Cobod International has launched an innovative 3D construction printer that increases efficiency by moving between sites on tracks.
- This new tracked Bod3 printer reduces set-up time by expanding its printable area, covering multiple buildings.
- The Bod3’s advanced design enhances productivity by allowing consecutive structures to be printed with minimal repositioning.
- Real concrete is used in the process with an additive developed by Cobod and Cemex to speed up drying time, increasing efficiency.
- Initial international deployments in Indonesia, Angola, and Bahrain highlight the machine’s ability to expedite construction and adapt to local materials.
Cobod International, a Danish innovator in 3D construction printing technology, has unveiled a groundbreaking machine, the Bod3, which operates on tracks. This design allows the machine to travel seamlessly from one building site to another, dramatically increasing efficiency. The tracked system effectively expands the printable area, enabling it to serve two or three buildings in succession, thus significantly reducing the set-up time associated with multiple-building sites.
The core advantage of the Bod3 printer lies in its advanced ground-based track system. According to Cobod’s chief innovation officer, Michael Holm, this feature was specifically developed in response to customer demands for greater efficiency and productivity. By incorporating this extendable system, the printer can execute multiple consecutive building projects with minimal repositioning. This advancement ensures there is almost zero downtime between projects, enhancing the overall efficiency of 3D construction printing as never before.
Similar to other Cobod 3D printers, the Bod3 employs an advanced hose management system, which efficiently transports 3D printable material directly to the printhead. Additives are incorporated right at the printhead, which aids in reducing the drying time between printed layers. This significantly accelerates construction processes, allowing for faster project completion timelines. The Bod3 has already seen successful implementation in international markets such as Indonesia, Angola, and Bahrain by companies like Modula Tiga Dimensi and Power2Build.
A notable feature of the Bod3 is its capability to print using approximately 99% locally sourced materials, supplemented by a mere 1% of a special ingredient, D.fab. Developed by Cobod in collaboration with Cemex, this additive transforms the locally sourced materials into a printable medium, akin to the consistency of cake icing. This innovation showcases Cobod’s commitment to sustainability and cost-efficiency in construction.
Henrik Lund-Nielsen, Cobod’s founder, and general manager, has stated that the Bod3 addresses the global housing crisis by offering a scalable, rapid construction solution without compromising quality. This capability is underscored by the fact that six units were sold prior to its official launch, reflecting strong market demand and customer confidence in this advanced technology.
The Bod3 printer marks a significant step forward in the realm of 3D construction, offering a scalable and efficient solution to modern building challenges.
