this study a new design of a cabin for narrow tractors was simulated and from it the computational test was run for validation of the cabin. The simulation was performed using ANSYS software, considering the nonlinear characteristics of the materials, since during the test the plastic limit is reached. With the computational results, it was possible to predict the behavior of the structure before the real test. These results were used to propose design and materials changes that significantly improved the energy absorption, making it more efficient. The proposed cabin design reaches the energies and forces required in each step of the computational simulation of the ROPS test and the deformation needed to achieve them does not cause any cabin part to enter the operator survival space inside the cabin.

Design/methodology/approach

In the present study, numerous finite elements simulations have been carried out on a narrow cab for tractors.

Findings

It was conclude that it is possible to virtually test the ROPS, making material and design changes in order to have a more adequate structure before a first real test.

Originality/value

The present study is part of Tiago R. Cesa's Master thesis, an original research work.

Citation

Cesa, T.R. and Oliveira, B.F. (2013), "Finite element simulation of a rollover protective structure", International Journal of Structural Integrity, Vol. 4 No. 2, pp. 165-190. https://doi.org/10.1108/17579861311321672