When Does It Topple?

Interactive Simulator · Topple Test

A loaded crate sits on a ramp that tilts. It stays upright as long as the line of action of its weight falls inside the base. The moment it passes the lower edge, the weight produces a turning effect that tips the crate over. A wide base and a low centre of gravity survive a steeper tilt, so the critical angle is the inverse tangent of half the base width divided by the height of the centre of gravity.

Mission Survive a ramp tilt of 24 degrees. Set the base and the load height, then test. Round 1Streak 0Best 0

Base width 1.4 m

Centre of gravity height 1.0 m

At the test tilt, the crate will:

critical angle35.0°

test tilt24°

critical angle = inverse tangent of (half base ÷ CoG height).