b'TECHNOLOGY3D PRINTING AT WORK: A ROBOTIC 3D PRINTER CREATES A CONCRETE RETAINING WALLTHEFRESH PRINTS3D PRINTING COMES IN ALL SHAPES AND SIZES By Sarah B. HoodMOST PEOPLE KNOW ITSWalter adds that that the technologydesigners will be entering the workforce POSSIBLE to 3D-print machineintegrates easily into a BIM (Buildingprepared to integrate 3D printing into parts. Fewer realize you can nowInformation Modelling) environment.everyday life. For example, the Daniels 3D-print a house. Whether its a tinyHe lists construction components likeFaculty of Architecture, Landscape and screw or an entire building, the conceptbolts and electrical connectors amongDesign at the University of Toronto has a is the same: digital code guides a printerthe items that are easily adaptable tofull digital fabrication lab.arm preciselylike an inkjet printeras3D printing, but points out that it can it extrudes a quick-setting liquid, whichbe applied even to the prefabricationMOVING FORWARDmay be plastic, concrete or metal. Asof buildings and bridges. Certainly,Practical 3D printing has literally moved layers are built up, the form takes shape. its had an impact on architecture andfar beyond the nuts-and-bolts level. engineering planning and design at theLifeTec Construction Group, based in AECOM has implemented a number ofdesktop level, he says. For instance,Surrey, B.C., has developed the capacity 3D pilots internationally, but its stillprinting out miniatures is already part ofto carry out 3D design-print with cold-a maturing idea in Canada, says Jeffour workflow.Walter, director of digital transformationformed steel in different gauges and with AECOM Canada. Nevertheless, asWalter sees 3D printing as a fast-movingsizes, from 1.5-inch to 12-inch studs.the interface of design and constructioninnovation. AECOM has signed early are becoming more tightly woundstrategic partnerships with 3D printingWeve been doing this since 2017, says together, there are definitely lots of earlyfirms in China. Schools have embracedLifeTec business development manager indicators that 3D printing is on its way.the technology, and increasingly, youngSukh Mann. Were the only ones who 32Quarter 32021 BUILDERSDIGEST'