Shape Factor of a Randomly Oriented Cylinder

Abstract

This report defines a dimensionless shape factor which is useful for characterizing the penetration potential of projectiles and irregular shaped fragments. The shape factor, so defined is purely a function of shape and orientation and is independent of mass and material density. The shape factor of some simple shapes is calculated exactly, but the focus of this report is on a right circular cylinder (RCC). Not only is it possible to express the shape factor as a function of the length-to-diameter (L/D) ratio and orientation but it is also possible to derive an exact, closed-form expression for the shape factor probability distribution. It is found that the probability density function is not a symmetrical distribution about its mode, but rather is highly skewed. This points out the inadequacy of an average shape factor and also carries implications for designing fragment simulating projectiles (FSPs). Furthermore, it is shown that randomly oriented cylinders have potential for simulating behind-armor debris fragments.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jul 01, 2000
Accession Number
ADA380606

Entities

People

  • Richard Saucier

Organizations

  • United States Army Research Laboratory

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Algorithms
  • Coordinate Systems
  • Data Science
  • Diameters
  • Distribution Functions
  • Geometry
  • Information Science
  • Materials
  • Military Research
  • Orientation (Direction)
  • Probability
  • Probability Density Functions
  • Probability Distributions
  • Projectiles
  • Simulations
  • Statistical Distributions
  • Warfare

Readers

  • Explosive Engineering.
  • Structural Dynamics.
  • Systems Analysis and Design