Abstract

Biomimetic structures and materials for energy absorption

Statement of the Problem: It is widely known that the availability of lightweight structures with excellent energy absorption capacity is essential for numerous engineering applications. Inspired by many biological structures in nature, bio-inspired structures have been proved to exhibit a significant improvement over conventional structures in energy absorption capacity. Therefore, use of the biomimetic approach for designing novel lightweight structures with excellent energy absorption capacity has been increasing in engineering fields in recent years. In this presentation, a comprehensive overview of recent advances in the development of bio-inspired structures for energy absorption applications at the Swinburne University Technology, Australia is presented. Firstly, I describe the unique features and remarkable mechanical properties of biological structures such as durian shell, pomelo peel, which can be mimicked to design efficient energy absorbers. I exposed the role of mesocarp layers and thorns in protecting the flesh of durians as well as the mesocarp layer in pomelo during their drop impact on the ground in terms of energy absorption. Next, I will discuss the structural designs as well as the energy absorption characteristics of current bio-inspired structures with different configurations and structures, including multi-cell tubes, frusta, sandwich panels, honeycombs. For instance, I proposed a novel tubular corrugated configuration mimicking the coconut tree profile in an attempt to enhance the energy absorption, minimize the initial peak crushing force, and stabilize the crushing process. I also proposed and fabricated bio-inspired multi-layer graded foam-filled structures mimicking the bone structures. Moreover, a novel bio-inspired honeycomb sandwich panel based on the microstructure of a woodpecker’s beak and a bio-inspired multi-cell tubes are presented. Besides, a theoretical model to predict the mean crushing force of the bioinspired structures under axial dynamic impact loading based on the plastic deformation theory is developed. Finally, contemporary challenges and future directions for bio-inspired structures are discussed.


Author(s):

Ngoc San Ha



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