Metamaterials are macroscopic composites made up of repeating cellular microstructures that vary in geometry, orientation, shape and size in order to produce complex behaviours. The properties of the object derive from the geometry of its microstructure, rather than the material it is made of.
In order to provide a better experience for athletes, companies from the apparel industry like Adidas, Nike and New Balance have been researching metamaterials, addressing specific needs of movement, cushioning, stability and comfort to enable athletes to perform at their best.
Metamaterials are macroscopic composites made up of repeating cellular microstructures that vary in geometry, orientation, shape and size in order to produce complex behaviours. The properties of the object derive from the geometry of its microstructure, rather than the material it is made of.
In order to provide a better experience for athletes, companies from the apparel industry like Adidas, Nike and New Balance have been researching metamaterials, addressing specific needs of movement, cushioning, stability and comfort to enable athletes to perform at their best.
The goal of the lattice structure is to achieve different flexibilities. The fabrication method is layer by layer 3d printing of flexible material. The generating principle of the cell shape revolves around the idea that the amount of flexibility is direct proportional to the volume of material inside one cell. Less material will produce a more flexible structure, more material will produce a more rigid structure.
The cell family consists of cells with the same connection topology. The volume of material inside the cell is controlled by varying the thickness of the members and the thickness of the center. Because the preferred fabrication method is layer by layer 3d printing, there is a continuous interpolation creating an infinite variation of cells.