The American University of Sharjah (AUS) says its recent ‘Robotics and 3D Printing in the Construction Industry Showtime’ event demonstrated how emerging 3D printing and robotics technology will have an impact on the construction sector and progress to diversify the UAE economy.

The programme is a cooperation project of the AUS, Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park (SRTIP) and the Oulu University of Applied Sciences, aimed at developing a world-class innovation system in Sharjah.

Hussain Al Mahmoudi, CEO of AUS Enterprises (AUSE) and CEO of Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park (SRTIP), said the programme focused on exploring the best ways to apply 3D printing techniques within the construction sector locally and regionally. He added that the success of this initiative is an important addition to the efforts aimed at enhancing Sharjah’s leadership on the “global innovation, development and knowledge landscape,” in line with the directives of H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the UAE Supreme Council, Ruler of Sharjah, in making scientific research and innovation an everlasting culture in the emirate.

“The collaboration between the AUS, Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park and the Oulu University of Applied Sciences has produced remarkable results in enriching knowledge and sharing of expertise in the 3D printing industry, which is expected to contribute USD 300 billion to the global economy by 2025,” added Al Mahmoudi. “We look forward to our international partnerships and initiatives to enhance the role of Sharjah as a leading hub for robotics and 3D printing in the construction sector. We will continue to consolidate channels of effective communication with Oulu University to transform our aspirations into developing a world-class ecosystem that supports innovation in construction field and 3D printing in UAE”

Research workshops witnessed participation from main departments of the American University of Sharjah, including civil engineering, mechatronics engineering, industrial engineering, architecture and design. Visiting students from Finland carried out joint projects with focus on Architecture and Design, Mechatronics, Information and Communications Technology, and Construction Management.

“I am really excited about the ‘Sharjah Construction Industry Innovation Challenge Program.’ The Program provides a good platform for public-private partnership and promotes cooperation between the UAE and Finland. We will deepen our interdisciplinary cooperation with different fields, including ICT, Mechatronics, Design Thinking and other most sought-after skill sets of the 21st century,” said Kimmo Paajanen, international project manager, Oulu University of Applied Sciences, Finland.

Discussions between the American University of Sharjah Enterprise and POHTO Ltd identified safety as an important area for development.

“The Finnish Innovation Hub will be an excellent platform for Finnish companies to enter local businesses and to get involved in remarkable scientific projects in collaboration with the American University of Sharjah,” said Matti Ponkala, Managing Director of Ponkala Architects Ltd, a company specialising in 3D-printed buildings.

Development manager, POHTO Ltd, Pertti Kortejärvi observed that the collaborations between the companies from Finland and UAE will help to create a practical and safe environment.