Self-aware active metamaterial cell 3D-printed in a single process

Abstract

Metamaterials are capable of attenuating undesired mechanical vibrations within a narrow band-gap frequency range; however, real-world applications often require adjustments due to varying loads and frequency content. This study introduces a self-aware, thermo-active metamaterial, 3D-printed in a single process using thermoplastic material extrusion. The adjustment of the natural frequency and band-gap region is achieved through resistive heating of conductive paths, which alters the stiffness of the base cell’s resonator. Additionally, these conductive paths facilitate the detection of the resonator’s excitation frequency and temperature, thereby eliminating the need for external sensors. This dynamic adaptability, experimentally demonstrated by achieving a band-gap tuning range from 505 Hz to 445 Hz with a 17 °C temperature difference, highlights the potential of these metamaterials for applications in smart structures across the aerospace, civil, and automotive industries.