Lattice structures have long been associated with aerospace, and for good reason, they offer the ultimate balance of strength and weight reduction. But that doesn’t mean they’re limited to space-bound components. Today, lattice geometries are breaking into every industry that values efficiency: from automotive and medical to consumer products and energy systems.
At their core, lattice structures distribute loads through a network of interconnected struts, allowing material to be placed only where it’s needed most. This reduces mass while maintaining mechanical integrity, often improving energy absorption and thermal performance in the process. For orthopedic implants, lattice porosity also enables better bone integration; for heat exchangers, it enhances surface area and fluid dynamics.
What makes these designs viable is the precision of additive manufacturing. With AM, engineers are no longer restricted by the constraints of subtractive machining. Lattice infills, gyroid cores, and functionally graded meshes can be printed directly into the part, no assembly required, no tooling limitations.
Even consumer products benefit. Think of lightweight brackets in electric vehicles, or durable-yet-breathable phone cases. In each of these applications, lattice design isn’t a luxury, it’s an optimization strategy. By saving material and reducing print time, they also contribute to cost efficiency.
Bottom line: Lattices are no longer reserved for aerospace, they’re a cross-industry solution to an age-old challenge: how to do more with less.