Effect of projectile shape on ballistic mechanism in 3D shallow bend-joint woven fabrics

This study uses numerical simulations to investigate projectile shape’s influence on the ballistic performance of 3D shallow bend-joint woven fabrics (3DSBWFs). The projectiles, including conical, flat, hemispherical, and spherical shapes, were analyzed for their impact on energy absorption, stress distribution, and deformation mechanisms. Results indicated that flat projectiles exhibited the highest total energy absorption, reflecting extensive energy transfer and broad impact force distribution. In contrast, conical projectiles caused localized energy absorption, concentrating stress at the tip and leading to early rupture of fabric yarns through minimal energy dissipation. Hemispherical and spherical projectiles demonstrated balanced energy absorption and uniform impact force distribution. Stress propagation varied significantly, with conical projectiles causing localized damage, while flat projectiles displayed broader stress propagation. Deformation patterns also differed, with conical projectiles causing severe localized deformation and flat projectiles resulting in extensive yarn deformation. Hemispherical and spherical projectiles induced more balanced deformations. These findings underscore the importance of projectile shape in designing protective materials, providing insights for optimizing fabric structures to enhance ballistic performance.