3D printed elastic honeycombs with graded density for tailorable energy absorption

Simon R. G. Bates, Ian R. Farrow, Richard S. Trask

Research output: Chapter or section in a book/report/conference proceedingChapter in a published conference proceeding

26 Citations (SciVal)

Abstract

This work describes the development and experimental analysis of hyperelastic honeycombs with graded densities, for the purpose of energy absorption. Hexagonal arrays are manufactured from thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) via fused filament fabrication (FFF) 3D printing and the density graded by varying cell wall thickness though the structures. Manufactured samples are subject to static compression tests and their energy absorbing potential analysed via the formation of energy absorption diagrams. It is shown that by grading the density through the structure, the energy absorption profile of these structures can be manipulated such that a wide range of compression energies can be efficiently absorbed.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication Active and Passive Smart Structures and Integrated Systems, 2016
PublisherSPIE
ISBN (Print)9781510600409
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 15 Apr 2016
EventActive and Passive Smart Structures and Integrated Systems 2016 - Las Vegas, USA United States
Duration: 21 Mar 201624 Mar 2016

Publication series

NameProceedings of SPIE - The International Society for Optical Engineering
Volume9799

Conference

ConferenceActive and Passive Smart Structures and Integrated Systems 2016
Country/TerritoryUSA United States
CityLas Vegas
Period21/03/1624/03/16

Keywords

  • Cellular structures
  • Elastomers
  • Energy absorption
  • Functional grading

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