Computer-Aided Design Technology and the Construction Industry Part 5
In this five-part article, we have covered many of the benefits of computer-aided design (CAD) technology and how this innovative software has greatly impacted the construction industry. In the first section, we discussed the basic principles of 3D printing and technology. In the second section, we discussed how CAD programs can create visually stunning and geometrically precise designs. In the third section, we discussed how CAD technology can impact every stage of the construction process from concept to completion. In the last section, we discussed how this technology is now creating giant 3D prints on location or by easy assembly.
In this section, we will feature some of the innovative structures that have been produced thanks to CAD technology. In fact, as Orlando construction lawyers, we can quite literally say that this technology can bridge the gap between developing a cost-effective, efficient, and resourceful way to create new and exciting infrastructure.
3D-Printed Bridges
In Madrid, thanks to Enrico Dini’s D-Shape printing design, the Institute of Advanced Architecture of Catalonia (IAAC) created the first 3D-printed bridge in the world. Although the pedestrian bridge looks like something that should be located on a miniature golf course, it is 40 feet long and nearly 6 feet wide and made up of eight 3D printed sections. It’s also not the only 3D printed bridge in the world. In the Netherlands, Technical University of Eindhoven and construction corporation BAM Infra teamed up to construct a small cyclists bridge for the Noord-Om Project. The bridge looks more structurally sound than the Madrid 3D-printed bridge and consists of steel cable and concrete.
3D-Printed Buildings
In Dubai in 2016, the Museum of the Future project utilized a 3D printer to erect what they claim is the first 3D-printed building. Using a cement mixture material, the foundation of the building was created in just 17 days and at an amazing production price of $140,000. In 2015 in Shanghai, technology company WinSun developed a five-story apartment building from 3D printing. The layers of the structure consist of industrial waste materials including concrete, sand, and fiberglass. According to cnet.com, WinSun’s process of recycling construction materials “saves between 30 and 60 percent of construction waste.” This efficient way of erecting buildings also greatly reduces the construction process time and saves a tremendous amount of money on labor costs as well. With an innovative, cost-effective approach that reduces construction time, labor costs, and consists of many earthly and recycled construction materials, CAD technology utilized for 3D printing can be instrumental in producing the infrastructure of the future.
If you would like to speak with one of our Orlando construction attorneys, please contact us today.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.