METHODS FOR ESTIMATING ENERGY IN SOFT TISSUES AND THEIR SIMULANTS – A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS

The article considers the research problem: How to effectively and reliably estimate the amount ofenergy transferred and dissipated in soft tissues (or their simulants), considering their nonlinear,viscoelastic, velocity-dependent mechanical properties, as well as differences resulting from the useof experimental methods and simplified energy models? The basis for addressing this topic is thecomplex structure of soft-tissue simulants, which exhibit a nonlinear stress-strain response anda strong dependence on strain rate. Their response to bullet penetration is difficult to describe usingsimple equations based on kinetic energy; it is necessary to consider cavitation, friction, and viscosity.Currently, we can estimate the energy deposited in soft-tissue simulants using experimental methodsthat record the projectile’s trajectory during penetration and estimate its velocity. These methodsprovide experimental data, but they are costly, and it is difficult to compare results due to the differentresearch methodologies used by the teams, making standardisation difficult and often yieldingdivergent results. The main research questions were as follows: What are the differences betweenexperimental methods in estimating the energy dissipated in tissue simulants? To develop the article,a method of analysis and criticism of the literature was used, involving a systematic, structuredreview of previous scientific studies and existing publications to answer the question posed. Theresult obtained was an answer to the question posed.