Tipover

Tipover refers to the event in which an object loses stability and falls over, tipping from its upright position. In physics terms, tipping occurs when the line of action of gravity falls outside the object's base of support, creating a tipping moment that overcomes any restoring moment. The likelihood of tipping depends on factors such as the object's center of gravity, base geometry, loading, and external forces like wind, movement, or impact.

Tipover can occur in a variety of contexts. In everyday life, tall or heavy furniture, appliances, and display units can tip if loaded unevenly, not anchored, or subjected to a push. In transportation and industrial settings, vehicles, carts, and machinery may tip due to sudden maneuvers, uneven loading, or tipping hazards on ramps and slopes. In maritime and architectural contexts, stability is analyzed with concepts such as metacentric height or sway moments to assess the risk of capsizing or toppling under external forces.

Prevention focuses on increasing stability and reducing destabilizing forces. Approaches include lowering the center of gravity, widening the base of support, and securing objects to walls or floors with anti-tip devices. Proper loading practices, restraints for loads on moving equipment, and avoiding top-heavy configurations also help. In homes and workplaces, manufacturers and safety guidelines promote tipover resistance through design and anchoring, especially for furniture and appliances used around children.

See also: stability, toppling, tipping point, safety standards.