Title: An inverse mapping capability for designing blast resistant composite panels through multi-scale modelling

Authors: John P. Kim; Nickolas Vlahopoulos

Addresses: Mechanical Engineering Department, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA ' NA&ME Department, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA

Abstract: This paper presents the development of a multi-scale simulation process for modelling the response of a composite panel to blast loads from an explosive threat. The new process can be used for improving the blast resistant capabilities of the composite panel by configuring its properties at the microlevel. A multi-scale simulation process using the coupled MAC/GMC and ABAQUS explicit codes for computing the response of a structure subjected to a load from an explosion has been established. The functionality of this multiscale simulation capability and the efforts in incorporating microconstitutive material behaviour at high strain rate loading in the simulation process are presented. Formulating an inverse mapping capability for linking desired material properties with the composition of their micro structure in MAC/GMC in a computationally efficient manner, and conducting an optimisation analysis for identifying the desirable material properties for increasing the blast resistant characteristics are presented.

Keywords: blast event simulation; composite panels; multi-scale modelling; lightweight vehicles; finite element analysis; FEA; inverse mapping; blast resistant panels; vehicle panels; panel design; blast loads; explosives; microconstitutive material behaviour; microstructure; military vehicles; blast resistance.

DOI: 10.1504/IJVD.2014.066070

International Journal of Vehicle Design, 2014 Vol.66 No.4, pp.363 - 384

Accepted: 18 Dec 2013
Published online: 02 Dec 2014 *

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