A metamodel-based shape optimization approach for shallow-buried blast-loaded flexible underbody targets

• Target vertical position affects impulse response comparison.
• For center-buried loads, a v-like shape underbody target produced the lowest impulse.
• Domain reduction produced more accurate solutions than single iteration strategy.

Landmine detonation continues to be a serious threat to Army military vehicles in theater. One strategy to mitigate its effects is to use engineering design techniques to reshape the underbody of the hull. Previous works have shown that reshaping the hull's underbody can change the vehicle's response to blast loading. In the presented work, a metamodel-based shape optimization methodology is proposed for optimizing shallow-buried blast-loaded underbody structures. The shallow-buried blast load is simulated using an empirical model. Additional studies are conducted on target positions with respect to the blast load and load positioning and the effects of optimization parameters on the optimal solution. It is shown that target vertical position affects impulse response comparison, and for center-buried loads, the v-shaped underbody target produces a lower impulse than that of other shaped targets. Optimal solutions obtained using an adaptive domain reduction strategy produce more accurate solutions than a single iteration strategy. Based on the proposed optimization method, a unique v-like underbody shape is presented as the optimal underbody solution.