3D reconstruction of naturally fragmenting warhead fragments
Date
2024-03
Authors
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Publisher
Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University
Abstract
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: This study starts with a brief introduction to the South African armaments and ammunition
technology industry, highlighting the historical alignment with NATO standards. The focal point is
the investigation into the potential of an existing NATO-compliant icosahedral imaging system to
ascertain additional geometric features of fragments, such as mass and volume. Building on prior
work, the author proposes leveraging extensive image data sets acquired through the icosahedral
imaging system to determine these features.
The literature study explores two key approaches: stereo vision and shape-from-silhouette 3D
reconstruction. The latter emerges as the favored method, particularly due to how well the
technique complements the icosahedral camera arrangement. Subsequently, attention is directed
toward the electro-mechanical design of the icosahedral imaging instrument and the creation of
shape-from-silhouette reconstruction software. Challenges in calibrating the multi-imaging system
are addressed through hardware upgrades.
The study advances to experimental results, involving the analysis of fragments recovered from a
warhead arena test. Average presented areas are determined, and 3D reconstructed models are
obtained using the shape-from-silhouette technique, with errors ranging from 2% to 54%. A detailed
discussion follows, highlighting the similar average presented area measurements for different
icosahedral imaging systems. The inclusion of shadow regions is noted to significantly impact the
accuracy of the 3D reconstruction process. Furthermore, slender fragments exhibit smaller errors
compared to non-slender counterparts.
The study concludes by affirming the achievement of the primary objectives, namely, the ability to
use fragment silhouettes obtained during average presented area measurements to produce close-fit 3D
models of fragments. Future work is underscored, building upon the strong foundation laid by this
investigation. Recommendations, improvements, and suggestions for future research are provided,
emphasizing the potential for enhanced reconstruction accuracy, particularly for non-slender
fragments, with increased camera deployment.
AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Geen opsomming beskikbaar.
AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Geen opsomming beskikbaar.
Description
Thesis (MSc)--Stellenbosch University, 2024.