Report

Teaser, summary, work performed and final results

Periodic Reporting for period 1 - i-Contour (An innovative 3D Free-form manufacturing technology for the construction industry)

Teaser

The freeform construction, landscape & interior design market is impeded by cost, accuracy and logistical constraints. There is a perception that complex freeforms can only be incorporated into landmark projects with vast budgets. i-Contour technology presents an innovative...

Summary

The freeform construction, landscape & interior design market is impeded by cost, accuracy and logistical constraints. There is a perception that complex freeforms can only be incorporated into landmark projects with vast budgets. i-Contour technology presents an innovative end to end solution to design and deliver complex 3D freeform structures with up to 90% reductions in cost, high accuracy with respect to original CAD design and vastly improved logistics for a simple construction approach. i-Contour increases the accessibility of ambitious freeform design to a wider range of projects, including social and community schemes. i-Contour allows for significant reductions in raw material use, using sustainable PVC framing to reduce concrete volumes by up to 50%. This reduces weight, transportation costs, fuel and heavy machinery requirements. Overall project objectives were to evaluate the technical and financial viability of i-Contour and to define a clear business plan to ensure successful commercialisation of an enhanced i-Contour product.

Work performed

Technical Viability: Evaluation of technical strategy for software solutions and i-Contour 2.0 machine.
Results: Roadmap for software plug-in, machine optimization and new materials. Pilot test plan with preliminary partnering options
Industrial viability: Identification of strategy for serial manufacturing and assembly of i-Contour 2.0, cost benefit analysis of in-house vs. external production.
Results: Definition of manufacturing selection criteria, preferred manufacturing partner identified
Commercial Viability: Market analysis and commercialization strategy for market launch and growth.
Results: Definition of sales & technology licensing revenue streams for European and global commercialization, respectively. IPR and software development strategies.
Financial Viability: Financial feasibility of i-Contour in the first 5 years of operation and the impact of the two revenue streams on business model.
Results: Cash flow and profit & loss analysis, Risk analysis & mitigation plan, further funding plan

Final results

Progress: Demonstrated 90% cost reduction, 50% product weight reduction, 100% accuracy from fully automated process, complementary technology for competing state of the art 3D printing solution
Impact: Greatly reduced plastic & concrete consumption, greater cost reliability for landmark public projects. Massive budget and time savings for freeform projects, removal of cost based constraints on freeform market.

Website & more info

More info: https://www.clevercontour.com/.