Investigating the dynamic compression response of elastomeric, additively manufactured fluid-filled structures via experimental and finite element analyses

This study evaluates a fluid-filled, closed-cell lattice as novel route to reducing peak acceleration in impact environments. A conical structure was designed and built using fused filament fabrication. One manufactured hollow (100% air), another 70% filled with water (50% by height) third 100% water-filled. Peak evaluated performing 4.1 kg impacts at 1, 2, 3 m/s. Impacts were then simulated shell solid finite element analysis models, employing the smooth particle hydrodynamic method for surface-based fluid-filled cavity air. The air-filled, conventional structures achieved lowest accelerations lower energies, however, infill improved performance higher energies. For low medium modelling accurately experimental trends, although latter is more computationally expensive. Solid only viable solution scenarios achieving structural densification, due inaccuracies shell-based models caused inter-surface penetrations. work has demonstrated that provide promising approach reduce so enhanced protection, whilst also presenting computational pathway will enable efficient design of new structures.