News and Events

May 2009 – Architectural Events at RAPID – A huge success
Schaumburg, IL (USA), May 2009. The architecture track and workshop sponsored by Z Corp and organized by Materialise, was an overwhelming success. It is clear that rapid prototyping for architectural modeling is catching on. This amazing technology is proving to be a creative and profitable alternative to the traditional, grueling modeling process.

Materialise, world leader in software development for the rapid prototyping and manufacturing (RP&M) industry, worked closely with the Society of Manufacturing Engineers to line up the seven track speakers:

James Gardiner, PhD researcher, Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT)
Wright Yang, Designer, SWA Group
Catherine Tinker, President, Columbian Model & Exhibit Works Ltd
Saima Elahi, 3D Model Technician, Entire Imaging
Tara Anderson, Rapid Prototyping Specialist
David Gurrola, President, GROWit
Olimpio DeMarco, Director of Channel Program and Business Development, Z Corporation

Topics included sustainability, customizing designs to incorporate RP models, utilizing “Shrinkwrap” by Materialise to create water-tight/printable models, and construction scale rapid manufacturing. It was an exciting morning as the speakers showed pictures and actual RP models of their most impressive projects.

Being that the RAPID show was near Chicago this year, it was particularly interesting to see the progress of the Chicago Architecture Foundation’s model of the City of Chicago. This 25 foot by 30 foot model, featuring a 3 foot Willis (Sears) Tower, is coming to life through the efforts of Columbian Model & Exhibit Works, Baxter Healthcare, DSM Somos and Molex. Catherine Tinker walked the audience through the entire process from obtaining the original files through producing finished models, some of which were on display. To learn more about this exciting project or to participate in its creation, contact the Chicago Architecture Foundation.

Before the workshop began, Olimpio DeMarco director of channel program and business development for Z Corporation shared his insights on the new face of architectural modeling and how architects are using 3D printing today. Z Corp is leading the way with their 3D printers that are the fastest, most cost effective way to fabricate complex geometries in both pure white and high definition color. Their technology is driving the market as architects search for new ways of expressing creativity and design throughout the development process.

The afternoon workshop was packed with information for those interested in the architectural modeling process. Charles Overy, LGM and Saima Elahi, Entire Imaging shared their extensive experience on the subject and lead participants through the modeling process with candid insights on the tools currently available for preparing files for 3D printing.

See how you can streamline your modeling process and maximize your machine’s capacity! Contact Steve Griffiths to request a 30-day evaluation of Magics RP software. steve.griffiths@materialise.com