At the University of Maine, an innovative 3D printer has been developed that is capable of printing 454 kilograms of material per hour and completing a house in just two days. This impressive technology, known as “Future Factory 1.0”, was created by Habib Dagher and his team at the Advanced Structures and Composites Center (ASCC).
The unique 3D printer uses leftover wood to construct houses, not only reducing waste but also allowing for greater flexibility in design and construction methods. This approach can mitigate some of the challenges faced in the housing industry, such as high costs and a shortage of skilled workers. The University of Maine has already successfully printed a 55.7 square meter house, known as “BioHome3D”, using 100% wood fiber and bioplastics.
One of the key advantages of the new printer is its ability to print entire structures, including floors, roofs, and walls, all from wood materials. This makes the construction process more efficient and less susceptible to weather-related delays. The team at ASCC is also working on integrating power lines and plumbing into the printing process to further streamline construction.
While there are still challenges to overcome, such as clogging and meeting building codes, the team is focused on refining the technology for future projects. Their next goal is to build a 9-house residential complex for the homeless, showcasing the potential impact of 3D printed homes on community housing initiatives.
