MX3D's latest project reimagines internal construction techniques

MX3D, an Amsterdam-based Robotic Additive Manufacturing technology developer and Takenaka, the oldest architectural, engineering and construction firm in Japan, have together developed a 3D printed structural steel connector. Conceptually, it reimagines the internal construction of standard building structures and is an example of how additive manufacturing is changing the construction industry.

“We’re getting much interest from construction companies after our moonshot project on the MX3D Bridge,” said Filippo Gilardi, R&D Lead at MX3D. “Together with Takenaka we’ve built this connector to show how the wire arc additive manufacturing (WAAM) technology is ready for industrialisation to create unique connectors for complex constructions.”

“This collaboration truly shows that architectural creativity doesn’t have to be limited by manufacturing constraints by further closing the digital design loop," he added.

MX3D, which was founded in 2015, leverages metal 3D printing for new and high impact industries and uses intelligent RAM technology to manufacture unique computer-generated parts and structures. 

The Structural Steel Connector is designed with a hollow composition that will be filled, post-print, with concrete by Takenaka engineers. A common technique in civil engineering, filling steel tubes with concrete or mortar helps prevent or delay local buckling of steel, and the outer steel bears bending.

Takuya Kinoshita, Project Leader at Takenaka said: “This innovative manufacturing technology seamlessly connects bits and atoms, dramatically shortens lead times, pushes the boundaries of design, and finally contributes to the creation of more splendid architectural spaces.”

Last year, MX3D unveiled a 12 metre long 3D printed steel bridge, which is now located at the Oudezijds Achterburgwal canal in Amsterdam. The company has also confirmed a second, digital bridge construction project ith the Cambridge Centre for Smart Infrastructure and Construction, Imperial College London, and The Alan Turing Institute.

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