Simulation and Optimization of Crash Performance of Movable Barrier at Median Strip

Abstract

To better evaluate the crash performance of the guardrail and reduce the number of actual vehicle crash tests, this paper uses mechanical analysis and finite element simulation technology to evaluate the typical movable guardrail and optimize the structure. It's of great significance for improving the crashworthiness of this type of guardrail and enhancing its safety performance. Firstly, the vehicle-barrier mechanical model was established to calculate the vehicle collision force on the barrier. Secondly, the collision force model was used to calculate the collision of a 10-ton truck, and a finite element model of a typical movable barrier was established for a collision simulation. Finally, the wall thickness and column spacing were optimized according to the results. The simulation results show that the maximum lateral dynamic deformation of the barrier was 1,818 mm, which agrees with the actual vehicle test results (1,600 mm). When the wall thickness of the barrier increases by 2 mm, the maximum lateral dynamic deformation was 1,419 mm; When the spacing of strengthened columns was reduced to 15 m, the deformation was 1,364 mm; After optimization, the deformation was reduced by more than 20%, and the crashworthiness of barrier was improved obviously.