Abstract:
This study uses the finite element program LS-DYNA to analyze the performance of various curb-and-guardrail systems impacted by a 2000 kg pickup truck. The objective is to understand how curb type, placement, and impact speed affect the barrier's ability to safely contain and redirect the vehicle. The analysis is based on a validated G4(1S) guardrail model and a C2500R pickup truck model, examining three impact conditions based on NCHRP Report 350 Test Levels 2 and 3. The finite element models collect data including sequential snapshots of the impact, acceleration-time histories, yaw-, pitch-, and roll-time histories, and w-beam tensile force-time histories. This data is then used to qualitatively and quantitatively assess vehicle stability, barrier performance, and occupant risk factors. The study acknowledges the limitations of the current finite element model in simulating guardrail rupture due to mesh density constraints but uses tensile force data to assess potential failure. The results of the simulations are synthesized to develop guidelines for the design and installation of curb-and-guardrail systems on high-speed roadways, with the recognition that these simulation results should be considered a tool for performance assessment and may require validation through full-scale crash tests.
