Mechanical relationships between the fiber-lamination methods and the structural functions of Oryctes Rhinoceros Horns

Abstract

To learn about the fiber-lamination design methods of light-weighted cylindrical composites, this study investigates the relationships between the exoskeleton of Oryctes Rhinoceros horns and their structural functions: 1) The odd and even numbered exterior layers of the fibers of the horn are oriented at 20° and 150°, respectively, and the change of the fiber angles outside-in suits the mechanical needs of horns; 2) O. Rhinoceros horn has a flat top cross-section with a mellow root, which increases the bending performance of the root and can make the top thrust easily into trees. 3) The maximum average orientation degree of the back is 0.93, which is beneficial for the tensile properties in the y-direction. By comparison, the fibers in the front are oriented primarily in the x-direction, which is suitable for resisting horizontal forces.