Roll-Over Protective Structure (ROPS)
A reinforced cab or safety frame structure that protects the space occupied by the operator against crushing when the tractor overturns. It is a safety structure required on tractors within the scope of type approval and is designed to absorb the energy of an overturn; the protection only performs its intended function when used together with the seat belt.
ROPS does not prevent an overturn; it leaves a space in which the operator can remain uncrushed during the overturn. If the seat belt is not fastened, the operator can be thrown outside this space, so the structure's protection becomes ineffective.
- A foldable safety frame is lowered only for low clearances and for a short time, then raised again.
- No welding, drilling or cutting is done on a ROPS; the energy absorbing behaviour of the structure is spoiled.
- A ROPS that has been through an overturn is sent for the manufacturer's assessment even if it looks sound to the eye.
When installing an electronic linkage retrofit kit, no holes must be drilled in the ROPS and no connection other than a cable tie must be made to it. For in-cab modules and controls, areas of the body outside the ROPS or the original mounting points are used.
The context where this term is used: Converting a tractor hydraulic lever to electronic control