Using LS-DYNA to Computationally Assess the V0-V100 Impact Response of Flexible Fabrics Through Probabilistic Methods

The probabilistic nature of the impact performance of flexible woven fabrics arises from a number of sources. The statistical nature of yarn tensile strengths on impact response is modeled in this study. Currently the probability of penetration of a fabric at a given velocity (Vx is the impact velocity having a probability of penetration of x ranging from 0 to 100%) is determined experimentally, by shooting fabric panels over a range of velocities and fitting the response data to a likely probabilistic function. This approach requires a large number of experimental test shots associated with significant cost, labor, and time in order to generate statistically meaningful results. In this study, we use the finite element (FE) analysis to study the impact response of flexible woven fabrics. A probabilistic framework is developed, that maps experimentally obtained yarn tensile strength distributions directly onto the FE model comprised of a yarn level architecture. Multiple impact simulations are run using a Monte Carlo approach. Through this novel probabilistic approach, the V0-V100 response of flexible woven fabrics can be predicted numerically. Further, a direct relationship between the statistical nature of yarn material properties and the probabilistic impact response of fabrics is established. This correlation allows an investigation into the effects of weaving and scouring degradations on the impact performance.