As part of an indigenous research and development programme, IIT Guwahati, one of India’s premier technical institutes, built a 3D printed sentry post for the Indian Army. According to a defence press release, the Army’s engineer wing can set up the sentry post at its intended location within 24 hours.
The research and development programme was carried out in accordance with a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed earlier this year between the Eastern Army Command and IIT Guwahati on developing cost-effective and sustainable defence infrastructure for the Army.
3D Printed Sentry Post For Indian Army
Manufactur3D reported earlier this year that IIT Guwahati had purchased a concrete 3D printer from Belgaum-based 3D printer manufacturer, DELTASYS E-FORMING. IIT Guwahati researchers used it in January of this year to 3D print furniture out of construction waste.
In this recent development, the IIT team built the first 3D printed sentry post in the region, which was formally handed over to the Indian Army by IIT Authorities on Thursday at a function held on the IIT Campus, highlighting the Indian Army’s initiative in embracing new technologies for defence infrastructure development in collaboration with the country’s premier academic institutions.
“Construction time at site will be only 24 hours for an engineer section. 3D printing technology can be an alternative to conventional construction methods which has many limitations like longer construction time, availability of material at site etc.”
– Lt Col Mahender Rawat, Defence spokesperson, Indian Army
The prototype demonstrates the capability of rapid construction using 3D printed technology, which can be used in border areas where traditional construction is difficult due to inclement weather, terrain, and altitude constraints. The 3D printed sentry post is completely modular and can be transported to and assembled on-site.
The Indian defence forces have been really active and bullish in using the 3DCP technology for building various Army structures like 3D printed houses in Gujarat and 3D printed runway controller hut at Pune Air Force station.
Originally published on ANI.
