Geometric Ceramic Armor Elements Attenuate Shock Waves

The patent applies asymmetry by providing ceramic elements with non-parallel front and back surfaces, where the first surface has a different orientation relative to the shock wave than the second surface. This asymmetric geometry causes reflected shock waves to diverge in different directions rather than converging, thereby reducing the destructive interaction between incident and reflected shock waves that occurs in symmetric, evenly thick tiles.

The patent employs curvature by providing at least one of the ceramic element surfaces with a curved configuration rather than a flat plane. This curved surface geometry alters the reflection pattern of shock waves, causing them to diverge more effectively and reducing the concentration of shock wave energy that leads to internal failure in conventional flat-tiled armor.

The asymmetric surface orientation is implemented through controlled removal or addition of material during manufacturing processes such as grinding, machining, or 3D printing. The degree of asymmetry can be adjusted to balance protective performance with manufacturability, allowing gradual transition from conventional symmetric tiles to asymmetric geometric elements.

Curved surfaces are created through conventional manufacturing techniques including grinding, polishing, or additive manufacturing with curved toolpaths. The curvature radius and surface profile can be optimized to provide shock wave attenuation while remaining compatible with existing manufacturing capabilities, thereby reducing the ease-of-manufacture penalty.

The non-parallel asymmetric surfaces are designed with specific angular relationships that optimize shock wave divergence. By controlling the angle between the front and back surfaces, the patent achieves effective shock wave intensity reduction while keeping the geometric complexity within manageable limits for manufacturing and integration.

Curved surfaces with optimized radius and profile are employed to control shock wave reflection and divergence. The curvature is designed to achieve maximum shock wave attenuation effect while maintaining reasonable structural complexity, avoiding excessive geometric features that would complicate manufacturing without providing additional protective benefit.