Programmable Bidirectional Mechanical Metamaterial with Tunable Stiffness and Frictional Energy Dissipation

Abstract

Energy-dissipating mechanical metamaterials possess broad applications where absorbing shocks and isolating vibrations within monolithic and sandwich composite structures are required. This study presents the design of a novel bidirectional mechanical metamaterial with tunable stiffness and energy dissipation. By leveraging the phenomenon of Coulomb friction, the metamaterial dissipates energy when a small gap closes and two walls slide across one another under planar loading. The conceptual design of the metamaterial is parameterized, so the material behavior can be tailored to a particular application. A computational framework is built, using finite element analysis and a multi-objective genetic algorithm to maximize the volumetric energy dissipation such that the unit cell does not undergo plastic deformation. The finite element mesh used in this analysis is first parametrically optimized to minimize simulation time while remaining within a global error threshold. The optimal unit cell is arrayed into a bulk material, formed into a hollow cylinder, and simulated under a compression cycle for different metamaterial densities. A prototype of the hollow cylinder is 3D printed via fused deposition modeling and is tested. Both the simulated and experimental results demonstrate the repeatability of the energy-dissipating property with a strong correlation.

Suture Interface Inspired Self-Recovery Architected Structures for Reusable Energy Absorption

“…Mechanical and recovery properties of CIS structure. (a) Ashby map of CIS structures mechanical properties − design pattern (Figure S20, Supporting Information). (b) Application for lander legs.…”

Flexural Properties of Additively Manufactured Structures Reinforced with Cellular and Fractal Patterns

“…These materials are meticulously engineered at various scales to achieve specific properties and functionalities. By precisely controlling their microstructural arrangement, they can exhibit unique mechanical properties, such as negative Poisson's ratio, [ 1 ] enhanced strength‐to‐weight ratios, [ 2 ] tunability, [ 3 ] multistability, [ 4 ] high stretchability, [ 5 ] and programmable responses. [ 6 ] Due to their unique properties, they can be used in a wide range of applications across various industries, including architecture, sports equipment, soft robotics, aeronautics, aerospace, and automotive.…”

Parrot Beak‐Inspired Metamaterials with Friction and Interlocking Mechanisms 3D/4D Printed in Micro and Macro Scales for Supreme Energy Absorption/Dissipation

“…[ 31 ] In contrast, energy dissipation means the conversion of mechanical energy into heat through irreversible processes. [ 32 ] The thermal dissipation channel also has a very important role to play. [ 33 ]…”

“…[31] In contrast, energy dissipation means the conversion of mechanical energy into heat through irreversible processes. [32] The thermal dissipation channel also has a very important role to play. [33] In summary, here we introduce a new class of bioinspired ZPR metamaterials in cylindrical shapes in micro and macro scales for energy absorption and dissipation features.…”