Explicit Finite Element Method for Transparency Impact Analysis

Abstract

This report documents new analytical methods for the solution of soft-body impact problems, including birdstrike. The approach is based on explicit finite element techniques which allow for very detailed material modeling and make efficient use of the current generation of supercomputers. The most important improvements in the present work over previous efforts are in the areas of soft-body impact loading, material modeling, and treatment of layered wall constructions. Impact loads are obtained directly by including the impacting body in the finite element model, eliminating the need for ad hoc loading models. Both the transparency and the soft body materials may be rate- sensitive, exhibit nonlinear bulk behavior, and may fail during the finite element solution. Methods have been developed to make commercial graphics software (PATRAN) deal correctly with failed elements for results output. An improved model of laminated shells is included in the plate and shell element so that each layer of a multilayered transparency need not be modeled with distinct elements, even when soft interlayers are present. The methods described have been implemented in an explicit finite element code X3D. User and programmer information are included in the report as appendices. Applications described in the report include two standard test problems and an F-16 birdstrike simulation.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jun 01, 1991
Accession Number
ADA243527

Entities

People

  • R. A. Brockman
  • T. W. Held

Organizations

  • University of Dayton

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Air Platforms
  • Energy and Power Technologies
  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Composite Materials
  • Computational Fluid Dynamics
  • Computational Science
  • Computer Programs
  • Computers
  • Dynamic Response
  • Finite Element Analysis
  • Laminates
  • Mechanical Properties
  • Mechanics
  • Modulus Of Elasticity
  • Operating Systems
  • Plastic Properties
  • Shear Modulus
  • Stratified Fluids
  • Stress Strain Relations
  • Three Dimensional

Fields of Study

  • Engineering

Readers

  • Computational Modeling and Simulation
  • Electromagnetic Wave Scattering and Antenna Radiation Engineering
  • Systems Analysis and Design