"This bridge will show how 3D printing finally enters the world of large-scale, functional objects."
A robotic 3D printer that exudes cords of molten steel will soon trace out the scaffolding for the world’s first 3D printed bridge, according to the Amsterdam-based inventors of the device.
The project was conceived by Dutch 3D printing company, MX3D, along with the engineering software giant, Autodesk, in order to showcase a new generation of 3D printers that can trace out sturdy yet graceful lines of steel in midair.
“This bridge will show how 3D printing finally enters the world of large-scale, functional objects and sustainable materials while allowing unprecedented freedom of form,” said bridge designer Joris Laarman.
An artist’s rendering shows the robotic printers inching along a partially constructed span, while gradually tracing out the path ahead. Construction will take place over two fateful months in 2017, the designers told Fast Company.
This article originally appeared on Time.com
