Structural Fab

Soon we will be making buildings more efficiently and sustainably using computer controlled manufacturing and as-needed supply strategies. This article in MIT's Technology Review discusses bringing the FabLab and RepRap processes to the construction industry.

I particularly like the biomimicry aspects of making load bearing members in a building structurally resemble bones. Now if we just add some sensors as well, our buildings could tell us when they are breaking.

I suspect this will mean the replacement of many labor intensive construction jobs, but the building industry shouldn't expect to avoid the same technology-driven disruptions that the automotive, aeronautic, electronics and even shipping industries have endured.

Deriving 3D Models From Photos

Alright! I may soon be able to bullet-time photograph a broken plastic widget and 3D print out a replacement from a homegrown 3D printer, like Bowyer's RepRap. Then I won't have to send as much to the landfill. Repairmen can expand their revenue stream: 1) scavenging at Goodwill or eWaste yards 2) look up the broken part online or inverse-panoramic photograph it, and 3) print out the replacement. Boom, fixed machine for a low, low price.

Although this is not the first venture into this space, I'm glad to see Microsoft throwing some weight behind it. We will need lots more development. I visualize a day when I can call in a contractor, who shows up with a laser grid projector and a camcorder, and then brings an accurate blueprint/3D model to the next meeting.

I wonder if the intellectual property protectionism will be as ineffective for manufacturers as it has been for the music industry.