Biomimetic Modular Honeycomb with Enhanced Crushing Strength and Flexible Customizability

Abstract

The integration of biomimetic principles into the sophisticated design of honeycomb structures has gained significant traction. Inspired by the natural reinforcement mechanisms observed in tree stems, this research introduces localized thickening to the conventional honeycombs, leading to the development of variable-density honeycomb blocks. These blocks are strategically configured to form modular honeycombs. Initially, the methodology for calculating the relative density of the new design is meticulously detailed. Following this, a numerical model based on the plastic limit theorem, verified experimentally, is used to investigate the in-plane deformation models of modular honeycomb under the low- and high-velocity impact and to establish a theoretical framework for compressive strength. The results confirm that the theoretical predictions for crushing strength in the modular honeycomb align closely with numerical findings across both low- and high-velocity impacts. Further investigation into densification strain, energy absorption, and gradient strategy is conducted using both simulation and experimental approaches. The outcomes indicate that the innovative design outperforms conventional honeycombs by significantly enhancing the crushing strength under low-velocity impacts through the judicious arrangement of honeycomb blocks. Additionally, with a negligible difference in densification strains, the modular honeycomb demonstrates superior energy dissipation capabilities compared to its conventional counterparts. At a strain of 0.85, the modular honeycomb’s energy absorption capacity improves by 36.68% at 1 m/s and 25.47% at 10 m/s compared to the conventional honeycomb. By meticulously engineering the arrangement of sub-honeycombs, it is possible to develop a modular honeycomb that exhibits a multi-plateau stress response under uniaxial and biaxial compression. These advancements are particularly beneficial to the development of auto crash absorption systems, high-end product transportation packaging, and personalized protective gear.