TOPS (Tip-Over-Protective-Structure) tests simulate the tipping of a vehicle to the side. If a 360° rollover of a vehicle (simulated by a ROPS test) cannot be assumed due to the design but tipping is possible, then a TOPS test is required.
The manufacturer has to decide depending on a risk analysis. Typical vehicles for TOPS tests are hydraulic excavators, but also self-propelled grape harvesters and plot combines.
To test the protective device, the test loads are applied by hydraulically operated test cylinders. The test is a static test. The energy absorption and the resistance against the required test Forces are checked.
The test is passed if nothing has penetrated the deflection limiting volume (“survival zone for the driver”) during the test process and no breakage of the structure has occurred.