Virtual Ballistic Testing of Kevlar Soft Armor: Predictive and Validated Modeling of the V0-V100 Probabilistic Penetration Response using LS-DYNA®

Over 15 years of worldwide research into the ballistic impact modeling of woven aramid fabrics used in soft armor based on yarn-level fabric finite element models has been unable to achieve any quantitatively-predictive and validated capability to predict the V0-V100 probabilistic penetration response of the fabric against various threats. For the first time ever, we demonstrate such a capability and the comprehensive framework behind it that brings together highly focused research across several fronts enabling a close synergistic interplay between experiments, statistical analysis, and finite element modeling. The exemplar scenario chosen to demonstrate this capability comprises a fully-clamped, single-ply, Kevlar S706 plain-weave fabric impacted by two types of 0.22 cal projectiles: a 11-gr sphere and a 17-gr FSP. The fabric model comprises individually-modeled 3D yarns with a user-defined material model. Observed stochastic variability in material properties and testing are mapped into the model to enable probabilistic outcomes. The model accurately predicts the experimental V0-V100 curves for both the 0.22 cal projectiles. The model also captures the spread in projectile residual velocities over the range of penetrating experimental test shots conducted, including variability in projectile exit trajectories.