Job search
Job Search
Latest news
More news: (showing 1 - 20 of 13727)           
UK only International

Foster + Partners ramp up research into metal-based 3D printing

By Kim Megson    12 Apr 2017
Foster + Partners are collaborating with ten companies and research institutes to explore the potential of metal-based 3D printing / Foster + Partners

The architecture studio of Norman Foster are actively seeking to develop a large-scale hybrid machine that can produce metal building components directly from CAD models using 3D printing.

Foster + Partners are collaborating with ten companies and research institutes to explore the potential of metal-based 3D printing using additive and subtractive manufacturing processes that will enable production within a short timeframe.

The proposed technology, called the Large Additive Subtractive Integrated Modular Machine (LASIMM), would also produce components for the aerospace, energy and transport sectors.

It would feature a modular configuration of industrial robot arms and a specialised milling robot – “the first for rapid arc weld deposition of aluminium, steel, and titanium into a near-net shape, and the second for machining away surplus material to provide the final finish.”

“3D printing technology has revolutionised the architectural and engineering industry over the past few decades with rapid prototyping playing an increasingly pivotal role in the design process,” said the studio in a statement.

“This process now also offers myriad possibilities in the construction of prefabricated building components, enabling entire buildings to be 3D printed in the future.

“The LASIMM would enable the building industry to move away from standardised components and towards bespoke solutions for every building. It would also mean that these components could be produced within a reduced timeframe at a fraction of the cost.”

Foster + Partners were an early adopter of 3D printing and rapid prototyping technology, and the firm purchased their first 3D printer in 2004. They have also been involved with Loughborough University and other partners in bringing large-scale 3D concrete printing technology to market.

The LASIMM project is currently in the first year of a three-year programme. Foster + Partners are providing end user feedback based on the requirements of the building industry.

Soon, to demonstrate the suitability of the technology, LASIMM will create a number of components that have been proposed by industrial partners. Research into the machine has been partly funded by the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme.

The consortium developing the concept is formed of the following partners, including the entire supply chain needed to produce such a machine, two universities and two research institutes:

• The European Federation for Welding, Joining and Cutting

• BAE Systems (Operations)

• Foster + Partners

• Vestas Wind Systems

• Cranfield University

• Global Robots

• Loxin2002

• Helmholtz-Zentrum

• Geesthacht Zentrum fur Material – und Kustenforschung GMBH

• Delcam

• Instituto Superior Técnico

The proposed technology is called the Large Additive Subtractive Integrated Modular Machine / Foster + Partners
The studio aid: 'The LASIMM would enable the building industry to move away from standardised components and towards bespoke solutions for every building' / Foster + Partners
Foster + Partners  architecture  design  3D printing  Large Additive Subtractive Integrated Modular Machine 
Sign up for FREE ezines
Related news
Related features

Company profile

Company profile: Precor
Precor has been a pioneer in delivering fitness experiences for commercial customers for more than 40 years and our products and services span all major categories, including cardio, strength, functional fitness, group training, and connected solutions.
View full profile >
More company profiles

Featured Supplier

Elevate registrations soar: a record-breaking start to Elevate 2024
Elevate, the premier event in the physical activity, fitness, sports therapy and performance sector, is thrilled to announce that registrations for its 2024 conference are now live – and the response has been nothing short of exceptional.
View full details >
More featured suppliers

Property & Tenders

Location: Loughton, IG10
Company: Knight Frank
Location: Grantham, Leicestershire
Company: Belvoir Castle
Location: Verwood, Dorset
Company: AVISON YOUNG
Location: Hall Place House, Bexley, DA5 1PQ
Company: London Borough of Bexley
Location: 15 Concessions across the nation's forests
Company: Forestry England
More properties & tenders

Diary dates

11-14 Apr 2024
Exhibition Centre , Cologne, Germany
22-24 Apr 2024
Galgorm Resort, York
10-12 May 2024
China Import & Export Fair Complex, Guangzhou, China
23-24 May 2024
Large Hall of the Chamber of Commerce (Erbprinzenpalais), Wiesbaden, Germany
More diary dates