Design and Development of Novel Lattice Structures for Optimum Energy Absorption

Lattice structures are intricate networks of interconnected struts, surfaces, and plates formed from irregular and non-periodic cells. Among the promising lattices, triply periodic minimal surfaces (TPMS) lattices stand out for their attractive blend of lightweight properties, excellent energy absorption capacity, and thermal insulation capabilities. In this paper, we propose a modeling technique to create innovative lattice structures with complicated shapes and compare their mechanical properties with existing TPMS lattices. The lattice is coded in matlab using mathematical equations. The filament-based material extrusion method was utilized to produce the desired lattice structures. In order to determine the compressive mechanical properties, the 3D-printed lattices underwent compression testing. The energy absorption capacity of the novel lattices was shown to be increased by 135%, 153%, and 162% when compared to gyroid lattice structures and 110%, 125%, and 132% when compared to diamond lattice structures at constant relative density. Furthermore, this technique gives data for creating lattice structures with complicated contours as well as the underlying design principles for the construction of lattice structures with superior mechanical characteristics and numerous applications, particularly in protective devices. The proposed approach could be used in the future to develop lightweight structures for biomedical applications that incorporate various lattice unit cell designs.