| abstract |
A cellular composite laminate structure ( 101 ) adapted for efficient energy absorption is provided along with the related use and method of manufacture. The structure uses rigid cellular core layers ( 102, 103 ) designed to remain rigid during impact loading to channel an imposed compressive force into plastic deformation of deforming sacrificial layers ( 116 ). The rigid cellular core layers ( 102, 103 ) are arranged such that they will interpenetrate during impact loading while the deforming sacrificial layers ( 116 ) are arranged such that they will impede interpenetration of the rigid cellular core layers ( 102, 103 ) and be subjected to tensile deformation only. The rigid cellular core layers ( 102, 103 ) and deforming sacrificial layers ( 116 ) can be formed to create two-dimensional cellular sheet or three-dimensional cellular topology structures. The deforming sacrificial layers ( 116 ) can be connected at various points to the rigid cellular core layers ( 102, 103 ) or can be connected only at the periphery of the overall structure. Higher strength, rigid materials are contemplated for the rigid cellular core layers ( 102, 103 ) while ductile materials are contemplated for the deforming sacrificial layers ( 116 ). |