Inverse Cellular Lattices

The deformation mechanisms of classic lattice topologies (e.g., Cubic, Diamond, Octet, and Double Pyramid lattices) and their specific density-dependent mechanical properties have already been thoroughly explored by the scientific community. This study details a novel approach to designing lattices by generating the topologies that correspond to the voids of these classic lattice designs. This is achieved by using a Boolean operation performed to create a solid topology from the original voided fraction. The resultant topologies are proposed to be named Inverse lattices. Static structural numerical analysis shows that this process may generate significant changes in the lattice deformation mechanism and stiffness. For this effect, elastic properties such as the Specific modulus and Apparent Poisson’s ratio were determined as a function of Specific density. Specifically, for Octet and Double Pyramid inverse lattice topologies, results show a reduction in stiffness by promoting a change to a bending deformation mechanism. However, the inverse Diamond inverse lattice topologies present a higher stiffness (i.e., specific modulus) relative to the original classic design. This new lattice model may be a promising design for future lattice applications.