Optimizing 3D Printer Depending on 3D printing Concrete Property

Abstract

As the digital technologies such as AI and automation are developed, the boundary lines between the physical, digital, and biological technologies are weakening. This weakening of boundary lines is considered as the Fourth Industrial Revolution. With this new industrial revolution, new technologies are born. Among new technologies, 3D printing is viewed as one of leading technologies for the Fourth Industrial Revolution. 3D printing is a technology which creates a three-dimensional object by joining material using computer controlled machine. When applied to the Architecture, it is expected to provide financial profit by reducing construction cost, construction time and by simplifying production process.

The purpose of this study is to evaluate limitation for current 3D printing technologies when used in the Architecture and suggest solutions. 3D printing is an Additive Manufacturing (AM) process which stacks layers of materials upon each other to create an object. Currently used 3D printing methods are Concrete Printing, and D-Shape. When applied at large-scale 3D printing, each methods has own advantages and disadvantages. The main focus of this research is to evaluate 3D printing methods and introduce suggestions for improving structural stability of 3D printed model.

In this research, Concrete Printing method showed high potential to be used in the Architecture. However, depending on multiple factors like material properties, printer performance, and model shape, there are limitation to Concrete Printing. Each factor cause failure during 3D printing process.

As a method for form optimization, Topology Analysis and Modularization are suggested. Through Topology Analysis, optimal form to resist give load case could be achieved along with reduced material use and production time. On the other hand, Modularization could relieve 3D printable form limitation. Performing structural analysis for 3D model considering limitations of 3D printer is recommended before printing the model and through further research form optimization algorithm for 3D printed model can be acquired.

To be able to apply these solutions, 3D printer property and 3D printing material property must be defined. This paper tests different 3D printing concrete mixture to check the outcome of each mixture suggests how to optimize 3D printing property.