Multibody modelling of gabion beams for impact applications

Gabions are stone-filled wire containers which are frequently used as retaining walls. However, due to their high mass, relatively low cost and visual appeal, a row of single gabion blocks, joined at the ends, has the potential to be used as a roadside impact absorption device where traditional steel or concrete devices may not be suitable. To evaluate such application, the shear and bending deformation of gabions under vehicle impact need to be investigated. In this paper, the shear response of a single gabion block is analytically modelled and a gabion beam multibody model is developed using a discretisation method to capture the deformability of the gabion structure. The material properties of the gabion beam are adopted from experimental values available in the literature and the modelling is statically validated over a three-point bending test and a distributed loading test. The results show that the discretised multibody modelling can be effectively used to describe the static deformation behaviour of gabion blocks.

Development and experimental evaluation of a steel tube vehicle impact attenuation system. Final report.

Connecticut Department of Transportation, Bureau of Planning and Research, Wethersfield

Scale model study of low-density concrete impact attenuators. Final report.

Ohio Department of Transportation, Columbus

Side impact padding integration study. Final report.

Mode of access: Internet.

Adição de geomanta e tecido não tecido de polipropileno em cimentos geopoliméricos de pega rápida

Geopolymers are cementing materials that depict a number of advantages compared to Portland cement. Contrary to the latter, geopolymers are synthesized at room temperature, thus significantly reducing the emission of CO2 to the atmosphere. Moreover, the composition and synthesis reactions can be tailored to adjust the setting time of the material as well as its compressive mechanical strength. It is then possible to produce geopolymeric cements with short setting times and high compressive strength, although relatively brittle. The objective of the present study was to produce and characterize composite materials by reinforcing fastsetting geopolymeric matrixes with polypropylene geosynthetics (geomats and geotextiles) in an attempt to improve the toughness and tensile strength of the cementing material. Geosynthetics have been increasingly used to reinforce engineering structures, providing higher strength and better toughness. In particular, polypropylene nonwoven and geomats depict other attractive properties such as low density, durability, impact absorption and resistance to abrasion. Fast-setting geopolymers were then synthesized and reinforced with polypropylene nonwoven and geomats. The mechanical strength of the materials, reinforced or not, was characterized. The results showed that relatively short setting times and adequate flowing behavior were achieved by adjusting the composition of the geopolymer. In addition, it is possible to improve the fracture resistance of geopolymeric cements by adding polypropylene geosynthetics. The best results were achieved by reinforcing geopolymer with polypropylene TNT

Use of nonlinear asymmetrical shock absorber to improve comfort on passenger vehicles

Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP)

Experimental evaluation of a portable energy absorbing system for highway service vehicles. Final report for phase II.

Connecticut Department of Transportation, Bureau of Planning and Research, Wethersfield

Analytical evaluation of Texas bridge rails to contain buses and trucks.

Texas State Department of Highways and Public Transportation, Transportation Planning Division, Austin

Identification of superior energy-absorbing materials for school bus interiors: Volume I - summary report. Final report.

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Washington, D.C.

Identification of superior energy-absorbing materials for school bus interiors: Volume II - technical report. Final report.

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Washington, D.C.

Identification of superior energy-absorbing materials for school bus interiors: Volume III - appendices report. Final report.

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Washington, D.C.

Experimental evaluation of a portable energy absorbing system for highway service vehicles. Final report for phase I.

Connecticut Department of Transportation, Bureau of Planning and Research, Wethersfield

Guardrail/vehicle dynamic interaction. Final report.

Federal Highway Administration, Washington, D.C.

Performance of a tire-sand inertial barrier system in Connecticut. Final report.

Federal Highway Administration, Washington, D.C.

Underride guard design feasibility study. Final report.

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Washington, D.C.