Crash Test and Evaluation of Temporary Wood Sign Support System for Large Guide Signs

The objective of this research task was to evaluate the impact performance of a temporary wood sign support system for large guide signs. It was desired to use existing TxDOT sign harware in the design to the extent possible. The full-scale crash testing followed the procedures recommended in the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials' (AASHTO) Manual for Assessing Safety Hardware (MASH). In MASH Test 3-60, the Temporary Wood Sign Support System for Large Guide Signs readily activated by fracturing in various designed locations. The fractured posts did not penetrate or show potential for penetrating the occupant compartment, and did not present hazard to others in the area. The sign panel came to rest on the roof of the vehicle with resulting occupant compartment deformation of 2.5 inches. Occupant risk factors were within the limits specified in MASH. In MASH Test 3-61, the TxDOT Large Temporary Wood Sign Support readily activated by fracturing in various designed locations. The fractured posts did not penetrate or show potential for penetrating the occupant compartment, and did not present hazard to others in the area. No occupant deformation or intrusion occured. Occupant risk fators were within the preferred limits specified in MASH. The Temporary Wood Sign Support System for Large Guide Signs performed acceptably for MASH Tests 3-60 and 3-61. Accompanying wind load charts and foundation embedment depths were developed and presented for all acceptable temporary wood support sizes deemed crashworthy based on the tests performed under this project and previous research efforts. These design charts and tables can be used to develop standard detail sheets to aid designers in the selection of appropriate support details for a given sign.