Multi-Functional Hybrid Panel For Blast and Impact Mitigation and Method of Manufacture

Abstract

This invention relates to a multifunctional structure for mitigating the effects of explosions and impeding the penetration of projectiles that is also highly effective at supporting structural (i.e. static) loads. By wrapping a tile in multiple layers of high-performance fabric, upon impact by a projectile additional tensile forces are created, aiding in the deceleration of the projectile. With added layers the tensile forces aiding projectile deceleration increase, resulting in a ballistic panel for use in multifunctional structural / armor systems having a lighter weight and greater stopping power than conventional armor systems in addition to functioning as part of a structure for supporting static loads.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS AND CLAIM FOR PRIORITY[0001]This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61 / 321,612 entitled “Ballistic Response of Aluminum and Alumina Cellular Structures” filed on Apr. 7, 2010. The Applicants of the provisional application are Mark R. O'Masta and Haydn N. G. Wadley. This non-provisional application further claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61 / 356,231 entitled “Ballistic Response of Aluminum and Alumina Cellular Structures” filed on Jun. 18, 2010. The Applicants of the provisional application are Mark R. O'Masta and Haydn N. G. Wadley. The above provisional applications are hereby incorporated by reference herein in their entireties.GOVERNMENT FUNDING[0002]This invention was made with government support under Grant No. N00014-07-1-0764 awarded by the United States Office of Naval Research. The government has certain rights in the invention.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]1. Field of the Inven...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent text describes a method for making a compact and strong tile that can be used in armor designs. The method involves wrapping the fabric around the tile and using a hot press or autoclave to make sure the adhesive is properly set. The tile can be used in a variety of armor designs to help decelerate projectiles. The use of space behind the fabric allows for its free motion and helps in withstanding ballistic events. The design of the tiles also includes through-thickness webs that make them resistant to bending and can help mitigate the penetration of projectiles.

Problems solved by technology

These plates need to be thick and are therefore heavy when used to provide adequate protection against modern weaponry.

Unfortunately, these ceramic-armors often crack while dissipating the energy of an explosion or a ballistic impact, thereby weakening the armor against subsequent impacts in the same region.

When layered with ceramics and / or hard metals, such fabrics can not only provide a stopping measure for projectiles, but also helps retain the original shape of the armor components.

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