A stability maintenance method and experiments for multi-player tandem aluminium honeycomb array

This paper presents an effective full-scale stability maintenance method for multi-player tandem honeycomb array (MTHA) under out-of-plane compression, by developing an effective multi-function separator with key design technologies in intermeshing restriction, direction guiding and self correction. For this purpose, series experiments were carried out respectively at quasi-static and dynamic states. The corresponding results certify this design's success and perfection with excellent mechanical performances and stable compression track. A special phenomenon for MTHA was observed that the compression sequence is uncertain. Fortunately, using the former technologies and separator component, all honeycomb cores finally contribute their full energy-absorbing capacities. At last, theoretical derivation based on slender rod critical failure theory gave a reasonable prediction for longer honeycomb array, and provided a certification for higher energy absorption capacity device design.