Dragonfly by PriestmanGoode from PriestmanGoode. on Vimeo.
London-based design consultancy PriestmanGoode revealed a concept for delivery drones called Dragonfly that could help transform cities by alleviating congestion due to truck traffic. “Drone technology has the potential to support the growing demand for delivery logistics in the future and have a positive environmental impact,” according to the firm’s press release. Small docks on the side of buildings would allow drones to land and drop off parcels. [PriestmanGoode]
Today, software developer Autodesk announced the release of AutoCAD 2019, which will include seven specialized toolsets and new web and mobile applications. The toolsets, which group together features in architecture, mechanical, electrical, M/E/P, plant 3D, map 3D, and raster design, can be mixed and matched for users in myriad disciplines. [ARCHITECT]
Researchers from ETH Zurich’s Chair of Architecture and Digital Fabrication have created a digital timber construction method using robotics, which allow for the more efficient manufacture of more complex structures. [Phys.org]
Courtesy University of Hawai‘i
The University of Hawai‘i announced that its Maui College campus will run entirely on solar energy in 2019. A partnership with Johnson Controls and Pacific Current will lead to the installation of photovoltaic panels on top of campus building rooftops and car park canopies. In 2015, Hawai’i became the first state in the country to commit to generating 100 percent renewable energy by 2045. [The University of Hawai‘i]
After the collapse of a concrete pedestrian bridge under construction at a Florida International University campus, the question on everyone’s minds is what happened? [Concrete Construction]
Call for Entries: ARCHITECT invites design firms, manufacturers, researchers, students, startups, and innovators in all building-related disciplines to enter our 12th annual R+D Awards by April 20. Winners will be featured in our July issue and online. [ARCHITECT]