A new box-beam burster energy-absorbing single-sided crash cushion (BEAT-SSCC) was designed and crash tested. This energy-absorbing crash cushion is designed to shield a rigid hazard, such as the end of a concrete safety-shaped barrier. Energy-absorbing capabilities of the BEAT-SSCC are based on the bursting tube technology, similar to that used with the box-beam burster energy-absorbing terminal. Five full-scale vehicle crash tests were conducted to evaluate the impact performance of the BEAT-SSCC in accordance with guidelines set forth in NCHRP Report 350: (a) Test Designation 3-31--pickup truck head-on test; (b) Test Designation 3-38--pickup truck critical impact point test (two tests to evaluate two different critical impact points); (c) Test Designation 3-39--pickup truck reverse direction test at midpoint of crash cushion, and (d) modified Test Designation 3-39--pickup truck reverse direction test at connection to the concrete barrier. The crash cushion performed as designed, and the BEAT-SSCC meets all evaluation criteria for a Test Level 3 crash cushion set forth in NCHRP Report 350. The BEAT-SSCC is being evaluated by the Federal Highway Administration for approval to be used on the National Highway System.
Abstract