Phoenix: the 3D robotic printer that builds affordable homes

Isbel Lazaro, March 26, 2024. ICON has recently unveiled a series of technological breakthroughs set to revolutionize the residential construction sector. Among these is an innovative robotic printer called Phoenix, capable of constructing multi-story buildings efficiently and at low cost.
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Phoenix la impresora robótica 3D que fabrica casas económicas

The company ICON recently introduced an innovative robotic 3D printer called Phoenix, capable of constructing multi-story buildings efficiently and at low cost.

In addition, the company has introduced a green building material, a digital catalog with ready-to-use architectural designs and an AI Architect specializing in home design and construction. These technologies promise to speed up, economize and make more sustainable the process of building affordable, quality homes globally.

How does the ICON robotic 3D printer work?

Phoenix, ICON’s robotic system, differentiates itself by its ability to 3D print the entirety of a housing structure, from the foundation to the roof. This technological breakthrough was designed to optimize the speed and size of constructions, minimize assembly time and reduce labor requirements. As a result, ICON has managed to cut printing costs by half.

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This is how ICON’s robotic 3D printer operates. Source: ICON – 3D Tech

Unlike its predecessor, Vulcan, which requires a support structure, Phoenix operates by means of an extended articulated arm on a rotating base, which improves its versatility and reduces the time required for larger projects. Despite the challenges associated with the precision required to build habitable homes with a robotic arm, ICON has developed a stabilization system that prevents extrusion nozzle wobbleThe Phoenix House, for example, allows for the creation of larger and more complex structures.

Projects in the pipeline

ICON is currently accepting applications for projects using the Phoenix system, offering competitive start-up costs of $25 per square foot for walls or $80 per square foot, including foundation and roof.

This pricing proposal represents a significant reduction compared to traditional methods, with potential savings of up to $25,000 on an average U.S. home. Phoenix’s first engineering prototype has completed an 8.2-meter-tall architectural demonstration, which can be visited in Austin, Texas.

Jason Ballard, co-founder and CEO of ICON, projects a future where construction will be dominated by robotics and artificial intelligence, reducing costs and time while improving quality and reflecting the values of those who will inhabit these spaces. In addition, ICON has launched Vitruvius, an AI system dedicated to design and construction, capable of generating robust architecture and detailed plans from human and project inputs in minutes, promising a revolution in the planning and execution of construction projects.

It is important to note that the convergence of advanced technology and construction in the recent announcements from ICON’S RECENT ANNOUNCEMENTS not only portends a transformation in how homes and communities are built, but also highlights the importance of sustainability and efficiency in the sector.

As we move into an era of futuristic construction, it will be essential for industry professionals and society at large to adapt and embrace these innovations, ushering in a new dimension of housing that is both technologically advanced and environmentally friendly.

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Source and photo: ecoinventos.com

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