| Abstract Scope |
Fail-safe design is a critical principle for many engineering structures. In fail-safe optimization of continuum structures, this objective is typically achieved by predefining localized regions, referred to as patch regions, where fracture is assumed to occur through material removal, followed by a minimax optimization against the most critical loading scenarios. However, existing studies still face several important limitations. This paper proposes a data-driven fail-safe design framework based on tailoring the homogenized properties embedded in the effective stiffness tensors of non-uniform lattice structures. Because each unit cell contains multiple structural members, such lattices provide a natural platform for structural redundancy. The proposed approach significantly reduces computational cost, integrates naturally with other failure-oriented objectives such as stress minimization, and exhibits excellent scalability for lattice structures with giga-scale heterogeneity. Finally, fracture simulations are performed to evaluate the designed structures, with emphasis on their ultimate-load response, damage tolerance, and overall toughness after crack initiation. |