Numerical simulation and experimental study on the compression performance of a double layer cross-lattice-core sandwich structure

Abstract

Lattice sandwich structures are widely used in many engineering fields for their excellent mechanical properties, such as aerospace, transportation, construction and so on. In this paper, a new type of double layer cross-lattice-core sandwich structure is proposed. Firstly, based on the nonlinear finite element software ABAQUS, a finite element numerical simulation analysis is processed to the sandwich structure unite cell under flat compression. The deflection pattern, load-displacement curve and internal energy-displacement curve are obtained to discuss the compression performance of the unite cell with some specific geometric parameters, such as arm length ratio, clamped angle and thickness of the cross-lattice-core. It is found that the compression performance of the lattice sandwich structure with an arm length ratio of 1 and an included angle of 90° is optimal. The energy absorption effect decreases slightly with the increases of the arm length ratio increases, which will be greatly reduced when the core angle is lower than 90°. Then the unite cell model of the structure is prepared using 3D printing technology, and its compression performance is investigated by flat compression tests and verified in comparison with the numerical analysis results. Finally, the load-bearing property of the structure is further verified by compression analysis of a plate structure consisting of several unite cells. The results provide a reference for the design and engineering application of the structure.