Principles of optimization of structures against an impact

Abstract

We describe a macro- and micro-behavior of damageable structures. Damage is understood as a process of irreversible phase transition from an initial to a damaged state. An unstructured material can absorb energy until it melts. However,a tiny portion of this energy yields to a construction's disintegration due to instability of the damage that leads to energy concentration. Appearance of concentrated damage zones, such as cracks or delaminating, destroys the construction. The remains of the disintegrated construction can still absorb large amount of energy. The goal of a rational design is to maximally use the energy absorption ability of a damageable material. We propose a concept of a replaceable protective structure design. Such structure should dissipate maximum energy, be able to spread energy of damage, and the damage process should be as stable as possible. The absorption rate and rate of damage propagation are times amplified by waiting-link structures that we describe below.