Small Arms Terminal Effects: Implementation of a DOE methodology in order to design small arms terminal effects tests

摘要

Ballistics can be defined as the science of firearms, gun systems and their accompanying propellants and projectiles. More generally, it is the study of the behaviour of projectiles and how they are delivered to and defeat a target. Ballistic theory is divided into four distinct phases; the internal, intermediate (also referred to as transitional), external and terminal. Through the study of ballistics, explosive ordnance engineers and ballisticians can design munitions that defeat targets efficiently while reducing collateral damage. Contemporary study of ballistics has been able to characterise and model accurately two of the ballistics phases; namely the internal and external phase. This is due to the complex relationships that exist for the intermediate and terminal effects phases. Although a range of assumptions can be made to reduce the complexity of the relationships, in order to develop simulations or models, it is more accurate and efficient to utilise real world test and evaluation activities to understand their effects on safety and suitability. In the case of terminal ballistics, it is difficult to observe the projectile making contact with different target sets due to type of terminal effect or the clutter/noise caused during the event. However, observations can be made post-test which can confirm the validity of any model. This paper discusses the use of the formal test methodology, Design of Experiment (DOE) testing; to identify, understand and probabilistically model the significant factors effecting terminal performance against soft targets. This formal methodology allows for each factor and their interactions to be identified, isolated and used in small arms wounding models and simulations. Utilising a case study of the 5.56mm M855A1 enhanced performance round and 7.62mm M80 projectile, small arms terminal performance is better understood as a baseline for future developments within those calibres and weapon systems. The highly efficient test design and test analysis techniques offer excellent re-use.