Vehicle crash test simulation of roadside hardware using LS-DYNA: a literature review

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A great deal of progress has been achieved during the past several years in integrating advanced non-linear finite element programs into the design and analysis phases of roadside hardware. Most of the progress in this area can be attributed to the pioneering work by Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) along with extensive financial support by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and other institutions. There is still, however, much work remaining before analytical methods achieve their full potential in roadside safety research. The computer software tools are available and computing capabilities continue to improve at a rapid pace making analysis of complex systems possible. The application of Finite Element Analysis (FEA) has evolved from relatively simple impacts to highly realistic interaction problems. With continued progress, FEA is expected to play a vital role in the design and analysis of new generation cost-effective roadside hardware in coming years. This literature review attempts to summarise the major achievements and key developments on crash test simulation of roadside hardware over the past years and inform readers about the current state of knowledge in roadside hardware simulation. Successful crash test simulations on different applications are reviewed based on roadside hardware type. Specific models used in the virtual crash tests are explained. Due to the nature of the paper, many of the details that go into the successful simulations are not discussed herein. References for those details previously discussed in the literature are provided.