Crashworthiness of a novel bionic quasi-honeycomb structure based on variable cross-section design

To enhance the energy absorption of thin-walled structures, we propose a novel variable cross-section bionic quasi-honeycomb structure (VCBQH), inspired by bone and bamboo. This design improves energy absorption and reduces peak collision force (PCF). Through quasi-static compression tests and finite element simulations, we compared the energy absorption characteristics of 0-2 layers VCBQH with a traditional honeycomb structure (TH). Results show that increasing layers significantly reduces PCF, with VCBQH-2 exhibiting a 23.33% decrease compared to TH and a 44.54% decrease compared to VCBQH-0. We also found that increasing wall thickness and layers enhances specific energy absorption (SEA), though it may increase PCF. However, optimizing angles can mitigate this issue. Under the equal mass, the VCBQH-2 exhibits a 21.50% increase in SEA with a concurrent 26.04% reduction in PCF as the angle is adjusted. or VCBQH-2, adjusting the angle results in a 21.50% increase in SEA and a 26.04% reduction in PCF.