Technology and innovation

Simple principles, mature technology

The principle behind Bypass Rockfall Protection is the same as a vehicle placed upright. The safe, green zone is surrounded by a solid and secure framework that absorbs impact. The green zone itself can withstand the full force of a rockfall without collapsing.

The overhead structure (red zone) is our patented technology. It is unique because it absorbs the impact of the rockfall through three zones and then redirects the debris away from both the structure and the road.

The result is a roadway that is completely safe and unaffected by the rockfall.

Patented solutions

Full scale testing with Norwegian University of Science and Technology

Bypass Sikkerhetstunnel passed its first full-scale test in 2023. The test was conducted in collaboration with NTNU. Since then we have conducted more than 40 tests.

Unique patented roof

Bypass AS holds the patent for the unique roof structure capable of absorbing up to 90% of the energy from a rockfall. This innovative energy absorbtion system protects the structure from damage even under extreme conditions.

Each part of the module plays a vital role in energy absorption:

1. Green Layer – Pipe bundles.
2. Purple Layer – Load-bearing bridge.
3. Pink layer – Distribution beam.
4. Blue Layer – Crash boxes/Shock absorbers.

1. Road protection

When the rockfall hits Bypass Rockfall Protection, 80-90% of the energy is absorbed within just 1/10 of a second. Within 6-7 seconds, the debris is redirected away from the construction and the road. Bypass Rockfall Protection keeps everyone safe before, during and after the rockfall.

2. Optimized for the critical seconds

It’s safe for motorists and other travellers to pass through Bypass Rockfall Protection during a rock fall. The structure is solid and reliable.

Our energy-absorbing, impenetrable roof is tilted at a 15-degree angle to ensure that the debris is redirected away from the structure and the road.

3. We put safety first.

• Conducted full-scale tests with rock blocks weighing up to 4.7 tons.
• The blocks were dropped from a height of 50 meters.
• The blocks reached a speed of 137 km/h.
• No blocks or debris end up in the roadway – safety is ensured.

Materials

Bypass Rockfall Protection is a robust and secure structure made from steel and aluminium, installed directly onto existing roads. It has a lifespan of 100 years.

Aluminium is a sustainable material—it is strong, lightweight, and requires minimal maintenance. It is also easy to recycle and reuse.

In fact, approximately 75% of all aluminium ever produced is still in use today.