Energy absorption performance of woven metallic lattices with orthogonal spiral wires under quasi-static compression

Abstract

Woven metallic lattice (WML) structures are gaining attention for their beneficial mechanical properties, such as low weight and special energy absorption capability. They hold potential for diverse applications, including energy absorption components in aerospace. Drawing inspiration from the traditional double-arrow lattice, this study proposes a novel WML design featuring multi-plateau stresses. The deformation behavior of this structure under compression was investigated using finite element analysis and experimental methods. Three gradient structures defined by the different layer arrangements along load direction associated with specific structure variables, namely positive gradient (PG), negative gradient (NG), and hybrid gradient (HG), were introduced, along with an examination of their mechanical properties. The study explored the influence of key parameters of the cell structure on compression characteristics. Findings suggest that enhancing cell vertex angle and wire diameter can improve energy absorption, while the opposite holds true for cell base angle. Among the gradient structures analyzed, the PG WML structure demonstrates optimal energy absorption due to its dual-plateau stress characteristics. The NG WML structure is noteworthy for its uniform lattice deformation during initial compression stages, which is crucial for precision engineering with subtle deformation control strategies. Lastly, the deformation pattern of the HG WML structure during compression progresses from low to high strength.