Building with no blocks: Printer creates architecture

Pisa, Italy – An industrial printing device is capable of synthesising entire buildings. The D-Shape rapid manufacturing device, designed by Enrico Dini, creates buildings by fusing sand into solid materials that resemble sandstone or marble.

When the device is sent a 3D computer-aided design it creates the design by binding together layers of sand using a special inorganic binding material. The process is four times faster than traditional construction methods and saves on the need for expensive manpower.

Rapid manufacturing and the printing of 3D objects is one of the technologies that will have the greatest impact in the coming decade. This ability to synthesise 3D objects will not only change the way businesses maintain stock levels, if they need stock at all, but will become a powerful tool among the new Betapreneurial class, which is driving the way businesses will function during the Turbulent Teens.