Penetration depth prediction in mesh-less metal targets

This paper described a general framework of the penetration mechanics for the rigid projectile. The framework is then applied in numerical simulation using mesh-less method for predict the penetration process. The target structures is modelled in a mesh-less way by finite layers of the target materials, which impose penetration resistance on the projectile through resistance function based on dynamic cavity expansion theory. The penetration resistance on the surface of the rigid projectile is a function of the instantaneous velocity of that surface, which can be determined by the rigid body motion of the projectile. Standard finite element method is introduced to model the rigid body motion of the projectile and is coupled with the mesh-less target by exchanging the velocities and stresses through user-interfaces. Predictions of the final penetration depth are compared with corresponding experimental data.