Development of a a Self-Restoring Impact Attenuator
Develop a low-maintenance vehicle impact attenuator to shield barrier ends or other fixed objects, with the following features:
- Reusable
- Self-restoring
- Minimal Vehicle Rebound
- Non Proprietary Standard Plan
- Lower Cost than Comparable Products
End treatment concept F with foam modules
Click on the following two clips to see LS-DYNA finite element simulations of NCHRP tests 3-30 on the configuration employing the foam energy absorbing modules. Results of the simulations indicate that this material is feasible.
Dynamic testing using a variable mass pendulum
- Maximum impact speed 42 km/h (26 mph) 63.2 kJ energy absorbed, 78% compression
End treatment concept H with elastomeric marine fenders
- Below are simulations of an alternative concept using marine fenders constrained by cables.
The first simulation shows a pickup truck test impacting end-on at 70 km/h. Although the end treatment will be designed for NCHRP test level 3, this simulation was done at test level 2 to save time on processing. Extending to test level 3 is a matter of building a longer model with more fenders or cylinders. The simulation results were acceptable, indicating that the fenders are feasible for this type of impact.
The second simulation shows the pickup truck impacting laterally at 100 km/h. The simulation failed prematurely, but the initial results indicate that these fenders are too flexible to handle the impact and redirect the vehicle. The restraining cables are not adequate, and additional elements will have to be added to the end treatment in order to redirect impacting vehicles.
Quarterly Reports
Expenditures
| Project Expenditures |