Zero-Poisson-Ratio Honeycomb Interlocking Assembly

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing zero-Poisson-ratio honeycomb structures face challenges in achieving high forming quality due to defects in continuous fiber reinforced composites prepared by 3D printing, particularly with resin matrix composite materials, leading to issues like matrix cracking and inability to control layup angles.

Innovation Solution

A zero-Poisson-ratio honeycomb structure is designed with specific geometrical parameters and manufactured using an interlocking assembly process with resin matrix composites, involving stages of molding, cutting, and assembly to enhance structural performance and maintain zero-Poisson-ratio characteristics.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If 3D printing technology is used to manufacture zero-Poisson-ratio honeycomb structures, then complex topological configurations can be achieved, but matrix cracking and inability to control layup angles occur in continuous fiber reinforced composites

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomplex topological configurationVSAvoidforming quality
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The honeycomb structure is divided into multiple unit cells that can be manufactured separately and then assembled together. This segmentation allows each unit cell to be produced with controlled fiber layup angles using conventional composite manufacturing processes, avoiding the matrix cracking issues associated with 3D printing while still achieving the overall complex topological configuration through precise assembly of the segmented units.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The fiber reinforcement layers are pre-aligned and pre-consolidated with controlled layup angles before the final assembly process. This preliminary action ensures that the continuous fibers are properly oriented to withstand the expected loads, preventing matrix cracking during service while maintaining the complex zero-Poisson-ratio topology through the subsequent assembly of pre-prepared units.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Strength

If zero-Poisson-ratio honeycomb structure is designed with specific geometrical parameters, then mechanical properties can be regulated and controlled, but structural complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemechanical propertyVSAvoidstructural complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The mechanical properties of the honeycomb structure are controlled by systematically varying key geometrical parameters such as wall thickness, cell size, and wall angles within a standardized unit cell design. This parameter-based approach allows regulation of strength and stiffness characteristics while maintaining a relatively simple base topology, avoiding the need for complex structural modifications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

A universal unit cell design is developed that can achieve different mechanical properties through parameter variation rather than structural complexity. The same basic zero-Poisson-ratio topology serves multiple functions by adjusting geometrical parameters, allowing the structure to meet different strength requirements without increasing fundamental structural complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS11707895B2Zero-Poisson-ratio honeycomb structure and interlocking assembly manufacturing method thereof
Publication Date: 2023.07.25 DALIAN UNIV OF TECH
  • US11707895B2 patent drawing
  • US11707895B2 patent drawing
  • US11707895B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A zero-Poisson-ratio honeycomb structure and an interlocking assembly manufacturing method thereof are provided. The honeycomb structure is formed by combining a four-pointed star shaped structure and horizontal and vertical honeycomb wall arrays at star corners. The zero-Poisson-ratio honeycomb structure not only has the zero-Poisson-ratio characteristic, but also can achieve respective design of in-plane and out-of-plane mechanical properties. Meanwhile, due to the existence of the horizontal honeycomb walls and the vertical honeycomb walls, the connection of multiple honeycomb walls at angular points in the honeycomb structure is avoided. Moreover, a novel manufacturing mode is provided for the honeycomb structure in addition to prepare the honeycomb structure by utilizing a 3D printing process. The honeycomb structure can be manufactured by combining an interlocking assembly process with resin matrix composites. The performance of the honeycomb structure is further improved at the material level.