Inspired by shape-shifting features of slime mould growth, we implement a computational algorithm to study the nutrient-induced pattern formation and transition of slime mould. We then translate the learned principles into the design and characterization of cellular materials, with particular focus on the issue of spatial heterogeneity due to the nature of the non-uniform, asymmetric pattern. Guided by clustering analysis, compression tests on 3D-printed samples, and numerical simulations by finite element models, we were able to categorize patterns with certain geometric features (such as layout and symmetry) and found similar mechanical response features, indicating high tailorability of non-uniform architected materials. This study paves the road for the advanced computer-aided design of architected materials and its potential in the development of innovative engineering mechanical devices and structural systems.

中文翻译：

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在粘液霉菌生长的启发下，在不均匀的建筑材料中利用空间异质性和响应特性。

受粘液霉菌生长的形状变化特征的启发，我们实现了一种计算算法来研究营养物引起的粘液霉菌的形成和过渡。然后，我们将学到的原理转化为细胞材料的设计和表征，尤其要关注由于非均匀，不对称图案的性质而引起的空间异质性问题。通过聚类分析，3D打印样品的压缩测试以及有限元模型的数值模拟，我们能够对具有某些几何特征（例如布局和对称性）的图案进行分类，并发现相似的机械响应特征，这表明非织造布的高度可定制性-统一的建筑材料。