The response of honeycomb sandwich panels under low-velocity impact loading

A numerical simulation was performed using LS-DYNA3D transient dynamic finite element analysis code for calculating contact forces during impact along with a failure analysis for predicting the threshold of impact damage and initiation of delaminations. Good agreement was obtained between numerical and experimental results. In particular, the numerical simulation was able to predict the extent of impact damage and impact energy absorbed by the structure. The results of this study is proving that a correct numerical model can yield significant information for the designer to understand the mechanism involved in the low-velocity impact event, prior to conducting tests, and therefore to design a more efficient impact-resistant aircraft structure.