A Modeling Method for Heterogeneous Lattice Structures based on Convolution Surface

Abstract

Introduction: With the rapid advancement of the multi-material additive manufacturing (MMAM) technology, the heterogeneous lattice structures (HLSs) comprising the multiphase materials with gradual variations have become feasible and accessible to the industry[1, 2]. Varying material distribution in an object may also help designers address a broader spectrum of design challenges [3, 4]. HLSs often prevail over their traditional homogeneous counterparts in certain performances such as mechanical, thermal, electrical, or any combination of them. Traditional limitations, such as stress concentrations or nonuniform thermal expansion due to material incompatibility, can be avoided with a continuous gradual composition of multiple materials[5, 6].