Global/Local Modeling of Ballistic Impact onto Woven Fabrics

This study focuses on developing a global/local three-dimensional (3D) finite element model of a Kevlar KM2 (R) plain woven fabric applicable for examining ballistic impact from a spherical projectile. The impact event is modeled in LS-DYNA (R) including friction between the individual yarns as well as the projectile and fabric. When compared with the predictive capabilities of a 3D finite element model that includes the detailed undulating representation of the fabric architecture over the entire solution domain, the savings in computational effort afforded by the global/local model become especially attractive. The agreement with fully detailed 3D finite element simulations and ballistic experiments is also demonstrated.