Fabrication of Isogrids by Conventional and Unconventional Techniques: A Comparative Review Study

Abstract

In this research paper a comparison is drawn among different techniques of manufacturing grid stiffened structures, i.e., isogrid panels manufactured using non-conventional manufacturing techniques such as Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) over existing conventional methods such as milling; by summarizing existing success analyses. These Isogrids/Grid stiffened structures are primarily building blocks used in aerospace applications such as rocket shells, satellites, space station walls and also for other structures that require additional strengthening such as armor shells, wall structures for mega buildings such as stadiums, domes, or even spider webs. A comprehensive analysis is made for different aspects of these advantages and the role of non-conventional techniques is discussed. Moreover, a hypothesis is put forward regarding design optimization and evolution in the future. The isogrids are upcoming research area which has the capacity to strengthen the aerospace, nuclear and other allied sectors.