Performance of bio-mimetic cellular structures under impulsive loads

Abstract

Re-entrant and honeycomb cellular structures have been extensively investigated by researchers in terms of mitigating the devastating effects of impulsive loadings. However, these types of geometries have been observed to buckle locally in the vicinity of the load, thereby limiting their effectiveness as protective structures. Their performance can be enhanced by mimicking naturally occurring cellular structures, including that of the porcupine quill, which is studied here. The quill possesses a unique cellular structure that protects the porcupine by perforating the skin of an attacking predator. Several distinct features have been identified in the lightweight quill that effectively counte..