Dutch startup MX3D to use additive metal welding technology and industrial robots to build bridge in situ.
Additive manufacturing specialist MX3D is to 3D print a life sized steel bridge over a canal in the centre of Amsterdam. The Dutch startup will use a pair of 6-axis industrial robots kitted out with MX3D’s bespoke 3D printing technology to build the fully functional, intricate metal bridge.
MX3D’s 3D printing technology is essentially a customised welding machine. By adding small amounts of molten metal at a time, the company is able to ‘print’ lines in mid air. In house software is used control the complex build process.
The project is a collaboration between MX3D, Autodesk, construction company Heijmans and many others. The bridge will be designed by Joris Laarman and is set for completion in 2017.
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