Energy-absorbing lattice structures: design, simulation and manufacturing evaluation

This study investigates the design, numerical analysis and manufacturing-oriented evaluation of two-dimensional energy-absorbing lattice structures. Several lattice geometries, including conventional honeycomb and non-conventional auxetic layouts, were modelled using CAD tools and analysed through static and explicit dynamic finite element simulations. The mechanical response was evaluated in terms of deformation behaviour, reaction forces and energy dissipation. Results indicate that auxetic and anti-tetrachiral lattices exhibit more progressive deformation and reduced transmitted forces compared with honeycomb configurations. Manufacturing aspects were assessed through additive manufacturing simulations, providing a first screening of feasible geometries. The proposed workflow supports the selection of lattice families suitable for further experimental validation.