Analysis and evaluation of a redesigned 3" x 3" slipbase sign support system using finite element simulations

Abstract Improvement in computer hardware and Finite Element (FE) software have made it possible to simulate complex phenomenon such as the behaviour of automobiles and roadside hardware during crashes. In this paper, the performance of a modified 3″×3″ slibase sign support system is evaluated using Finite Element simulations. The first task of the study consisted of developing an accurate finite element model of the new 3″×3″ slipbase. This is achieved by using full-scale tests that were conducted on an 8″×8″ slipbase at 32 and 96 km/hr (20 and 60 mph) to validate an 8″×8″ slipbase FE model. Once an accurak model of the 8″×8″ slibase is obtained, the exact modelling techniques used in developing this slipbase are used to construct a FE model of the 3″×3″ slipbase. The second task of this study involved using the 3″×3″ slipbase model to predict its behaviour in a 32 and 96 km/hr (20 and 60 mph) impacts. The predictions showed that modified 3″×3″ slipbase passes the NCHRP 350 safety Criteria. These predict...