Load-bearing parts with networks of interconnecting branches and methods of making the same

A load-bearing part configured to resist a load, the load-bearing part comprising:

• a load-receiving member that defines an outer surface configured to receive a load;
• a support member offset from the load-receiving member along a first direction;
• a network of interconnected branches, the network extending from the load-receiving member to the support member, the network of interconnected branches including:
• at least one primary branch, each having a first primary-branch end attached to one of the load-receiving member and the support member;
• and
• at least one auxiliary branch, each having a first auxiliary-branch end attached to a first primary branch of the at least one primary branch, and a second auxiliary-branch end attached to one of (i) the load-receiving member, (ii) the support member, and (iii) a second primary branch of the at least one primary branch,
• wherein the first primary-branch end is attached to the load-receiving member and the at least one primary branch has a second primary-branch end that is attached to the support member, and wherein the at least one auxiliary branch comprises a plurality of auxiliary branches, each having a first auxiliary-branch end attached to the first primary branch, and a second auxiliary-branch end attached to the load-receiving member.