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In this paper, we propose a new multicellular design of assembled multi-frusta with alternate orientations and varied taper angles for effective energy absorption applications. Extensive crush test experiments, comprehensive finite-element simulations and analytical modeling were carried out to evaluate the energy absorption performance of the newly proposed multicellular assemblies. The performances of these assemblies are calibrated against conventional assembly of uniform tubes. Two aspects of the work were parametrically examined. The first was concerned with the effect of the frusta taper angle, while the second was concerned with the multi-frusta layout on the energy absorption of the proposed multi-frusta assembled structures. The results reveal that the face centered square layout with an appropriately selected taper angle possesses the optimal high specific energy absorption, low peak force, and smooth crushing force curve, which makes it a crashworthy device.

The article introduces a mathematical model of the physical growth mechanism which is based on the relationships of the physical and geometrical parameters of the growing object, in particular its surface and volume. This growth mechanism works in cooperation with the biochemical and other growth factors. We use the growth equation, which mathematically describes this mechanism, and study its adequacy to real growth phenomena. The growth model very accurately fits experimental data on growth of Amoeba, Schizosaccharomyces pombe, E.coli. Study discovered a new growth suppression mechanism created by certain geometry of the growing object. This result was proved by experimental data. The existence of the growth suppression phenomenon confirms the real workings and universality of the growth mechanism and the adequacy of its mathematical description. The introduced equation is also applicable to the growth of multicellular organisms and tumors. Another important result is that the growth equation introduces mathematical characterization of geometrical forms that can biologically grow. The material is supported by software application, which is released to public domain.