Mechanical characterization of FDM printed bio-inspired double arrow head structures

Abstract

Biomimetic structures draw their inspiration from nature. Biomimetic structures aim to improve strength, flexibility, and energy efficiency. Safety equipment, aircraft, automotive, and medical equipment incorporate biomimetic structures. In recent days, biomimetic structures were modified by researchers to enhance their mechanical properties. In this study, novel double arrowhead structures were manufactured using material extrusion technology, and the quasi-static compression tests were carried out in the Universal Testing Machine. Finally, the results demonstrated that the highest compressive strength is 13.29 MPa recorded on a modified novel solid square double arrowhead structure. Once more, the solid square double arrowhead structure has more specific strength than every other structure. A greater specific strength indicates that a structure is capable of withstanding greater forces while minimising its weight. In order to provide direction for the practical applications of lightweight materials, this research compares the truss double arrowhead structures with the solid double arrow head structures.