By order of the Dutch Department of Public Works Civil Engineering Division, simulations involving the `Mini Half-STEP barrier' (MHS barrier) were conducted to assess its function. The MHS barrier has a profile similar to the STEP barrier, but with a height of only 0.500 metres. The posts have an INP 140 profile, and are driven one metre into the ground. The MHS barrier must meet the N1 level in the NEN-EN 1317-1 norm and the NEN-EN 1317-2 norm. This level involves a test with a heavy passenger car (TB31) having a 1500 kilogram mass, a 80 km/h speed, and a 20 degree entry angle. The simulations were conducted using the VEhicle DYnamics And Crash dynamics (VEDYAC) computer model. Three TB31 simulations were conducted: one with a post spacing of 1.33 metres, one with a post spacing of 2.000 metres, and one with a post spacing of 2.000 metres with 40% less post resistance. Another simulation was carried out with a bus: the TB51 test. The simulations displayed satisfactory results for the collision involving the heavy passenger car. As far as the TB31 test with post spacings is concerned, the MHS barriers with a post spacing of 1.333 metres and 2.000 metres meet the `normal containment level' N1 in the NEN-EN 1317-2. (A)
Abstract