The use of 3d printing in architecture is still small as logistics are being ironed out, but a new proof of concept has just been unveiled. The 250-square-metre space (2,700 square foot) is what Dubai’s Museum of the Future project is calling the world’s first 3d printed building. China unveiled the world’s first 3d printed office building and mansion in early 2015.
First announced in June 2015, the purpose of the new 3d printed building is to showcase the United Arab Emirates’ commitment to innovation. And also, looking to the future and promoting the UAE as a world leader in 3d printing.
“We implement what we plan and we pursue actions not theories. The rapidly changing world requires us to accelerate our pace of development as history does not recognize plans but achievements,” Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum said at the grand opening.
A 3d printer measuring 20 feet high, 120 feet long and 40 feet wide was used to print the building. The printer features an automated robotic arm to implement the printing process in a special cement mixture, layer by layer. In all, it took a total of 17 days to print the building at a cost of about $140,000, after which the interior and exterior design details were added.
Exterior view of Dubai’s 3d printed building
The world’s first 3d printed building space covers up to 250 square metres, while the exterior design reflects the most innovative forms of the future workplace. The design has been conceived to achieve a shift from the traditional form of work environments and provide greater opportunities to stimulate innovation and communication between workplace teams. It offers the possibilities for joint work with experts and innovators from around the world, and a platform to inspire ideas and develop relations between employees by establishing new methods for brainstorming sessions and creating a healthy and happy environment. Moreover, the design offers space for exhibitions and workshops as well as other events.
The 3d printed office was constructed using a special mixture of cement and a set of building materials designed and made in the UAE and the United States. These materials have undergone a range of tests in both China and the United Kingdom to ensure their reliability. An arc shape was adopted for the building for safety purposes and to ensure the stability of the building.
Interior view of Dubai’s 3d printed building
Innovative features have been adopted in the office building to reduce energy consumption such as window shades to offer protection from direct sunlight and keep the building cool. The latest technology has been used in the management of information systems within the building.
Purpose of the 3d printed building
The strategy adopts an emerging technology that will help cut cost in many sectors, especially the medical and construction sector in Dubai. The technology will restructure economies and labour markets, and redefine productivity.
The inauguration of the Office is part of a larger strategy called the Dubai Future Agenda. It is launched by the UAE to become a major incubator of innovation and future technology in the world.
The Future Agenda reflects Dubai’s deepening commitment to developing breakthrough projects and initiatives with partners around the world that can help shape the 21st century for the better. The Office of the Future and the Dubai Future Foundation are a step in this direction.
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