Dynamic behaviour of spiderweb-inspired lattice structures for enhanced crashworthiness and energy absorption under impact loading

• Developed a novel spiderweb-inspired lattice structures using Bezier curve modifications. • Performed dynamic crush and ballistic impact simulations in ABAQUS/Explicit. • Achieved >90% energy absorption under ballistic and dynamic crush simulations. • Established the high impact-resilience of spiderweb-inspired lattice geometries. • Demonstrated strong potential for lightweight and impact-resistant applications in both aerospace and automotive industries. This comprehensive investigation focuses on the numerical analysis of spiderweb-inspired lattice structures, precisely modelled using advanced Bézier curve-based spline geometries to accurately replicate the complex radial and spiral networks observed in natural spider webs. Two distinct unit cell configurations were developed: a basic model inspired by the key geometric features of natural spider webs and an enhanced variant created using smooth Bézier curve–based spline geometries. These configurations were carefully constructed using CAD tools and subsequently analysed using ABAQUS/Explicit. The simulation framework is based on bending tests used to validate models reported in the literature. After validation, the proposed models were tested under medium to high-velocity impact conditions to assess their crashworthiness and energy absorption capabilities, offering clear insights into structural response under real-world impact conditions. The primary research objectives are to systematically quantify peak stress responses, energy absorption capabilities and detailed deformation pattern characteristics across different loading conditions and structural configurations. The modified sandwich lattice demonstrated high impact resistance, with controlled deformation. In all investigated cases, the back face sheet remained entirely intact, while the core sustained marginal damage preventing complete perforation of the sandwich structure. Furthermore, it is found that the unit cell and sandwich structure successfully absorb the crush and ballistic impact loads at 25 kJ and 500 J, with a peak efficiency of around 90%. The proposed structural design demonstrates strong potential for application in both aerospace and automotive sectors, particularly in enhancing resistance to high-velocity projectile impacts and improving the crashworthiness of vehicle components during collisions. Dynamic Behaviour of Spiderweb-Inspired Lattice Structures for Enhanced Crashworthiness and Energy Absorption Under Impact Loading were investigated.