V50 Assist™ - Ballistic Performance Software

Biokinetics’ V50 Assist™ software standardizes the collection and documentation of V50/ballistic limit testing required by many armour performance standards (e.g. AEP/STANAG 2920, NIJ 0101.06, MIL STD 662F). The software simplifies V50 studies from start-to-finish by recommending the next shot velocity using common “Up-Down” firing procedures providing an intuitive user interface to simplify user input and minimize errors while dynamically computing common ballistic limit parameters including prediction curves and confidence intervals. Automated and customizable Microsoft Excel® reports are also possible along with more advanced lethality-survivability analysis capabilities.

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Speed measurement of small caliber bullets and fragments such as the 2 grain RCC at high speeds can be challenging and/or costly with some ballistic chronographs. The SpeedTube™ solves this with its high-definition (HD) IR light screens that can measure speeds to over 1800 m/s (6000 ft/s) for bullets up to .50 caliber and fragments as small as 2 grain. The shielded light screens also cope with non-metallic projectiles and are self-adjusting to ambient conditions for hassle-free operation. Accuracy of the system and its fully integrated redundant light screens meets the stringent requirements of the NIJ 0101-06/07 and ASTM 3062 test standards assuring confidence in your results. Fully featured custom software calculates the averaged measured speeds and estimates the strike velocity based on AEP-2920 methods. Speed consistency checks between light screens and with the targeted value further provides reassurance and any anomalies are instantly highlighted for immediate action by the technician. All data is automatically indexed and stored and can be exported to other applications through the clipboard with user selected variables. The SpeedTube™ is quickly setup with the provided stand and once the range details are entered, the unit is ready and resets itself for the next test. Its accuracy, dependability, ability to deal with small high-speed projectiles and fully featured software will make the SpeedTube™ an essential tool for any ballistics test laboratory.

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Quick and accurate measurement of the bullet yaw is provided by the stand-alone YawBox™ capable of handling a 2 grain RCC up to a 0.5 calibre bullet at 1500 m/s (5000 fps). The angle of bullets, FSPs and RCCs are measured to better than ±0.5° relative to the line-of-flight including the shot location. Measurements are traceable and alignment takes less than 15 minutes. The custom software automates image capture and analysis and provides image storage and reprocessing capability.

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The Ballistic Load Sensing Headform (BLSH) is used to evaluate the behind armour blunt trauma caused by a defeated ballistic strike to a helmeted head. Injury risk prediction is based on the comparison of skull loading to human fracture tolerance.

The V50 of a helmet is first established with a penetration headform which offers proper helmet support and standoff as well as jaw and nape features for attachment of the retention system. The units are economical and suitable for multiple perforations before disposal.

Following V50 testing, the BLSH is used to measure skull loads resulting from shell deformation. The headform has an array of seven load sensors located behind the ballistic strike location. Optional headform models are available for front-rear, left right and crown locations.

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The Ballistic Load Sensing Headform (BLSH) has components that will need to be replaced in the course of routine testing. The V50 penetration headform and the four skin pads covering the load sensors must be inspected routinely and replaced after heavy use or visible damage.

In the event that a projectile penetrates the ballistic shell, replacement parts for the load sensor array such as the base plate, hexagonal pads and load cells are available .

 

Following V50 testing, the Blunt Trauma Torso Rig (BTTR) is a newly developed method to assess behind armour trauma effects as an alternative to measuring the BFS. The BTTR provides a more realistic assessment of injury risk by simulating the response of the human chest and recording dynamic deflection data.

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Consistent evaluation of body armour’s ballistic resistance depends, in part, on the consistency of the ROMA Plastilina® clay that supports the armour. The clay’s stiffness is highly sensitive to its temperature and any variation may provide inconsistent results. For this reason, ballistic performance standards, such as those from the NIJ 0101.06, require clay verification tests to be conducted prior to each test session. However, it is widely recognized that the clay stiffness may vary across its surface due to temperature variations resulting from soak temperature gradients in the conditioning oven. Biokinetics’ Ballistic Clay Heating Blanket (CHB) has been developed to provide excellent temperature consistency across the surface and though-thickness resulting in less test variability. Its lightweight design and ability to control individual clay block temperatures makes testing in any environment easier and can extend the test time before the block cools by having the blanket re-applied at any time and in any location. The combination of precise temperature control and operational ease make the CHB an invaluable tool in any ballistics range.

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