Owning to their lightweight characteristic and high performance, functionally graded lattice structures (FGLSs) show great potential in orthopedics, automotive industries and aerospace applications. Here, two types of uniform lattice structures (ULSs) with RD = 0.50 and 0.20, and two types of FGLSs with RD = 0.30–0.50 and RD = 0.20–0.40, were designed by topology optimization and fabricated by SLM technology. Subsequently, their surface morphology, compressive deformation behavior and energy absorption abilities were evaluated by use of the finite element method (FEM) and compression tests. From these results, both elastic modulus and yield strength of specimens decreased with the lowering of the RD value. ULSs had a uniform deformation behavior with bending and bulking of struts, while FGLSs presented a mixed deformation behavior of different layers. Additionally, the energy absorption capability (Wv) of specimens was proportional to the RD value. When the value of RD increased from 0.20 to 0.50, the Wv of specimens increased from 0.3657 to 1.7469 MJ/m3. Furthermore, mathematical models were established successfully to predict the mechanical properties of FGLSs with percentage deviations < 10%. This work provides a comprehensive understanding regarding how to design and manufacture FGLSs with the properties desired for satisfying the demand of different application scenarios.

Color is the dominant element of visual communication design. For cities, color is one of their characteristics. Improving the overall style of a city through the control and planning of architectural color has been a hot issue in urban control and planning in recent years. Considering color pollution in urban planning, we analyze the important role of color in visual communication design from the perspective of the visual communication concept of media art. The current situation of residential building colors in Shanghai City is investigated. We determine the residents’ preferences and requirements related to architectural exterior color on the basis of a data analysis of color and material selection, color matching, composition, and others. This study changes the traditional architectural color design concept that centers on individuals and lacks overall control. Specifically, we construct a set of multi-scale color controlling and planning systems at the macro-, meso-, and micro-scales. We also guide and control the urban architectural color such that it is in accordance with the systematic color planning strategy. This method enables the systematic and holistic external color planning of urban residential buildings.