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The bridge located on the river within the Ningbo Campus of Zhejiang University connects the teaching area with the living area. The design starts from a flip-up rolling paper, and through artistic abstract expression and optimization in combination with 3D printing technology, a nonlinear bridge spatial form is formed. The bridge body, meticulously designed in conjunction with structural mechanics, presents a smooth and distinctive curvilinear shape and showcases unique aesthetic characteristics. The 3D printing technology enables materials to be precisely placed to ensure the stability and strength of the structure, as well as the perfect balance between the structural design and the material selection.
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The lush vegetation along the river has brought a lush and vibrant atmosphere to the site. With its non-linear spatial form and simple material colors, this 3D-printed bridge stands out as a highlight in the landscape. The open space of the bridge creates a sense of tranquility and comfort. People can traverse a physical distance through it while experiencing a unique spatial atmosphere. This kind of atmosphere can stimulate people's emotional resonance and enable them to achieve satisfaction and joy, thereby achieving the integration of human beings and environment. When the bridge is bathed in light, the surrounding plants, revetment, water and pedestrians create a harmonious scene.
Unlike traditional bridge construction methods, the 3D printing technology can precisely control the use of materials, reduce material waste and lower construction costs. Meanwhile, the construction process involves prefabrication in the factory and then on-site hoisting. Therefore, it features a relatively low energy consumption and can avoid the pollution and damage to the environment caused by on-site construction. The high-strength and durable materials used in the bridge ensure a long service life, which means that in the later stages of use, it does not require frequent repairs and component replacements, thereby reducing the impact on the environment.
The 3D printed bridge is made of high-strength concrete material, and the layer-by-layer construction method helps to form the desired shape. The high-strength materials can ensure the load-bearing capacity of the bridge. The surface of the bridge basically keeps the 3d printed texture to increase friction and improve anti-slip performance. At the same time, a waterproof and corrosion-resistant coating treatment is also carried out on the surface to enhance its durability in use.
The automation and digitization of 3D printing technology significantly enhance the design accuracy and efficiency of this practice. The computer simulation and analysis help optimize the structure of the bridge. Complex steel reinforcement joints are designed inside the bridge body, and the curved parts of the bridge adopt a special steel reinforcement joint connection method to ensure the stability and aesthetics of the structure. As a result, the integrated expression of technology and art can be truly achieved.
This practice witnesses the success of the first 3D-printed concrete bridge in Zhejiang Province. The bridge is the largest single-span 3D-printed concrete integrated reinforcement bridge in China and the world's largest non-linear spatial form reinforced printing concrete landscape bridge in terms of span. It provides a good example for the scientific research of architecture. By observing and studying the bridge, students and researchers can understand the application of 3D printing technology
The Architectural Design & Research Institute of Zhejiang University Co., Ltd. (UAD) was established in 1953. The mission of UAD is to seek “harmonious environment, global vision, design-teaching-research integration and innovation, and the highest professionalism”. UAD adopts the development strategy of “high-grade culture, broad vision, high-efficiency management, high-caliber talents, high professional technologies and high-quality works”, with the academic theory of “Balanced Architecture” as the design guideline. During the past decades, UAD has always persisted in creating fine and innovative works, contributing a large number of outstanding works in various fields.
