ASABE Technical Library - Abstract

Click on “Download PDF” for the PDF version or on the title for the HTML version.
If you are not an ASABE member or if your employer has not arranged for access to the full-text, view access and subscription options

Evaluation of All-Terrain Vehicle Static Stability Using Finite Element Analysis and Tilt Table Testing

Published by the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers, St. Joseph, Michigan www.asabe.org

Citation:  2026 ASABE Annual International Meeting  2600027.(doi:10.13031/aim.202600027)
Authors:   Payam Farhadi, Farzaneh Khorsandi
Keywords:   All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV), Static Stability, Finite Element Modeling (FEM), Tilt Table Test, Rollover Risk

Abstract. All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) are used in various sectors, including agriculture, industry, military operations, and search-and-rescue operations. However, their inherent design, characterized by a relatively narrow track width and a high center of gravity, makes them susceptible to instability, particularly on uneven surfaces such as agricultural fields. Several factors, including attachments, suspension design, and tire flexibility, can influence ATV stability and contribute to rollover incidents under real-world conditions. To examine the influence of these parameters, a finite element model (FEM) of the Honda TRX420FA6 was developed based on its actual geometric dimensions. The investigation assesses rollover risk under various configurations, including the presence or absence of a rider and the addition of solid attachments on the front and rear racks. Stability was evaluated using the tilt table angle (TTA) and tilt table ratio (TTR) as key indicators. The solid model of the ATV was first developed in SolidWorks, and the finite element analysis was conducted using Abaqus. The mechanical properties of the tires, such as elastic modulus and damping coefficient, were measured experimentally for different inflation pressures, while the spring stiffness and damping characteristics of the suspension dashpots were experimentally measured and incorporated into the model. All other structural components of the ATV were modeled as rigid bodies to enhance computational efficiency while maintaining the required level of accuracy. The FEM results were validated against data obtained from experimental tilt-table tests, and the Average Percentage Error (APE) for simulation and experimental test was between 2-10% and will be used for other parameters to reduce the need for extensive field testing by providing a less expensive and more efficient method of evaluating ATV stability.

(Download PDF)    (Export to EndNotes)