Engineers Replicate Nature’s Mesostructures With 3D-Printing

Engineers and researchers are using additive manufacturing to recreate nature-inspired mesostructures, building internal porous lattices that produce lighter, stronger parts across industries. The article cites roots in 1980s patents and lab work since about 2000, notes adoption in footwear, helmets and aerospace, and describes AI-driven simulations and design optimization to tune stiffness, energy absorption and material savings.