Assessment of Projectile Shatter Using Digital Image Processing Techniques

This report describes a novel technique for identifying the advent of projectile shatter in ballistically tested armor specimens. The methodology proposed is based on the use of digital image processing techniques for visually mapping out the interior of a ballistic cavity. Such a map may then be used to determine if projectile shatter has occurred and if so, to gain additional information on the approximate depth, location, and degree of shatter. The implementation of this technique will result in improved accuracy and efficiency in the analysis of projectile shatter. The first and most noticeable savings is in eliminating the requirement for machining and preparation of specimens. This will provide for a quicker turn around time, resulting either in increased labor savings or increased sample throughput. Since the samples need not be machined, the penetration cavity remains intact in its original state, which, upon analysis, should result in a more accurate account of the projectile/armor interaction. An additional benefit is that the system may be easily automated for data acquisition, allowing for an additional increase in sample processing. The recording of images by the host computer offers greater flexibility for study by the researcher. Since the images are archived using magnetic media, they may be recalled at any time to provide much of the same information as the original sample and in a much more convenient format. As techniques for image processing and armor analysis improve these same images may be reprocessed using the newer techniques, providing additional data without the need for sample and testing redundancy. Real time, Image processing, Damage, Armor, Test method.