Composite Micro-Lattice Parts with Isotropic Stiffness
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing composite materials with periodic micro-lattice architectures exhibit anisotropic mechanical behavior, limiting their application due to directional dependence of stiffness and brittleness.
Innovation Solution
A method for manufacturing a two- or three-dimensional part with a composite architecture comprising at least two different micro-lattices connected to each other, where the first micro-lattice is isotropic with a Delaunay triangulation architecture and the second micro-lattice is isotropic with a Voronoï tessellation architecture, allowing for local modulation of mechanical properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If periodic micro-lattice architecture is used, then stiffness-to-density ratio is improved, but mechanical behavior becomes anisotropic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the micro-lattice structure into multiple unit cells with different topologies (e.g., octet-truss, Kelvin foam, BCC) arranged in a periodic pattern. Each unit cell type contributes different mechanical characteristics, and their combination creates a composite architecture that maintains high stiffness-to-density ratio while achieving isotropic mechanical behavior through spatial distribution of anisotropic elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs asymmetric arrangement of different micro-lattice unit cells in specific spatial configurations. By strategically placing unit cells with different topologies in asymmetric positions within the periodic structure, the overall architecture achieves isotropic mechanical properties despite the inherent anisotropy of individual periodic units, thereby resolving the contradiction between stiffness optimization and mechanical isotropy.
2Strength
If different individual materials are used for composite architecture, then mechanical properties are improved, but environmental impact and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves different mechanical properties in various regions of the composite architecture by changing the topological parameters of the micro-lattice unit cells rather than changing materials. By varying unit cell connectivity, beam thickness, and cell size across different spatial zones, the structure attains localized mechanical property optimization (different stiffness, strength, and density) while remaining monolithic, thus avoiding environmental and cost issues associated with multiple materials.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a method of manufacturing a two- or three-dimensional part having a composite architecture with at least two different micro-lattices connected to each other, comprising the following steps:performing (100) a computer-implemented design step comprising the following steps:A) defining (100A) a domain representing said part to be manufactured, then defining a first sub-domain for a first micro-lattice and a second sub-domain, complementary to the first sub-domain, to delimit a second micro-lattice different from the first micro-lattice;B) defining (100B), over the whole domain, the coordinates of the generating centres for the two micro-lattices,C) defining (100C) the first micro-latticeD) defining (100D) the second micro-latticeE) connecting (100E) the second micro-lattice to the first micro-lattice.the design step also defining a shape and associated transverse dimensions for each micro-beam, and then:manufacturing (200) the architecture designed in this way.