Simulation of impact on sandwich structures

An explicit finite element based simulation tool has been developed to predict the damage within sandwich structures subjected to low velocity impact. The tool, Sandmesh, is capable of automatically generating three-dimensional shell models of both honeycomb and folded structure cores, as well as applying the necessary controls for solution generation. Sandmesh was validated via an experimental test program in which honeycomb sandwich panels were tested for impact resistance and damage. Results showed that for low velocity impact, Sandmesh was capable of accurately predicting both the size and depth of the permanent indentation, as well as providing excellent correlation with the force-time histories. The confidence gained from this program allowed the tool to be applied for the structural and dynamic analysis of folded structure core composites.