Theoretical and numerical analysis of the folding mechanism of vertex-based hierarchical honeycomb structure

This study presents numerical and theoretical investigation for the vertex-based hierarchical honeycomb structure subjected to axial compression. Mechanical behavior as well as predictable formulas were explored based on folded element and Minimal Energy Principle. Parametric studies were numerically conducted with different scale ratio, and the influence of wall thickness on mechanical performance was determined. Good agreement was observed between the numerical results and theoretical solutions, which validates the analytical model well. Furthermore, deformation mode comparisons were conducted between vertex-based hierarchical honeycomb and other filled-type honeycomb structures. Evident promotion on energy absorption was obtained for vertex-based hierarchical honeycomb.