Casualty Assessments of Penetrating Wounds from Ballistic Trauma
Abstract
This report identifies areas in which procedures for estimating incapacitation from penetrating wounds can be enhanced. Current methodologies for describing incapacitation, wounds and penetration depth are discussed in detail. Improvements are indicated with reference to the parametric form of the retardation algorithm, ballistic testing, and the manner in which ballistic test data is reduced. Incapacitation estimates using current methodologies are compared with autopsy and battlefield data. The 'ballistic dose' (MV3/2) as used in current methodologies to estimate casualties and assess munition effectiveness did not correlate with the degree of incapacitation in these cases. Experimental data generated for spheres penetrating different homogeneous formulations of ordnance gelatin targets could not be accurately described using current methods. An alternative strategy is employed to predict the penetration depth of spheres at various striking velocities and .22 caliber rifle bullets. Analytical predictions for the retardation, yaw, and trajectory of a 19.6 grain flechette are also compared with experimental data as measured in-situ during ballistic tests involving a range of striking yaws and velocities. Experimental data correlated very closely with the analysis.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 30, 2001
- Accession Number
- ADA392268
Entities
People
- A. K. Chatterjee
- G. H. Burghart
- J. A. O'keefe Iv
- R. D. Eisler