Compact Modular Robotic Arm Printer Solution To Growing Demand for Affordable Housing

RIC Technologies has introduced a compact modular robotic arm printer at the most recent World of Concrete (WOC) 2024 in response to the increased demand for more affordable housing. Compared to the other machines used in 3D construction printers, this new technology is said to be more efficient in terms of both time and money.

(Photo : TCT Magazine/RIC Technology )

RIC Technology's New Robotic Arm Printer

Traditional gantry-based 3D construction technologies have yet to adequately deliver on their promise of decreasing construction time and costs as a solution to the global housing problem on a large scale. According to RIC, this is because the systems require up to three days to set up and cost thousands of dollars in labor and equipment rental fees.

With the new RIC-M1 PRO robotic arm printer, RIC technology claims that it can accomplish the potential for cost and time savings through innovations such as a compact size and modular design, a 30% larger footprint, a 1/3 reduction in the amount of skilled labor that is required, and the inclusion of a 3/8 mixer pump. Unlike the gantry-based approach, the new printer is significantly more compact, does not need to be assembled, and can be put into operation in two to four hours after it is brought to the construction site.

Moreover, RIC-M1 PRO has undergone several significant modifications, including an increased printing footprint. By utilizing the extended length of the modular rail system, the RIC-M1 PRO achieves an extensive printing range, encompassing dimensions of 14 feet in height, 21.65 feet in breadth, and 42.65 feet in length. As a result, the printable terrains have been enlarged to include mountains in addition to the backyards of homeowners.

Additionally, because of the improved automation of the RIC-M1 PRO, the number of skilled laborers required to operate the robot has been reduced from three to two, which increased its productivity and decreased its costs. The training procedure was shortened from one to two months to one to two weeks. Thus, the RIC-M1 PRO also features a data login, which allows for real-time material quality checking, which helps reduce errors caused by human intervention and improves printing quality.

Also Read: Balancing Supply and Demand: Construction Workforce Needed Exceeds 500,000

Efficiency of 3D Printing

Printing in three dimensions, often known as additive manufacturing, is a term that describes several different methods, including stacking material under a computer's supervision. Production of complex geometries, quick prototyping, and the customization of products are all possible due to their application in intelligent manufacturing. 

Accordingly, in manufacturing, discrete control systems are responsible for managing and controlling the production of specific parts. Robotic controllers and automation systems specifically designed for jobs requiring a high level of precision are included in these systems. 

On the other hand, there are several advantages to 3D printing for energy applications, which cannot be understated. The use of 3D printing presents a vast opportunity to improve the energy efficiency of industrial manufacturing. By utilizing renewable energy sources and reusing materials already in existence, 3D printing can provide a solution to energy consumption that is both environmentally responsible and cost-effective. It is also possible to improve the efficiency of energy consumption in the industrial sector by using the surplus heat generated during the printing process. 

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