Diseño e implementación de un impactador para realizar ensayos de impacto en barreras de seguridad adaptable al péndulo de impacto del grupo de investigación ¨GDP¨ de la Facultad de Mecánica

Abstract

The primary objective of this work was to design and implement an impactor by the recommendations outlined in NCHRP 656 and UNE EN 1317-2010 standards. The purpose of this impactor was to conduct impact tests on safety barriers. Our methodology involved collecting information from various research sources, references, and websites and referencing the NCHRP 656 standard. The sizing and design of the impactor were executed using the dimensions of a Chevrolet SPART GT automobile, with a mass of 1300 kg, which closely resembles that of a test vehicle. Furthermore, we applied the VDI 2221 methodology to develop the impactor, as this method focuses on selecting the most viable alternative. All mechanical components were theoretically designed and calculated, complemented by modeling in the SOLIDWORKS software. The construction of the impactor was meticulously carried out, involving planning and the application of machining processes, culminating in its assembly on the pendulum. Impact tests were conducted on safety barriers to evaluate their performance, yielding an average error of 1.115%, which falls within acceptable limits. To validate these results, a T-Student test was applied to confirm the absence of significant differences. The implementation of the resultant equipment has demonstrated its validity due to the low margin of error present in the results. In conclusion, impact tests against safety barriers were successfully conducted to assess the functionality of the impactor. It is recommended to establish collaborations with institutions dedicated to installing safety barriers on national roads to enhance road safety in our country.