Finite Element Simulation of a Strong-Post W-Beam Guardrail System

Computer simulation of vehicle collisions has improved significantly over the past decade. With advances in computer technology, nonlinear finite element codes, and material models, full-scale simulation of such complex dynamic interactions is becoming ever more possible. In this study, an explicit three-dimensional nonlinear finite element code, LS-DYNA, is used to demonstrate the capabilities of computer simulations to supplement full-scale crash testing. After a failed crash test on a strong-post guardrail system, LS-DYNA is used to simulate the system, determine the potential problems with the design, and develop an improved system that has the potential to satisfy current crash test requirements. After accurately simulating the response behavior of the full-scale crash test, a second simulation study is performed on the system with improved details. Simulation results indicate that the system performs much better compared to the original design.