Page 55 - eBook_Proceedings of the International Conference on Digital Manufacturing V2

Enhanced Bending Strength of PLA Beams with Varied Lattice Infill Structures

between the displacement and strain, as evidenced by the FEA
computations and the equation obtained from regression analysis.
This linearity indicates that the TRI HC structure deforms in a
controlled and predictable way under bending loads, which is
usually a good characteristic for structural applications. The
regression analysis gives a mathematical representation of this
linear relationship so that strain at any displacement in the range
of the simulation can be predicted. This equation can be an
effective design optimisation tool and for the prediction of the
performance of TRI HC lattice structures under various loading
conditions. The linear relationship also shows that the TRI HC
lattice deforms homogeneously, which can be advantageous in the
sense that it prevents localised failure.

Strength to Mass Ratio

One of the main goals of this study was to assess the light-
weighting potential of lattice infills. A structure with a constant
porosity of 70% was chosen for analysis. This mass reduction is
an important consideration in most engineering applications,
especially in aerospace and automotive engineering, where weight
reduction can result in better fuel efficiency and performance. It
is generally desirable, in structural design, to have a component
with minimised weight, but still retain strength as required. The
HX HC lattice achieves a good stress/mass ratio, which indicates
that it constitutes a good combination of mechanical strength and
weight. This is something worth noting when it comes to infill
structure choice since it supports the design of light components
with no compromise of structural integrity. Stress/mass ratio is a
performance indicator, as it gives a numerical value for material
efficiency. The higher the stress/mass ratio, the more stress the
structure can endure for the same material, making it a more
efficient design.

CONCLUSION

This research compared the performance of different lattice infills
subjected to three-point bending conditions. The Triangular

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