Applications Based on Symmetry in Additive Manufacturing

Dear Colleagues,

Additive Manufacturing (AM) has revolutionized modern production, enabling the creation of complex geometries with precision, customization, and material efficiency. By building components layer-by-layer, AM unlocks design possibilities unattainable through traditional methods—from lightweight aerospace parts to patient-specific medical implants. However, the full potential of AM lies in its integration with symmetry principles and advanced computational strategies. Symmetry is not merely an esthetic consideration; it is a foundational tool for optimizing performance. For instance, symmetry-driven hierarchical lattices use geometric repetition across scales to enhance energy absorption, while bio-inspired asymmetric–symmetric hybrids mimic natural systems like beetle exoskeletons to improve fatigue resistance. Similarly, spatiotemporal symmetry in multi-material AM enables precise control over catalytic reactors, and topology optimization leverages symmetry to balance strength with minimal material use. Even challenges like process-induced distortions in AM can be addressed through dimension reduction techniques, which simplify complex models without sacrificing accuracy. Together, these approaches demonstrate how symmetry transcends static geometry, acting as a dynamic framework for innovation in AM.

The fusion of symmetry and AM is critical for advancing next-generation applications. By embedding symmetry principles into design and manufacturing workflows, engineers can achieve unprecedented performance in light weighting, durability, and functional adaptability. This synergy not only speeds up the adoption of AM across industries but also paves the way for sustainable, resource-efficient production. This Special Issue, “Applications Based on Symmetry in Additive Manufacturing”, invites contributions that explore the intersection of symmetry, computational modeling, and AM technologies. We seek cutting-edge research addressing the following topics:

• Hierarchical Lattice Structures: Multi-scale designs with symmetry transitions for crash-resistant industrial components.
• Bio-Inspired hybrids: Combining asymmetric and symmetric regions to mimic natural fatigue-resistant systems.
• 4D-Printed Meta-Materials: Dynamic symmetry breaking for shape-morphing AM processes.
• Multi-Material Reactors: Spatiotemporal symmetry patterns to optimize catalytic efficiency and thermal management.
• Topology Optimization: Optimization for symmetry-aware light weighting and material distribution.
• Dimension Reduction: Reduced-order models leveraging symmetry principles to speed up simulations of AM processes/products.

Interdisciplinary studies bridging biology, materials science, and artificial intelligence are particularly encouraged, as they hold the key to unlocking AM’s full potential.

Dr. Ming Wu
Dr. Lingling Wu
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Symmetry is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

• additive manufacturing
• symmetry-driven design
• topology optimization
• dimension reduction
• 4D printing
• bio-inspired structures
• multi-material AM
• numerical modeling
• hierarchical lattices