Further Development of the EPIC-3 Computer Program for Three-Dimensional Analysis of Intense Impulsive Loading

Abstract : An advanced version of the EPIC-3 computer program is described. The numerical technique is based on a Lagrangian finite element formulation where the equations of motion are integrated directly rather than through the traditional stiffness matrix approach. It is primarily intended for three dimensional analysis of penetration and wave propagation problems resulting from high velocity impact, although other applications are possible. The two most significant improvements over the initial version of the EPIC-3 code, are that problems of unlimited size can be run and that the code is programmed to eventually run on fourth generation vector computers. Other improvements include the capability to apply external pressures, reduction of required input, expanded geometry generators, a more general sliding surface capability and expanded plotting capability.