Research on the energy absorption properties of origami-based honeycombs

It has been demonstrated that origami structures can be successfully used for honeycomb structures. And the excellent energy absorption properties of origami structures make them a promising candidate for use in cushioning when paired with honeycomb structures. Consequently, the honeycomb structure was recreated using origami structures to generate new specimens, aiming to reduce the initial peak force under out-of-plane crushing while maintaining the energy absorption properties. The specimens were created using 3D printing technology, and experiments with quasi-static flat pressing were carried out. The properties of the origami-based honeycomb were investigated during out-of-plane crushing, with an emphasis on its energy absorption properties. Additionally, the compressive properties of the origami-based honeycomb are compared with those of traditional re-entrant honeycomb in z-axial directions. To further investigate the properties of the origami-based honeycomb, a validated model was developed in Abaqus, and the accuracy of the finite element model’s forecast was confirmed. The results show excellent lateral material shrinkage under axial compression, which is an obvious negative Poisson’s ratio (NPR) effect, and a distinct hardening process with stiffness increases when the origami-based honeycomb structure experiences densification. Moreover, compared to the traditional re-entrant honeycomb structure, the origami-based honeycomb has a lower peak crushing force and a smoother plateau stress curve, making it an ideal material for protective structural applications. Increasing the height H or decreasing the forward length V are effective methods for increasing the structure’s specific energy absorption (SEA). Additionally, different configurations will have distinct consequences for the structure. Compared to ordinary origami-based honeycombs, the honeycomb with different configurations has superior energy absorption properties and can also achieve stiffness jumps and segmental self-locking.