MSLattice: A free software for generating uniform and graded lattices based on triply periodic minimal surfaces

Abstract

Nature-inspired materials based on triply periodic minimal surfaces (TPMS) are very attractive in many engineering disciplines because of their topology-driven properties. However, their adoption across different research and engineering fields is limited by the complexity of their design process. In this work, we present MSLattice, a software that allows users to design uniform, and functionally grade lattices and surfaces based on TPMS using two approaches, namely, the sheet networks and solid networks. The software allows users to control the type of TPMS topology, relative density, cell size, relative density grading, cell size grading, and hybridization between lattices. These features make MSLattice a complete design platform for users in different engineering disciplines, especially in applications that employ additive manufacturing (3D printing) and computational modeling. We demonstrate the capability of the software using several examples.