Construction

Armatron granted patent for cement 3D printing technology

Armatron, an Arizona-based 3D Construction Printing Company (3DCP), has been granted an extensive patent for a method of reinforced cementitious construction by high-speed extrusion printing. 

With this technology, the company aims to overcome the current limitations of conventional construction, with sustainable, full-scale 3D printed structures. Armatron CTO, Brian C. Giles, and COO and co-founder, Blair Souter previously told 3D Printing Industry:

“The construction industry is statistically the most dangerous for its workers, who are increasingly forced to work alongside heavy machinery. Labor costs are exceptionally high, productivity is low, and the sector simply hasn’t evolved in line with manufacturing and other comparable industries.”

“We see 3D Construction Printing (additive layer-wise manufacturing) as the impetus that will bring the construction industry into a new era of efficiency and profitability.”

Additive manufacturing and construction

With over 10 years of experience, Armatron Systems has accumulated intellectual property (IP) for full-scale 3DCP technologies encompassing several reinforced concrete construction systems. This includes scalable tools for building, refurbishing, and or retrofitting a wide variety of structures ranging from water tanks to high-end homes.

The present patent pertains to methods and apparatuses for an automated reinforced concrete construction system enabling onsite slip-form molding and casting of cementitious mixes. This is done in an externally moldable flexible reinforced containment sleeve. The automated, slip-form molding apparatus includes layer-wise interlocking with 3D printed cement deposition for improved mold casting of various structures.

A render of robotic arms 3D printing cement structures. Image via Armatron.
A render of robotic arms 3D printing cement structures. Image via Armatron.

Armatron Systems

According to Armatron, the recent patent granted has over 100 innovative concepts. It has also filed a separate and distinct patent application for new transitional construction technology. The company’s business model starts with licensing to maintain quality control and efficient technology implementation. Strategic partnerships will then be implemented with entities in robotics, construction, software, and heavy machinery. Following this, international infrastructure development is offered through design and build contractor services. This allows for the construction of novel, sustainable homes.

A render of a 3D printed home in hot conditions. Image via Armatron.
A render of a 3D printed home in hot conditions. Image via Armatron.

Subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry newsletter for the latest news in additive manufacturing. You can also stay connected by following us on Twitter and liking us on Facebook.

Looking for a career in additive manufacturing? Visit 3D Printing Jobs for a selection of roles in the industry. 

Featured image shows a render of robotic arms 3D printing cement structures. Image via Armatron.