This pilot focused on developing visually appealing outdoor furniture. The goal was to demonstrate the possibilities of 3D printing to a broad audience, including less technical individuals who might be more attracted to aesthetic furniture than to complex, abstract machines. The industrial Thomas More KUKA robot 3D printer was used as part of this initiative.
We collaborated with the post-graduate VOMO (furniture design) program. Their students designed 20 pieces of furniture that could be 3D-printed using a large-scale setup. The students of the Design & Manufacturing Technology program at Thomas More selected one of these designs to manufacture on a large scale using the AMobile—a mobile, large 3D-printing setup.
To celebrate the 25th anniversary of the VOMO course, an expo was hosted at the Furniture Museum in the city of Mechelen. Researcher Kevin Sel delivered a keynote during this expo, highlighting how 3D printing could change the furniture industry.
The Technology Follows Aesthetics pilot successfully highlighted the intersection of technology and creativity, showcasing the potential of 3D printing in furniture design. Through strategic collaboration, public demonstrations, and educational outreach, the pilot not only inspired designers but also engaged a wider audience, making AM technology more accessible and appealing to diverse groups.
