The world’s largest 3D printer has successfully constructed a house, showcasing its potential to streamline construction processes by reducing time and labor.
Meanwhile, an even larger printer was recently unveiled in Maine, suggesting the possibility of constructing entire neighborhoods.
The University of Maine (UMaine) recently unveiled a new 3D printer, known as the Factory of the Future 1.0 (FoF 1.0), at the Advanced Structures and Composites Center (ASCC). This printer, surpassing its predecessor in size, aims to advance sustainable manufacturing across various industries. (Photo: University of Maine)
The Factory of the Future (FoF 1.0)
The University of Maine (UMaine) recently unveiled a new 3D printer, known as the Factory of the Future 1.0 (FoF 1.0), at the Advanced Structures and Composites Center (ASCC).
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This printer, surpassing its predecessor in size, aims to advance sustainable manufacturing across various industries.
FoF 1.0 can print objects as large as 96 feet long by 32 feet wide by 18 feet high, with a printing speed of up to 500 pounds per hour.
This printer utilizes thermoplastic polymer and offers promising opportunities for eco-friendly and cost-effective manufacturing. It could be used in industries such as national security, affordable housing, bridge construction, and maritime vessel fabrication.
Substantial support from the Office of the Secretary of Defense through the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers made the development and fabrication of FoF 1.0 possible.
It is designed not only as a large-scale printer but also as a versatile system capable of dynamically switching between various manufacturing processes, including additive manufacturing, subtractive manufacturing, continuous tape layup, and robotic arm operations.
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Read Also: Creality Initiates Sale of K1 Max 3D Printer with Better Price and Exciting Features as well as Amazon Prime Day Offers
New Research Frontiers
FoF 1.0’s capabilities extend beyond traditional manufacturing processes, offering new research opportunities in collaborative robotics operations, sensor integration, high-performance computing, and artificial intelligence.
These advancements are expected to meet rigorous quality standards and drive innovation across multiple sectors.
“FoF 1.0 opens up new research frontiers to integrate these collaborative robotics operations at a very large scale with new sensors, high-performance computing and artificial intelligence to create born-certified systems that meet high quality standards,” ASCC Executive Director Habib Dagher said in a press release statement.
The printer’s potential extends to developing biobased feedstocks from Maine’s abundant wood residuals. Initiatives such as BioHome3D aim to leverage this technology to create sustainable and affordable housing solutions while advancing lightweight structures and vessel technologies crucial for national security.
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“Maine needs an estimated 80,000 additional homes by 2030, many specifically for households with incomes at or below the area median income.
This new technology allows UMaine-ASCC to scale up its research and production of its innovative biobased 3D printed home technology,” said MaineHousing’s Development Director Mark Wiesendanger.
“This effort creates another means of producing quality affordable housing, while further driving costs down, and using abundant wood residuals from Maine’s sawmills.”
Related Article: ‘Chameleon Robots:’ These Robots Can Change Colors and Mimic Their Surroundings Through 3D Printing
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Max McClung scored 12 of his 33 points in the fourth quarter, and the Windy City Bulls went on a 15-2 run in the fourth quarter to pull away for a 121-106 win over the Maine Celtics in an NBA G League game Friday night at the Portland Expo.
Kevin Knox II added 30 points, 21 in the second half.
Amari Williams led the Celtics with 26 points, nine rebounds and eight assists. Jalen Bridges made six 3-pointers and finished with 22 points, but the Celtics dropped to 2-8 in their last 10 games. Maine has lost four straight games at the Expo.
Press Herald sports writers nominate high school athletes from the prior week’s games.
Readers vote for their top choice and the winner will be announced in the newspapers the following Sunday all season long!
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A collective of environmental, arts and Indigenous-led organizations is collaborating to produce We Are the Watershed, a two-day event aimed at reconnecting humans with nature and revitalizing the health of waterways, estuaries, and the bay in Peskotomuhkatikuk (traditional Passamaquoddy territory). Events, including theatrical performances, music, culinary experiences and an exhibition of submitted artwork, will be held on May 1 and 2 at Eastport Arts Center (EAC). A publication of written and visual works will also be released with proceeds to support conservation efforts and spreading awareness of their impacts.
Submissions sought: Written and visual works are currently sought from artists and creatives on both sides of the border across Peskotomuhkatikuk for the publication, which will be sold by donation at the May event. Proceeds from the sale will be dedicated to related community-building efforts, public engagement, and continued restoration efforts. The deadline for digital submission for the publication is April 1.
Physical works can be dropped off at EAC Sunday, April 26 between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. to be a part of the exhibition, which will run May 1 through 15. Artists under 18 will receive 100% of the proceeds if they opt to put their pieces up for sale during the exhibit, which will run May 1 through May 15. Artists over 18 will receive 70% of the proceeds with the remainder going toward promoting awareness of and supporting conservation efforts for the Passamaquoddy Bay.
The Eastport Arts Center
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Every week through Apr 01, 2026. Friday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
