Research progress on mechanical performance optimization and functional design of additive manufactured biomimetic structures

Biomimetic structures can partly overcome the shortcomings of traditional structures and materials, thereby achieving high performance and diversified functions. Additive manufacturing (3D printing) technology can achieve the formation of complex structures, making it possible to prepare biomimetic structures with superior mechanical properties and more diverse functions. With the continuous development of additive manufacturing technology, the combination of additive manufacturing technology and biomimetic structure design is receiving increasing interests. Simultaneously, additive manufactured biomimetic structures have good mechanical properties and functions, that has attracted attentions in the fields such as aerospace, rail transportation, mechanical industry, and biomedical engineering, etc. This article summarizes the research progress on 3D printed biomimetic structures in recent years, majorly focusing on mechanical performance optimization and functionality. The optimized mechanical properties mainly include energy absorption, high strength, and high stiffness, while the functions are related to sensing, driving, medicine and so on. Finally, this article provides an outlook on the advantages, existing research limitations, and future development of additive manufactured biomimetic structures. © 2024 Beijing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics (BUAA). All rights reserved.