And while many of us might still be stuck in the mindset that 3D printers are pumping out pieces about the size of your hand, that’s certainly no longer true, as this technology operates from the nanoscale to the Guinness Book of World Records. You may still be reeling from our previous piece earlier in the week regarding the largest single 3D printed part created by ORNL and Boeing being recognized by Guinness, but as makers around the world top one innovation after another, the same goes for records. And it seems that Guinness is making way for the makers.
“This project is more than just a pavilion; its dynamic form is constructed with over 5,300 poly-blocks that double as lampshades, planters, and more. Eye-catching and innovative, the Rise Pavilion invites viewers to challenge current design norms and discover creative ways to reuse materials with multi-functionality in mind.”
The Pavilion weighs 1.87 tons, stands over 11 feet high, and spans more than 1180 square feet. This enormous project was inspired during Rise Education’s Young Creator Cup, and comprises five arcs, representing:
- Health
- Transportation
- Society
- Education
- Art and design
The enormous design is quite brilliant also in that it can serve as an exhibition space. They have used the structure in this capacity to show off 3D printed models that actually have QR codes attached. In scanning them, visitors can link up to videos which show the projects and designs from the competition’s top students.
Not just meant to be a one-off, the DeFacto team created the structure to have a much longer lifespan than just serving to create a record and serve as a one-time exhibit. They also wanted to make the Pavilion modular so that it could be transported and easily assembled, but also strong and durable to hold up against ‘significant force.’
The Poly-Blocks were made without supports as the team maximized their efforts while producing as little waste as possible. The blocks are made with upcycling in mind, allowing ‘for creative re-use’ later, as they come in a variety of different lengths with hollowed-out interiors. The coolest part about these blocks though is that with varied infills, the team was able to optimize translucency. Coupled with a lighting system, each block offers a warm glow, as well as offering a small opening just big enough for wiring when the blocks are to be used later as small desk lamps upon being given away to each of the competitors at the end of the Rise Education’s Young Creator Cup. Now that’s different! Discuss further over in the Largest 3D Printed Structure forum at 3DPB.com.
Check out the video below to get a good look at the 3D printed Rise Pavilion.