Finite Element Analysis of Fluid- Structure Interaction in a Blast- Resistant Window System

This paper describes the development of a finite element model capable of representing a blast-resistant flexible window (flex-window) system developed by the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL)/Airbase Technologies Division. Computational fluid-structure interaction finite element simulations are used to develop an improved understanding of the manner in which fluid phenomena, such as air compression and flow, affect the behavior of the flexwindow system under blast loading. Compressible air flow interacting with a flexible thin-shell structure of the flex-window (transient air-window panel interaction phenomena) is found to significantly influence system performance. The influences of shock wave propagation and fluid venting inside the damping chamber of the flex-window system are quantified and the influences of such phenomena on panel deflections, deformations, and internal forces are presented. CE Database Subject Headings Blast loading, Finite element method, Dynamics response, Computer models, Fluid-structure interaction, Full-scale tests 1 Research Assistant Professor, Department of Civil and Coastal Engineering, University of Florida, P.O. Box 116580, Gainesville, FL 32611 2 [Corresponding author] Associate Professor, Department of Civil and Coastal Engineering, University of Florida, P.O. Box 116580, Gainesville, FL 32611; Phone (352)392-9537 Ext. 1510; Email: [email protected] 3 Chief, Engineering Mechanics and Explosive Effects Group, Air Force Research Laboratory, 104 Research Rd, Bldg 9742, Tyndall AFB, FL 32403 4 Principal Staff Engineer, Air Force Research Laboratory, 104 Research Rd. Bldg 9742, Tyndall AFB, FL 32403