Finite Element Modeling and Simulation Analysis of a Portable Roll-Up Sign

Abstract

Although a large number of crash tests have been performed between passenger cars and rigid fixed traffic signs, the number of real tests focusing on crashworthiness of portable roll-up signs is still limited. Because a standard, portable roll-up sign contains at least three kinds of dissimilar materials, such as steel for the base, fiberglass for the batten, vinyl for the sign, and because the sign’s configuration is more complicated than a rigid fixed sign, it is important to simulate the behavior of portable roll-up signs in collision. In this paper, a fine-mesh finite element model precisely representing the portable roll-up sign was created and used together with a car model to simulate the process of impact with 0 and 90 degree orientation. The simulation was performed using LS-DYNA software. Techniques for creating the finite element model were discussed. Afterwards this finite element model, being validated and verified through real tests, can be used for parametric and/or robust design.