Roll over protection structure

A rollover protection ( Roll Over Protective Structure, short ROPS ) is a protective structure for driver's cabs of construction equipment. It consists of additional reinforcing frame and grid elements, which are incorporated into the structure of the cab. In the case of a so-called special event, such as tipping or rollover, the design prevents excessive deformation of the cab. The Construction Equipment Guide is protected from injury because the survival space (so-called deflection - limiting volume, short- DLV) is secured.

This protective structure is in Equipment for use, which are mostly used in earthworks and are at risk of a special event is particularly large. In addition to conventional earthmoving equipment (stand, driving and flat excavator ) also rolling trains and heavy trucks have such a rollover protection. One way the protective structure to expand, the addition of a FOPS structure; in such case the operator's cab is protected against falling objects.

Prior to the approval of such a protective structure, the suitability is determined by means of a prototype. For this purpose, a dependent of the mass force with a quasi- static load increase is applied to a hydraulic cylinder. It is all done in the lateral (side), longitudinal (lengthwise ) and vertical direction. If the ROPS structure, achieving the required force and the required deformation energy, the prototype will be admitted. Furthermore, the component must not enter the ROPS protection device in the DLV 3164 defined by DIN EN.

Norms and Standards

• EN 23164 - Earth-moving machinery - Roll -over protective structures and protective structures against falling objects
• ISO 3471 - Earth-moving machinery - Roll -over protective structures, tests and requirements
• DIN EN 13510 - Earth-moving machinery - Roll -over protective structures, tests and requirements