Display of Stability Data for Safe Tractor Operation

Supported by NIOSH
Northeast Center for Agricultural Safety and Health
Fiscal Year 1 - October 1, 2001 through September 30, 2002

Links to FY2 | FY3 | FY4 | FY5


Principal Investigators - D.J. Murphy (djm13-at-psu.edu), H.J. Sommer III (hjs1-at-psu.edu)
Tractor Team - J.W. Hilton, A.M. Yoder, S.C. Sweeney, R.S. Thomas, R.G. Bock, J.D. Uncles
Sensor Team - C.I. Nichol, J.E. Jaar
Videos - Jason Hilton, Randy Bock, Matt Lindenberg

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
Major Accomplishments FY1
Slides for NIOSH Tractor Workshop 02/13/03

Umbilical Tractor

Ford 2080, 3580 lbm, 36 HP, rear wheel drive

Radio Control Tractor

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

Side Overturn (~ 3 mph)


MPEGs

PSU Ag Progress Days, August 20, 2002 - Safety Demonstration

Overturn - 1 | 2 | no seat belt

Overturn (onboard camera) - 1 | 2 | 3 | 4

Near miss (onboard camera) - 1 | 2

Recovery (onboard camera) - 1

Full 360 Degree Roll


MPEGs

Oblique view | Front view | Onboard camera

Rear Overturn


MPEGs

Correct hitching to drawbar (onboard camera) - 1

Incorrect hitching above axle - 1 | 2 | no seat belt

Incorrect hitching above axle (onboard camera) - 1 | 2 | 3

Umbilical Tractor


MPEGs

Side overturn - 1 | 2

Rear overturn - 1 | 2