A numerical approach for designing functionally stiff triply-periodic-minimal-surface structures

Biomedical implants require stiffnesses matching those of the surrounding bone to avoid stress shielding. Triply-periodic-minimal-surface (TPMS) structures have shown promising characteristics in preventing shielding; however, they are limited allowing for anisotropic stiffness properties that typically inherent bone. This paper presents an approach simplifying a TPMS structure so common geometries can be used approximate it. The wall thickness is varied until desired functional and directional determined through finite element modelling. Validation models provided compression testing laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) produced specimens. displacement response presented along with final structure, which closely matches has potential increase implant longevity improve lives recipients.