Date of Award
3-2020
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science in Engineering Management
Department
Department of Systems Engineering and Management
First Advisor
Steven J. Schuldt, PhD
Abstract
Conventional construction is believed by some to have reached its technological limit of performance, making it increasingly difficult for conventional construction methods to meet the U.S. military’s core standards of quality, cost, and timeliness in the expeditionary environment. While still in its infancy, 3D-printed construction has the potential to revolutionize the way the military performs construction in deployed environments. This research conducts a systematic review of the viability of 3D-printed construction to investigate whether or not it is now or could be a viable replacement for conventional construction methods, specifically in remote environments where conventional construction capability may be limited. This research then evaluates seven key viability factors – materials, structural design, process efficiency, logistics, labor, environmental impact, and cost – as they apply to two recent, military-run 3D-printed construction case studies, before drawing conclusions regarding the current viability of 3D-printed construction. Finally, this research suggests areas in which further research and development is needed in order to ensure the effectiveness of 3D-printed construction in the expeditionary environment.
AFIT Designator
AFIT-ENV-MS-20-M-217
DTIC Accession Number
AD1102213
Recommended Citation
Jagoda, Jeneé A., "An Analysis of the Viability of 3D-Printed Construction as an Alternative to Conventional Construction Methods in the Expeditionary Environment" (2020). Theses and Dissertations. 3240.
https://scholar.afit.edu/etd/3240