Physical modeling is a key part of the planning phase but has fallen behind in terms of technology. Digitization and automation have refined the blueprinting and construction phases, but scale models have remained largely the same. 3D-printed architectural models can change that.

CAD software has made conventional model-building techniques like turning and milling faster and more accurate. 3D printing — also called additive manufacturing — takes these benefits further by minimizing manual involvement and adding material instead of cutting it away. Here are five ways this process redefines architectural modeling for the better.

1. Faster Turnaround Times

One of the biggest benefits of 3D-printed architectural models is that they’re much faster to produce. Once you have a finished digital design, the 3D printer can handle the rest of the process without intervention. As a result, architects can create physical models overnight or while working on other projects.

Complementary digital technologies further speed up these turnaround times. With modern design software, you can use thousands of ready-made 3D models in your larger plans. Plugging these elements in instead of designing them from scratch minimizes design time so you can start printing sooner.

Other methods still benefit from CAD and 3D modeling, but 3D printing retains that speed through production, not just in planning. As a result, it can lead to turnaround times of less than 24 hours in some cases.

2. Fidelity to CAD Models

Additive manufacturing is also highly precise. Just as CAD software reduces errors through automation in the design phase, 3D printing does the same to model-building.

3D printers follow digital designs to the letter autonomously. The only human involvement necessary is adjusting the specs and pressing “print.” As a result, they produce a physical product as faithful as possible to the digital model it represents. The only room for human error is in the design itself.

This precision ensures the time and care you spend creating digital designs doesn’t go to waste through a suboptimal physical modeling process. The model you give stakeholders will be exactly what you designed. Consequently, it’s easier for others to see your original vision, even if they don’t have access to the original CAD file.

3. Higher Level of Detail

Relatedly, 3D-printed architectural models can also feature more detail than conventional alternatives. Precision in machining and manual model construction is difficult because you need room to maneuver tools. Since additive manufacturing works by depositing material instead of cutting into it, it doesn’t share these constraints.

This level of detail is important for several reasons. First, it provides a more accurate representation of what the finished project will look like. That faithfulness, in turn, makes it easier to spot potential issues before moving to construction. Considering how rework accounts for 30% of all construction work, this error prevention makes a big difference.

More detail also makes a more engaging model. While that’s not as directly impactful as preventing rework, it improves your chances of getting buy-in from other stakeholders.

4. Sustainability

Additive manufacturing has environmental benefits as well. This process uses less energy than conventional methods and produces less material waste. 3D printers can also use biodegradable filaments to make the finished product more eco-friendly.

Sustainability has traditionally been a struggling point for this industry. Model creation certainly isn’t the only process to address to become more sustainable, but it’s an important step. Showing care for the environment here promotes a company-wide eco-friendly image.

Reducing emissions and waste will become increasingly important over time. As climate issues become more prominent and regulations rise, more sustainable businesses will win more public favor. In contrast, those that fail to become greener may lose business.

5. Cost-Efficient Promotion

Physical models, as a whole, provide a more eye-catching way to present a project or promote a development company than digital mock-ups. However, traditional means of making them are cost-intensive. Machining wastes valuable materials and manually constructing models is time-consuming.

3D-printed architectural models are the most cost-effective. They take less time to create and create little to no material waste. While these savings may be small in each specific instance, they add up over time when considering how many projects and models a team makes throughout the year.

Only 8.5% of construction projects finish within their original schedules and budgets. Businesses in this industry must save wherever possible, and conventionally costly models are a great place to do so. By embracing 3D printing, firms can lower their costs without sacrificing detailed physical models’ promotional value.

3D Printed Architectural Models Are the Industry’s Future

As 3D printing grows, its benefits and applications are becoming more impressive. Some companies have even begun 3D printing entire buildings. Many businesses may be unable to access this technology on that scale, but 3D-printed architectural models are a relatively easy way to optimize operations.

Project models are crucial, but construction companies can’t overlook their common pitfalls. Modernizing this practice through 3D printing will help firms make the most of their modeling.

Author Bio: Emily Newton

Cover image by Victor on Unsplash