Evaluation of Roadside Safety Devices Using Finite Element Analysis

In recent years, roadside safety research efforts have focused on the utilization of computer simulation technology to gain a better understanding of the behavior of roadside safety devices when subjected to vehicular impact. The objective of this project was to utilize the resources of the Center for Transportation Computational Mechanics to support Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) roadside safety research. The selection of roadside safety features to be modeled and simulated under this project was made in consultation with TxDOT personnel. Priority was given to modeling systems in support of ongoing, TxDOT - sponsored roadside safety projects. When design problems were identified through simulation or crash testing, researchers examined various design modifications to address the deficiencies and improve impact performance of the system. The results of the simulations were used to develop recommended improvements for full-scale crash testing and potential implementation. Three distinct roadside safety issues were investigated with the aid of computer simulation. An alternative to the popular T6 tubular W -beam bridge rail was developed to address problems with vehicle instability observed in full-scale crash testing. A retrofit connection to TxDOT's grid-slot portable concrete barrier was developed to limit dynamic barrier deflections to levels more practical for work zone deployment. Finally, crashworthy mow strip configurations were developed for use when vegetation control around guard fence systems is desired to reduce the cost and risk associated with hand mowing.