# 3D-Printing Concrete: Sketch to real-scale prototype > 3D printing has been a big trend in recent years. It has gradually moved from small desk printers to larger-scale buildings. Architecture itself has always been closely tied to the technologies of the time. Today, we have a strong computing power for the digital design of comple… ## At a glance - Format: On-demand course - Price: €102.00 (list €120.00) - Difficulty: Beginner - Duration: 8 Hours - Schedule: Mar 1-2, 2025 - Instructors: Kristýna Uhrová, Jiří Uran Vítek, Michal Macuda - Categories: 3D-Printing, Design Workshops - Software: Rhinoceros 3D, Grasshopper 3D, Ladybug, Karamba3D, Pufferfish, Monoceros - Students: 62 - Rating: 4.8 / 5 - Canonical: https://paacademy.com/course/3d-printing-concrete-sketch-to-real-scale-prototype - Enroll: https://paacademy.com/course/3d-printing-concrete-sketch-to-real-scale-prototype --- ## About this course This workshop teaches how to design and create architectural elements for 3D concrete printing using Rhinoceros and Grasshopper. ## What you'll learn - Learn the basics and applications of 3D concrete printing in architecture. - Master design techniques specifically for 3D printing. - Gain hands-on experience with Rhinoceros 7 and Grasshopper. - Transform designs into real-scale 3D prints. - Discover the challenges and limitations of 3D concrete printing technology. ## Methodology In this workshop, we chose to design one element of architecture - a part of the façade of a house. During the workshop, we will go through the whole process from the initial design to the actual materialization. We'll start with some theory, history, and context of architecture and 3D printing to understand the overall challenges. We'll look at how to design specifically for this technology and how it differs from traditional design. We will be using Rhino 7 and Grasshopper for design. It is necessary to have at least basic knowledge and orientation of these tools. We believe that in the near future, a new type of profession will be needed - 3DCP Architect - an architect specialized in 3D printing - because it is not just about the form itself, but it is important to understand this new technology, what its limitations are and what it brings, and how to design for it and how it differs from the traditional approach to design. The result of the weekend will be a segment of the load-bearing facade with data ready for 3D printing. **As a bonus, 1-2 best student designs will be printed in concrete on a 3D printer on a real scale!** ## Requirements [Karamba3D](https://karamba3d.com/get-started/demo/) (Demo license is sufficient) ## Curriculum ### Session 1 - Intro + PAACADEMY Updates (05:43) - 3D concrete printing evolution (32:37) - Innovative Architectural 3D Printing (53:09) - Revolutionizing Construction with 3D Printing (44:29) - Parametric Optimization with Grasshopper (54:58) - 3D Printing Wall Preparation (31:19) ### Session 2 - 3D printing concrete challenges (38:50) - Grasshopper Modular Design (44:10) - Grasshopper for 3D Printing (46:05) - Parametric Design for 3D Printing (45:48) - Real-Scale Prototype Printing Assignment (01:01:36) ## FAQ ### What software and plugins will I need to participate in this workshop? You will use Rhinoceros 7 and Grasshopper 3D, along with plugins including Karamba3D (demo license is sufficient), Ladybug, Pufferfish, and Monoceros. ### What prior knowledge or experience is required before taking this course? Participants are expected to have basic knowledge and orientation in Rhino 7 and Grasshopper 3D, and software installation must be completed prior to the workshop. ### What specific project will we design and prepare for fabrication during the sessions? You will design a segment of a load-bearing facade and generate the data necessary for 3D concrete printing. ### What 3D concrete printing workflows and fabrication strategies will be covered? You will learn printing strategies, infill structure design, parametric optimization, and the technical considerations required to translate digital designs into 3DCP technology. ### Is there an opportunity to see our digital designs turned into a physical print? One or two of the best student designs will be physically printed in concrete at real scale on a printer.