Optimization of selected cellular topology for ballistic panel design

This paper implements an experimental–optimization approach for studying the ballistic effectiveness of the selected 2D cellular structure impacted by the 7.62 × 39 mm AP BZ projectile according to STANAG 4569 level 2. The Selective Laser Melting (SLM) technique with a maraging M300 steel (1.2709) powder is used for manufacturing specimens. For the ballistic panel core, the Tabulated Johnson–Cook (TJC) model is adopted. A user-defined semi-automatic script is then developed to construct finite element (FE) models of the bullet-target system enabling to perform radial-basis-function metamodel-based optimizations. Based on the study, the optimized ballistic panel configuration is obtained that stops the AP BZ bullet, while limiting its penetration depth and relative density of the cellular core. This study provides an useful guide for investigating and developing light ballistic panels with controlled failure mechanisms and quantifiable gains in mass efficiency.