flexiblefullpage
billboard
interstitial1
catfish1
Currently Reading

Tenn. startup uses freeform 3D printer to build full-size walls

BIM and Information Technology

Tenn. startup uses freeform 3D printer to build full-size walls

Branch Technology used the world’s largest freeform printer, one that has an arm that prints objects in open space, to make the lightweight yet incredibly sturdy lattice structures.


By Mike Chamernik, Associate Editor | July 29, 2015
Startup builds a reputation with 3D printed walls

Photo: Courtesy Branch Technology

While 3D printing technology has gone from novel to practical in many realms, the construction industry has been a little slow in adopting it and using it in a meaningful way.

Branch Technology, a Chattanooga, Tenn.-based startup, is going all-in on 3D printing. According to 3DPrint.com, the company is the first to successfully construct full-size building walls using the technology.

It took the world’s largest freeform printer, one that has an arm that prints objects in open space, to make the lightweight yet incredibly sturdy lattice structures.

Branch’s focus right now is to make interior walls and art installations, but eventually the company plans to make load-bearing and exterior walls, and entire buildings.

 

Related Stories

Sponsored | BIM and Information Technology | Oct 1, 2015

How can owners make better decisions with the help of analytics?

Sasha Reed sits down with David Fano, Chief Technology Officer for WeWork  (formerly with CASE), at BIMForum to discuss how owners make better decisions with the help of analytics.

Modular Building | Sep 23, 2015

SOM and DOE unveil 3D-printed, off-the-grid building

The Additive Manufacturing Integrated Energy (AMIE) building features a high-performance shell with a photovoltaic roof and built-in natural gas generator.

BIM and Information Technology | Sep 16, 2015

Norman Foster proposes 'drone ports' as a way to ship goods across Africa

The structures would store cargo-shipping drones and serve as community centers.

BIM and Information Technology | Sep 16, 2015

VIDEO: See how Wiss, Janney, Elstner engineers use drones to perform building inspections

"We believe that drone usage will enable building owners to assess problems quicker and with less risk to the general public and workers,” said WJE Principal Michael Petermann.

BIM and Information Technology | Sep 14, 2015

Is Apple's new iPad Pro a game changer for architects?

A stylus, split screen, and improved graphics make designing on the tablet easier.

BIM and Information Technology | Sep 9, 2015

How is data changing the nature of design?

Advances in building information modeling allow for more thorough project documentation, but don't get lost in the white noise, writes Shepley Bulfinch’s Kyle Martin. 

BIM and Information Technology | Sep 7, 2015

The power of data: How AEC firms and owners are using analytics to transform design and construction

Case’s bldgs = data conference highlighted how collecting data about personal activities can inform design and extend the power of BIM/VDC.

BIM and Information Technology | Aug 28, 2015

MIT researchers develop 3D printer that produces intricate glass structures

The machine uses molten glass as its “ink,” contained in a “kiln cartridge” that heats up at 1,900 degrees until it is molten and pliable.

BIM and Information Technology | Aug 27, 2015

Zebra Imaging launches 3D hologram creator for Autodesk Revit

Company promises new product will bring "easy creation process" to holographic imaging in AEC community.

Office Buildings | Aug 24, 2015

British company OpenDesk offers open-sourced office furniture

Offices can “download” their furniture to be made locally, anywhere.

boombox1
boombox2
native1

More In Category


Great Solutions

41 Great Solutions for architects, engineers, and contractors

AI ChatBots, ambient computing, floating MRIs, low-carbon cement, sunshine on demand, next-generation top-down construction. These and 35 other innovations make up our 2024 Great Solutions Report, which highlights fresh ideas and innovations from leading architecture, engineering, and construction firms.



halfpage1

Most Popular Content

  1. 2021 Giants 400 Report
  2. Top 150 Architecture Firms for 2019
  3. 13 projects that represent the future of affordable housing
  4. Sagrada Familia completion date pushed back due to coronavirus
  5. Top 160 Architecture Firms 2021