Bambu Lab’s CyberBrick: 3D-Printable Toys with Programmable Electronics
Bambu Lab has introduced CyberBrick, an innovative toy system integrating reusable and programmable electronic components with 3D-printed models. The project has surpassed its funding goal on Kickstarter, with the first kits expected by May 2025. CyberBrick includes designs like a forklift, truck, and soccer bot, as well as a universal wireless controller. Kits start at $29.99 and comprise solderless electronic modules and 3D printing instructions, with an option for pre-printed parts. This system supports diverse 3D printers, allowing broader accessibility beyond Bambu’s past restrictions on third-party printing tools. arXiv+5The Verge+5ScienceDaily+5
Australia’s First 3D-Printed Multistorey Home
A construction company in Melbourne’s outer suburbs has unveiled the first multistorey, 3D-printed home in the Southern Hemisphere, highlighting AI-powered 3D construction technology. Designed by LUYTEN, the house features advanced architectural elements like a lift core and walls designed to minimize noise. CEO Ahmed Mahil will reside in the 350-square-meter home, which emphasizes the potential of 3D printing in addressing housing shortages by significantly reducing construction time. The house will be built in five weeks, compared to the typical 8-11 months for traditional construction. Governments are showing interest, exemplified by a visit from Minister for Industry and Science Ed Husic. Globally, countries like Ireland, Dubai, Chile, and the US are transitioning to 3D-printed homes. The move is seen as efficient, cost-effective, and beneficial in tackling various housing issues. news
Ireland’s First 3D-Printed Homes
Three families in Dundalk, County Louth, Ireland, have moved into the country’s first 3D-printed homes. These two-storey, three-bedroom houses were constructed using automated concrete printing technology, significantly reducing costs and speeding up the building process. The project was a partnership between Louth County Council, Harcourt Technologies (HTL), Roadstone, the Louth & Meath Education & Training Board, and Harcourt Architects. The construction, which involved laying down concrete layers as per a digital model, took just 12 days of printing and overall 18 site working days. Despite the automated process, the cost of each home was estimated at around €253,000. The initiative aims to demonstrate how 3D printing technology can efficiently provide sustainable housing solutions and potentially help address Ireland’s housing crisis. The successful completion of these homes is seen as a model for future projects to be rolled out nationwide. The Irish Sun
MIT’s Speed-Modulated Ironing for 3D Printing
Researchers at MIT have developed a new technique called speed-modulated ironing, enabling makers to finely tune the color, shade, and texture of 3D-printed objects using only one material. This method allows for precise control over the appearance of fabricated items, offering a faster and less wasteful alternative to traditional multi-material 3D printing processes. MIT News+1Thomasnet+1
These developments illustrate the rapid advancements in 3D printing technology, impacting various sectors from consumer products to housing and manufacturing.The Irish Sun+1news+1
Sources