Design and analysis of bio-inspired 3D printing body armor for neck support and protection

Abstract

The thesis presents the design and analysis process of a bio-inspired 3D printing body armor for neck support and protection. There are numerous examples of the structural skin or body armor among animals that generates both cranial protection and torso support. In this thesis, the mechanical behavior of the natural structure regarding the specific animal subject will be reviewed and studied using bio-inspired, flexible, design-for-manufacturing armor prototypes designed using computational 3D modeling to tackle a particular problem in real-life body protection. The design process will be demonstrated following the design thinking methodology with the emphasis on user empathy and experience design. Analysis of the prototype's flexibility and strength will be investigated to show how morphometry can enhance the architecture of material. And the accessibility will be researched under quantitative testing and qualitative interviews to the potential beneficiary. The thesis will also explore how the computer aid design can be improved based on bio-inspired analysis and potential mechanical testing. The long-term objective is to use bio-inspired design to develop an additive manufacturing technique for product design to accelerate the iteration process and increase product efficiency.