SBIR-STTR Award

A computational framework is needed that can provide ground-fixed, ground-mobile, and air target endgame analyses in a single program. Currently, each class of targets has one or more analysis codes that are used to perform endgame analyses. This framework is needed to assess the lethality and effectiveness of weapons throughout the lifetime of the weapon system. The framework needs to support physics-based models and accept test data. Endgame analyses are also used to provide results for higher level modeling and simulation but are run off-line. The computational framework should be able to directly connect to DoD Modeling and Simulation tools through a High Level Architecture (HLA) interface. This phase I effort will determine feasibility of the framework and software and hardware requirements for the framework by evaluating the existing endgame analysis codes. A Verification, Validation, and Accreditation plan for the computational framework will be developed. Existing architectures will be evaluated and if none meet the requirements, when an innovative design for the framework will be developed and demonstrated through a simple prototype. Common elements between the endgame analyses will be identified. During the Phase II effort, the framework will be implemented and tested.

It is the mission of various agencies within the DoD to analyze the susceptibility of military material to damage in encounters with threats, and to study the capabilities of weapon systems to inflict damage on targets. Vulnerability/Lethality (V/L) research includes collecting data from test firings and full-scale field-testing that support the development of computer software models, which predict results of target/threat interactions. These V/L models have progressed from compartment-level models with lumped-parameter estimates for weapon damage to point-burst models that can evaluate behind-armor debris and threat/debris interactions with critical interior components. The iterative process of improving V/L models has been an evolutionary one, with new models building on successful design features and proven methodologies of the past. The Air Force requires modern V/L simulations to accurately predict the effectiveness and survivability of existing and emerging weapon systems. Phase I of this SBIR effort, entitled Munitions Lethality Computational Framework, has identified current deficiencies/needs and subsequently addressed these by designing and providing proof of concept for a flexible and robust V/L Framework. This Framework builds upon the experience of previous efforts and incorporates many innovative features.

Keywords:
Vulnerability Analysisconventional Weapon Effects Effectiveness Analysis Physical Simulation Softwar