Hybrid Beam-3D Continuum Nonlinear Modeling of Architected Truss Metamaterials
Insights into Joint Geometry
S. Demian (TU Delft - Aerospace Engineering)
Bianca Giovanardi, PhD – Mentor (TU Delft - Aerospace Engineering)
S. Kumar – Mentor (TU Delft - Mechanical Engineering)
S.R. Turteltaub – Graduation committee member (TU Delft - Aerospace Engineering)
K. Masania – Graduation committee member (TU Delft - Aerospace Engineering)
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Abstract
Architected truss metamaterials are ultra-light materials built from repeating networks of small, interconnected beams. By tailoring this internal geometry, they can achieve combinations of stiffness and energy absorption that are difficult to obtain with conventional materials or foams, particularly at very low density.
Previous research has shown that their mechanical performance depends not only on the beams themselves, but also on parameters such as material choice, manufacturing method, lattice architecture, and the shape of the joints where beams meet. This thesis extends existing joint-resolved modeling approaches beyond the linear elastic range into the nonlinear regime, where large deformations and buckling become important. To do so, it develops a hybrid finite element framework in which joints are represented by detailed 3D solid elements and struts by efficient beam elements, combining improved physical realism with manageable computational cost. The thesis presents a nonlinear solver, validation metrics, an accuracy and computational efficiency study, and outlines future developments toward monolithic and data-driven modeling approaches.
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