Display of Stability Data for Safe Tractor Operation

Supported by NIOSH
Northeast Center for Agricultural Safety and Health
Fiscal Year 5 - October 1, 2005 through September 30, 2006

Links to FY1 | FY2 | FY3 | FY4


Principal Investigators - D.J. Murphy (djm13-at-psu.edu), H.J. Sommer III (hjs1-at-psu.edu)
Tractor Team - A.M. Yoder, J.W. Hilton, R.S. Thomas, R.G. Bock, D. Aducci, J. England
Sensor Team - C.I. Nichol
Videos -

Although roll-over protection systems (ROPS) are now mandated for farm tractors, tractor overturns cause approximately 400 deaths per year in the United States. This project will focus on new cost-effective combinations of sensors and microprocessors to detect impending side overturn, overturn of tractors with attached implements and operator display ergonomics and psychology.

Extended Abstract

Radio Control Tractor
TN65 01 TN65 02 TN65 03

New Holland TN65, 5675 lbm, 47 HP, four wheel drive

Rear Overturn Tests - August 15, 2006

Rear 01 Rear 02

Safe hitch below axle, no overturn, mpgS - 01 | 02 | 03 | 04

Overturn, mpgS - 01 | 02 | 03 | 04

Active intervention, no overturn, mpgS - 01 | 02 | 03 | 04

Side Overturn Tests - August 15, 2006

Side 01 Side 02

mpgS - 01 | 02 | 04