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Quasi-Static and Low-Velocity Impact Response of 3D Printed Plates Using Bio-Inspired Tool Paths
Muhammed Kamrul Islam1,2, Paul J Hazell1, Hongxu Wang1
1School of Engineering and Information Technology, The University of New South Wales, Canberra, ACT 2600, Australia.
Biomimetics (Basel, Switzerland)
|March 26, 2025
Summary
Bio-inspired tool paths mimicking Bouligand structures enhance 3D printed porous plates. This biomimetic approach significantly improves specific energy absorption and toughness compared to rectilinear patterns.
Area of Science:
- Biomimetics and Materials Science
- Additive Manufacturing
- Mechanical Engineering
Background:
- Nature-inspired designs offer novel solutions for material engineering.
- The Bouligand (plywood-like) structure is a common biological architecture.
- 3D printing enables the fabrication of complex, customized structures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of a bio-inspired tool path on the mechanical properties of 3D printed porous plates.
- To compare the performance of Bouligand-patterned plates against traditionally manufactured rectilinear plates.
- To evaluate energy absorption and failure mechanisms under quasi-static and dynamic loading.
Main Methods:
- 3D printing of porous plates with varying infill densities (25-100%).
- Utilizing a bio-inspired Bouligand tool path and a standard rectilinear tool path.
- Conducting quasi-static and dynamic mechanical testing to assess performance.
- Analyzing fracture patterns to understand failure mechanisms.
Main Results:
- Bouligand-patterned plates exhibited superior specific energy absorption at 75% infill density.
- The bio-inspired pattern demonstrated excellent elongation and toughness.
- Fracture patterns in Bouligand specimens mimicked the natural structure.
- Rectilinear patterned specimens showed brittle failure across infill percentages.
Conclusions:
- Bio-inspired Bouligand tool paths enhance the mechanical performance of 3D printed porous plates.
- This biomimetic approach offers a promising strategy for improving energy absorption and toughness in polymers.
- The study highlights the potential of leveraging natural structural designs in additive manufacturing for advanced material applications.
Keywords:
Bouligand structureadditive manufacturingbio-inspirationlow-velocity impactquasi-static loadMore Related Videos
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