A VAM-Based Equivalent Model for Triangular Honeycomb Sandwich Panels: Comparison with Numerical and Experimental Data

Abstract

Due to their complex microstructures, the research on the static and dynamic behaviors of triangular honeycomb sandwich panels (triangular HSPs) is limited. In this study, the effective plate properties of triangular HSP was obtained by the homogenizing of the unit cell, and then the input to a VAM-based two-dimensional equivalent plate model (2D-EPM) to perform static and dynamic analyses. The accuracy of the proposed model for predicting the equivalent stiffness of the triangular HSP was verified by three-point bending experiments of 3D-printed specimens. Then, the static displacement, global buckling, and free vibrations predicted by 2D-EPM were verified with the results from three-dimensional finite element model simulations under various boundary conditions. The influences of structural parameters (including angle, core wall thickness, and cell side length of the unit cell) on the static and dynamic characteristics of triangular HSPs were also investigated, which can provide a useful tool for the modeling and evaluation of triangular HSPs under different conditions.

Dynamic Characteristics and Effective Stiffness Properties of Sandwich Panels with Hierarchical Hexagonal Honeycomb

“…Hence, researchers' efforts to improve the mechanical properties have focused on structural changes in the core layer [6]. For instance, Wang et al [7] suggested using a triangular honeycomb sandwich structure to simplify the construction and enhance the connection between local areas, thus improving bending resistance. Similarly, Yang et al [8] explored the use of a core layer with a negative Poisson's ratio to enhance the sandwich panel's shear resistance and hardness, resulting in ductile behavior.…”