Topological Interlocking as a Design Principle Forhybrid Materials

Abstract

Materials segmented into non-bonded blocks offer important advantages over conventionally designed hybrid materials. As the blocks have some freedom of movement, such materials can withstand vibrations and efficiently dissipate vibration energy, while possessing high resistance to fracture propagation. The absence of binding between the blocks makes it possible to combine blocks made of dissimilar, even incompatible materials. To maintain the integrity of such materials, we propose to use the principle of topological interlocking whereby each block is kept in place by kinematic constraints imposed by the neighbouring blocks. This is achieved by special arrangements of blocks shaped as one of the platonic solids or through engineered contact surfaces. The peripheral blocks need to be constrained either by an external frame or by cables running through the assembly. The constraining force can serve as a parameter controlling the properties of the hybrid.