The University of Maine is home to a groundbreaking 3D printer that can produce objects measuring up to 29 x 10 x 5.5 meters. Named “Future Factory 1.0”, this state-of-the-art technology has the potential to revolutionize the construction industry by reducing construction time and labor, opening up new possibilities for affordable housing solutions and addressing homelessness in the region.
The machine, part of the Center for Structural Engineering, Advanced Architecture, and Composites at the university, represents a significant advancement from the first version introduced nearly five years ago. It combines large-scale automated coordination, sensors, high-performance computing, and artificial intelligence to create complex structures with precision and speed.
Maine faces a growing demand for housing, with a need for 80,000 more homes in the next six years. The University of Maine aims to demonstrate that housing can be constructed efficiently and sustainably using 3D printing technology. The machine has already been used to create a single-family home using wood fiber and recyclable bioplastic materials, showcasing its potential for large-scale construction projects.
Researchers are exploring new materials, including biological ingredients sourced from Maine’s abundant wood chips, to further enhance the capabilities of the 3D printer. In addition to housing, the machine can be used to create a variety of products, from boats to security structures, demonstrating its versatility and potential impact on multiple industries.
By combining two versions of the printer seamlessly during complex projects, Future Factory 1.0 is poised to become a game-changer in the world of construction and manufacturing.