And because 3D printing is so attractive to hobbyists, countless tiny boats and remote-controlled watercraft—even swarms of robot boats—and jet boats have been created using the new and exciting technology. This industry seems to be about outdoing innovations on a daily basis, however, and rumor has it that now one South Korean city may be about to outdo everyone altogether. While this is certainly a developing story and should have quite an impressive outcome should it come to fruition, word is that the industrial city where Hyundai Heavy Industries is based—Ulsan—is poised to start doing some major spending in 3D printing on a large scale with production of ships.
The current mission of MOTIE is indeed not just to further economic growth, but to also provide a foundation that allows it to grow through coming decades in the very crucial area of industry, as well as business, investments, and the energy sector. With the city of Ulsan’s waterway location on a large harbor, shipbuilding is a viable and logical undertaking, and with all of the benefits available via 3D printing should offer productivity, speed, and a better bottom line—on a larger scale than we’ve seen yet.
It’s said that around $20 million will be spent within a five-year period, and the project should be underway by next year. Home to Samsung, LG, and the famed Hyundai, Korea is a tech-rich country, and it’s certainly no surprise that they have such big aspirations regarding 3D printing. If they beat everyone else to the punch with 3D printed ships, the rest of the world will be using their innovations as a model, undoubtedly. What do you think of this plan? Discuss in the 3D Printed Ships forum over at 3DPB.com
[Source: Splash24/7]