Kinematic Analysis and Geometric/Material Design Rules for "Human Fit" Flexible Protective Materials
Development of a hierarchical computational model based on physiological morphometric variation of units shape and corresponding biomechanical flexibility, resulting in flexible hybrid designs for protection of complex hosting.
This research project investigates how animal exoskeletons utilize morphometry (shape) and materiality to balance protection, tissue damage tolerance, mobility, and flexibility, thereby maximizing survivability from predatory and environmental threats. X-ray micro-computed tomography is used to image the exoskeletons; the 3D reconstructed data is utilized to develop a parametric model offering controlled variation of the scale unit geometry based on the topology of an underlying surface. Implementing these principles to a different functional domain (e.g. the human body) requires rethinking of both the overall functional frame and the local relative kinematics of units. Macroscopic 3D-printed prototypes are fabricated to include functionally graded materials, heterogeneous structures, and 3D inter-unit connectivity; these prototypes are experimentally tested to optimize biomechanical flexibility alongside maximum fit and protective coverage around joints. This interdisciplinary approach, which integrates design, comparative and evolutionary biology, materials science, mechanical engineering and digital fabrication, holds enormous potential for transformative and cost-cutting technology for protective systems in the U.S. Military that increase soldier survivability.
