Innovative 3D printing technology, inspired by nature, breaks new ground in affordable construction housing in Colombia, offering a cost-effective and effective solution to the housing crisis.
Revolution in construction
An innovative approach to solving the housing problem
The United Nations Development Program has taken a significant step forward in addressing Colombia's housing crisis by investing $180,000 in the acquisition of a cutting-edge Crane WASP 3D printer. This unique device, known as an "infinity 3D printer", is capable of using local materials such as clay, silt or cement to build complete houses.
Scope of the problem and potential solution
Colombia faces a severe housing shortage, with more than a quarter of households experiencing housing insecurity and 3 .7 million families need new homes. In addition, two thirds of existing dwellings require major renovation. Crane WASP technology offers a fast and cost-effective solution to this complex problem.
Inspiration from nature
The creators of Crane WASP drew inspiration from the building art of wasp masons, who build their nests from the ground. Thanks to this approach, the UN Development Program will be able to install these printers in hard-to-reach places where conventional construction equipment is powerless, using local soil to print houses.
Advantages over competitors
Unlike other technologies for 3D printing houses, for example, Vulcan from the company Icon, which builds 100 homes near Austin, Texas, USA, Crane WASP offers increased mobility and flexibility. Its delta design with four legs and triangular mounting allows the printer to be installed even on uneven surfaces.
Cost Effective
The cost of building one home using Crane WASP is only $1,000, which is significantly lower than the cost of traditional methods construction. Moreover, multiple printers can be combined into a honeycomb structure to build entire settlements simultaneously.
The illustration shows how multiple Crane WASP printers can work simultaneously on multiple buildings.
Although the UN Development Program has not yet announced exact dates for construction to begin, the initiative promises to be a major milestone in solving Colombia's housing crisis.
Glossary
- Crane WASP - an innovative 3D printer for home construction using local materials .
- The United Nations Development Program is a UN organization dedicated to providing development assistance to member countries.
- Vulcan is a competing 3D house printing technology from Icon.
- Colombia is a country in South America where an affordable housing project is planned.
- Austin is a city in Texas, USA, where a project to build houses using Vulcan technology is being implemented.
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Answers to questions
What is Crane WASP and how can this technology help solve Colombia's housing problem?
What are the benefits of Crane WASP over traditional construction methods?
What materials does Crane WASP use to build houses?
How is Crane WASP technology inspired by nature?
What are the prospects for Crane WASP in other countries with housing problems?
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Discussion of the topic – 3D printing housing: UN builds houses for the price of a smartphone in Colombia
The UN is introducing innovative technology to 3D print mud houses in Colombia using a $180,000 Crane WASP printer. The technology, inspired by mason wasps, creates affordable housing at a record low price, comparable to the cost of a smartphone.
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Isabella
Wow, this is simply incredible! 3D printing of houses for $1000 is a revolution in construction. Can you imagine how this could change the lives of millions of people? 🏠✨
Hans
Really impressive! What's especially interesting is that the technology is inspired by mason wasps. Nature is the best teacher in innovation. I wonder how durable these houses are?
Sophie
Isabella, Hans, I'm delighted too! Imagine how quickly it will be possible to restore housing after natural disasters. And using local materials is also environmentally friendly! 🌿
Diego
Guys, have you noticed that several printers can be connected in a cellular structure? This will allow you to build entire villages at the same time! Can you imagine the scale? 😮
Olaf
Ha, another fancy toy. So what if it's cheap? What about the quality? Durability? I doubt these houses will last longer than a couple of years. It's better to build it the old fashioned way.
Amelie
Olaf, I understand your skepticism, but technology does not stand still. These homes may not be ideal, but they can be a great temporary solution for many families. It's better to have a roof over your head than nothing, right? 🤔
Isabella
I agree with Amelie! In addition, Diego correctly noted about the scale. This can also help quickly solve the problem of homelessness in many countries. I hope the UN successfully implements this project in Colombia! 🙏
Hans
But I’m wondering how this will affect the labor market in construction? On the one hand, there may be a reduction in jobs, but on the other, new specialties will appear. It will be interesting to watch the development of this technology! 🔨🤖