A deterministic finite element analysis of the effects of projectile characteristics on the impact response of fully clamped flexible woven fabrics

In this paper the effects of projectile size and shape on the impact response of a single-layer fully-clamped flexible woven fabric are numerically studied using a finite element analysis. Six projectiles of spherical, cylindrical, and conical shapes with varying sizes but of the same mass are considered. A yam-level fabric model with a deterministic implementation of experimental mean yarn tensile strength and inter-yarn friction is considered. A single impact velocity is chosen for the six different projectiles to compare the fabric impact responses in terms of residual projectile velocities, fabric energy dissipations, and number of failed yarns. Two impact locations are considered, at a yarn cross-over and at the gap in-between the yarns. The sensitivity of fabric impact response to projectile geometrical characteristics and impact location is demonstrated. (c) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.