This article describes methods of reducing stiffness in stiffness anisotropic structures and the challenges that may arise.

This article introduces a method for calculating the deformation behavior of compliant mechanisms utilizing basic material mechanics and rigid body mechanics, using uniform beam and slider structures (parallel-guiding mechanism) as examples.

This article introduces a case study of material substitution design conducted by Nature Architects. As an introduction, we will explain what material substitution design is and what its advantages are. We will also describe a design example similar to what we have actually done for our client work, from design concept to detailed design through optimization. (Text: Oshima, Design/Engineering: Natsume)

The adidas "4DFWD" shoe, with a special 3D printed structure embedded in the midsole, has the function of converting the force of a step into propulsive force. This series of articles interprets this function as a mechanical metamaterial that converts compression into shear and explains how to design it. In this article, we will design a mechanical metamaterial with macro physical properties that convert compression to shear, measure its macro physical properties using the homogenization method, and conduct experiments by actually compressing a 3D printed specimen.

The adidas "4DFWD" shoe, which has a special 3D-printed structure embedded in the midsole, has the function of converting stepping force into propulsive force. This article interprets this function as a mechanical metamaterial that converts compression into shear and explains how to design it. This article explains the macro physical properties that convert compression into shear from the viewpoint of material mechanics.

DFM PULSE, our vibration isolation solution, provides design solutions for vibration isolation devices for a wide range of components. Technical explanations will be given on the design of structural solutions to surging, which is a problem in vibration isolation structures.

DFM PULSE, our vibration isolation solution, provides design solutions for vibration isolation devices for a wide range of components. Technical explanations will be given on the design of structural solutions to surging, which is a problem in vibration isolation structures.

Quasi-Zero Stiffness structure is known as a technology to solve the trade-off between stiffness, mass, and vibration isolation introduced in the previous article. A search for "Quasi-Zero Stiffness" will turn up several papers (e.g., [1], [2], [3]), so I will give an overview and introduce the solution in NatureArchitects.

DFM PULSE, our vibration isolation solution, provides design solutions for vibration isolation devices for a wide range of components. The article will introduce the basic statics and dynamics of why a metamaterial approach to vibration isolation may be necessary instead of an existing component.

Nature Architects' technical blog aims to share useful information for the manufacturing industry, focusing on technical areas related to our company. In this first installment of a three-part series, our representative, Mr. Oshima, will introduce three important topics related to metamaterials.