3D-Printed Column Could Lead to Earthquake-Resistant Buildings

Oct-10-14 Made using a combination of ancient design and modern technology, the 3D printed Quake Column can withstand earthquakes.

Created by the architecture firm Emerging Objects, the column's design is based on the Incan building technique called ashlar. Traditionally, the ashlar technique involved using blocks of stone that had been cut to fit together without mortar, shaped with rounded corners and set at a slight incline—preventing horizontal movement and allowing the structure to withstand earthquakes.

Instead of cut stone, however, the Quake Column was built using a 3D printer that created hollow, lightweight bricks. The blocks can also be printed with a numbering system that simplifies assembly, and handles built into the blocks make them easier to lift. These blocks could then be used to construct load-bearing, code-compliant walls.

More Info about this Invention:

[WIRED.COM]
[EMERGINGOBJECTS.COM]

---