Agent-based simulation of improvised explosive device fragment damage on individual components

Abstract

With the development of asymmetrical warfare, improvised explosive devices (IEDs) have become the most significant threat to military land platforms. Among other IED effects, fragments cause severe damage, limiting platform capabilities and subsequent mission performance at a significant distance from the explosion. Existing simulation tools operate at a closely defined level of abstraction and scope. For example, finite element analysis tools describe the problem at a fine level of detail but are only viable for the simulation of small components or structures. In contrast, common turn-based battlefield tools simulate the movements of entire battle groups, but at a high level of abstraction whereby damage is estimated as a probabilistic function. In order to address this disconnect, we present a method of fragment damage simulation based on agent modeling techniques; as a component of a common approach to platform survivability, estimation considers the problem from the individual structure damage up to the fleet-level capabilities. The results obtained prove the validity of the approach for low-level fragment damage modeling. Extensions, to include blast threat and platform-level survivability assessment, are proposed

Dynamic Multiprojectile Attack and Killing Effects of Detonation Warheads

“…Warhead parameters and the combined damage capability of multiple projectiles determine damage efficiency. Many researchers have been interested in this topic for decades and have developed many models to study the maximum warhead fragment speed [1][2][3]. e Taylor formula [4] and the Shapiro formula are two commonly used models to solve axial fragment speed and fragment spatial dispersion.…”

Real-time calculation of the initial angle of projection for fragments in cylindrical warheads

“…Fast computation is also required during a vehicle’s design cycle to help maximize its survivability by gauging the effect of a wide range of threats. 1,2 Neither the DAS nor designers’ computers can rely on accurate computer methods, such as Finite Element Analysis (FEA), as these methods are computationally intensive. The aim of this paper is to create an accurate enhanced Taylor equation that is computationally fast.…”

Real-time simulation of a fragmenting explosion for cylindrical warheads

“…Fast computer systems are also required to gage the effect of various threats on a vehicle under design, and allow a designer to determine the optimum armor and/or vehicle architecture required to increase a vehicle's survivability. 1 Faster models allow more threats to be assessed early in the design cycle, which allows designers to consider a larger range of design options. 2 One of the main threats to a military asset is an explosion, a complex physical event involving many variables.…”