Absorbed energy and maximum force analysis of tube-shaped surface faceted lattice structures under compression loading

Abstract

Tubular form Lattices have become popular for improving structural efficiency in various engineering applications. Surface-faced lattice structures provide increased mechanical qualities as well as enhanced functionality. The study presents an extensive analysis of the tubular design of surface-faceted lattice structures, along with the optimization of cell size and strut thickness by considering design criteria. The methodology includes several critical stages: design and printing lattices, compressive tests, phenomorphological investigation, absorbed energy examination, result visualization, and optimization. The novelty of this study lies in its comprehensive examination of the compressive mechanical properties of tubular surface-faceted lattice structures, as well as the determination of optimal results through the systematic evaluation of lattice structure design parameters using the Taguchi method. The designs generated in the SpaceClaim program underwent fabrication through a layer-by-layer approach utilizing an MSLA (Masked Stereolithography Apparatus) process. The analysis of the design factors was conducted using ANOVA, and optimization was achieved through the Taguchi method. The results indicated that Run 2, with triangular-faceted samples of 0.6 mm strut thickness and 3 mm cell size, achieved the highest maximum force of about 550 N and absorbed energy of 2.8 J. Triangular samples exhibited better performance than hexagonal ones. All design parameters affected maximum force and absorbed energy, according to ANOVA. The most effective parameter on the maximum force and absorbed energy was the lattice type. Maximum force and absorbed energy increased with decreasing cell size and increasing strut thickness, according to the Taguchi study.