3D Printing: Robotics in Construction Part 2

 

In our last article we discussed how Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotics will change the construction sites.

 

Now, an MIT graduate has given us a real life example…

 

Dr. Steven Keating has created a new artificially intelligent 3-D printing machine named  the ‘Digital Construction Platform’ also known as DCP.

 

The DCP has managed to do something nobody has done before.

 

Using his machine along with polyurethane foam Keating used the DCP machine to create a structure that had 50-ft diameter and was 12 ft in height in just 14 hours.

 

Getting To Know The DCP

The DCP is a mobile robot arm that sits on the back of a truck.

Attached to it is a smaller arm that sprays out polyurethane foam.

This foam makes up an insulated structure.

Later on concrete is added and before you know it you have a fully livable structure and it only took a few days.

The DCP is so revolutionary, even within this space, because the arms are able to move in any and every direction, allowing the robot to create any building shape/ design.  

 

How Can it Help

The first one being cost – cheap materials and quick labour.

Another amazing benefit of this machine is that it can withstand any weather conditions.

It could be used to help people when natural disasters strike.

For example, if a hurricane hits somewhere in America the DCP will be able to go in and build a structure that can be used as a shelter for the victims of said natural disaster in the same day.  

 

All in all the DCP is a prime example of a way AI and Robotics can make a positive impact on the lives of humans.

To see the DCP in action watch this YouTube video