It has been demonstrated theoretically that under certain loading conditions hierarchical structures hold a distinct advantage in efficiency over more conventional designs. Here a particular hierarchical design is studied, and we show that the power-law scaling relations between loading parameters and volume of material required to make a stable structure can be varied systematically. Through computer simulation, we construct mechanism diagrams depicting likely failure modes for a given geometry, which give insight into the optimisation. Using rapid prototyping technologies, the same structure is fabricated and mechanical testing undertaken; the results are compared to theoretical and finite element models. © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
CITATION STYLE
Rayneau-Kirkhope, D., Mao, Y., Farr, R., & Segal, J. (2012). Hierarchical space frames for high mechanical efficiency: Fabrication and mechanical testing. Mechanics Research Communications, 46, 41–46. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mechrescom.2012.06.011
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