Damage propagation in 2d beam lattices: 2. Design of an isotropic fault-tolerant lattice

The paper demonstrates a rational design of an isotropic heterogeneous beam lattice that is fault-tolerant and energy-absorbing. Combining triangular and hexagonal structures, we calculate elastic moduli of obtained hybrid heterogeneous structures; simulate the development of flaws in that composite lattice subjected to a uniform uniaxial deformation; investigate its damage evolution; measure various characteristics of damage that estimate fault tolerance; discuss the trade-off between stiffness and fault tolerance. A design is found that develops a cloud of small evenly spread flaws instead of a crack.