Scale model evaluation of frictional effects and redirection mechanisms for angle barrier impacts. Paper prepared for the 54th Annual Meeting of the Transportation Research Board TRB, Washington, D.C., January 1975.

The effects of friction at the car-barrier interface in angular collisions have been investigated by using a 1/24 scale model. Results demonstrate that interface friction can have a great effect on both vehicle trajectory and predicted damage to car and barrier. Friction thresholds for successful redirection are related to vehicle and barrier stiffness, impact angle, and impact speed, but low-friction values show promise of improving accidental barrier impacts at all speeds and angles tested. /Author/