Performance Evaluation of a Virtual Test Model of the Frame-Type ROPS for Agricultural Tractors Using FEA

Abstract

In this study, a model of the frame-type ROPS (rollover protective structure) for an agricultural tractor was developed using FEA (finite-element analysis). Various boundary conditions were applied as input variables to replace the actual test of the ROPS with a virtual test. An optimization study was carried out based on the boundary conditions of the bolt, considering the ROPS part directly mounted on the tractor and the folding connection to the ROPS. The results of the virtual test were compared with those of the actual test, and the error was determined. The maximum error of the evaluation model was 7.0% for the force applied on the load and 9.6% for the corresponding ROPS deformation. All mounting bolts of the ROPS required modeling. In particular, we had to establish free boundary conditions for axial rotation to implement the folding connection. In addition, a simulation of the frame-type ROPS was conducted according to the mesh size. A convenient simulation time was obtained for a mesh size of 8~10 mm. Compared with the actual test, the accuracy was the highest with a mesh size of 6~8 mm.