Optimization of bio-inspired bi-directionally corrugated panel impact-resistance structures: Numerical simulation and selective laser melting process

A Review of Image-Based Simulation Applications in High-Value Manufacturing

Image-Based Simulation (IBSim) is the process by which a digital representation of a real geometry is generated from image data for the purpose of performing a simulation with greater accuracy than with idealised Computer Aided Design (CAD) based simulations. Whilst IBSim originates in the biomedical field, the wider adoption of imaging for non-destructive testing and evaluation (NDT/NDE) within the High-Value Manufacturing (HVM) sector has allowed wider use of IBSim in recent years. IBSim is invaluable in scenarios where there exists a non-negligible variation between the 'as designed' and 'as manufactured' state of parts. It has also been used for characterisation of geometries too complex to accurately draw with CAD. IBSim simulations are unique to the geometry being imaged, therefore it is possible to perform part-specific virtual testing within batches of manufactured parts. This novel review presents the applications of IBSim within HVM, whereby HVM is the value provided by a manufactured part (or conversely the potential cost should the part fail) rather than the actual cost of manufacturing the part itself. Examples include fibre and aggregate composite materials, additive manufacturing, foams, and interface bonding such as welding. This review is divided into the following sections: Material Characterisation; Characterisation of Manufacturing Techniques; Impact of Deviations from Idealised Design Geometry on Product Design and Performance; Customisation and Personalisation of Products; IBSim in Biomimicry. Finally, conclusions are drawn, and observations made on future trends based on the current state of the literature.

Performance of 3D-Printed Bionic Conch-Like Composite Plate under Low-Velocity Impact

Biological armors can provide an effective protection against predators. In this study, inspired by conch shell, beetle exoskeleton, and nacre, three different types of bionic composites plates were fabricated: Bio-S, Bio-B, and Bio-N, as well as an equivalent monolithic plate formed from the same stiff material designed and manufactured by additive manufacturing, respectively. Low velocity impact tests using drop tower were conducted to study their impact resistance. Experimental findings indicated that the Bio-S composite had superior impact resistance compared with the other bionic composites and the monolithic plate. Furthermore, the influence of the ply angle on the impact resistance of the Bio-S composite plate was investigated. The (0°/30°/0°/30°) arrangement was able to provide the highest impact resistance. Finally, the crack propagation mode in Bio-S composites plates was analyzed, enhancing our understanding of the underlying mechanisms during impact. Such findings may lead to the development of superior lightweight protective structures with improved anti-impact performance.

Bio-inspired strategies for next-generation perovskite solar mobile power sources

Smart electronic devices are becoming ubiquitous due to many appealing attributes including portability, long operational time, rechargeability and compatibility with the user-desired form factor. Integration of mobile power sources (MPS) based on photovoltaic technologies with smart electronics will continue to drive improved sustainability and independence. With high efficiency, low cost, flexibility and lightweight features, halide perovskite photovoltaics have become promising candidates for MPS. Realization of these photovoltaic MPS (PV-MPS) with unconventionally extraordinary attributes requires new 'out-of-box' designs. Natural materials have provided promising designing solutions to engineer properties under a broad range of boundary conditions, ranging from molecules, proteins, cells, tissues, apparatus to systems in animals, plants, and humans optimized through billions of years of evolution. Applying bio-inspired strategies in PV-MPS could be biomolecular modification on crystallization at the atomic/meso-scale, bio-structural duplication at the device/system level and bio-mimicking at the functional level to render efficient charge delivery, energy transport/utilization, as well as stronger resistance against environmental stimuli (e.g., self-healing and self-cleaning). In this review, we discuss the bio-inspired/-mimetic structures, experimental models, and working principles, with the goal of revealing physics and bio-microstructures relevant for PV-MPS. Here the emphasis is on identifying the strategies and material designs towards improvement of the performance of emerging halide perovskite PVs and strategizing their bridge to future MPS.

A Novel Bionic Structure Inspired by Luffa Sponge and Its Cushion Properties

The luffa sponge shows excellent cushion properties. This paper presents a bio-inspired structure of the luffa sponge. The geometry of the bionic structure was built based on the fractal theory by Python programming language and prepared by a 3D printer. Then a series of quasi-static compression tests and finite element analysis were carried out to determine the cushion properties. An optimization design was adopted to determine the best design parameter. The results showed that the influence of length ( a ) on specific energy absorption was more important than the degree ( θ ). The best parameter was found to be length less than 4 mm and angle around 11 degrees. The bionic structure of luffa sponge may show a novel perspective on natural cellular material. The findings demonstrate the great potential for designing hierarchical cellular structures and broad application prospects in the field of cushioning and energy absorption.