Parametric Study and Design of a Modular Bollard Barrier

Abstract

This project set out to design a modular security barrier that could be used as an expeditionary system for the construction of new secure areas. It would be flexible enough to curve, both horizontally and vertically, with the ground along the perimeter of the site and still be able to withstand a collision with a 15000 lb vehicle travelling at 30 mph. It could then be installed in the ground for permanent protection and be able to stop the same size vehicle travelling 50mph within 3’-3”. All of the tests performed during this project show that this design could meet that desire. Testing for this design included parametric studies in the behavior of the macrostructure. This included testing how the unit shape and curvature affected the performance of the system. After a design was completed based on these tests, it was analyzed by finding performance curves. These curves compared the displacement of the units with the number of units and their curvature. Next the design was refined to improve assembly and constructability and tested for the connection forces. Using spring and beam connection models data on the connection forces was gathered and used to design how the system would be assembled, completing the design.