With summer now in full swing, we’ve got our minds on upcoming holidays. Lemki Robotix, a German-Ukrainian start-up and innovator in the field of large-format 3D printing with composite materials, has created a 3D printed camper that may be just right for your next getaway. The 3D printed camper impressively demonstrates the possibilities of additive manufacturing and other cutting-edge technologies. The prototype is ready for production, so we caught up with the team to find out more.
3DN: Can you introduce Lemki Robotix?
Our team has been working with robotics and CNC machines since 2014. This field is not new to us, but we are always striving to open up new horizons. In 2021, we began developing the first 3D printer for concrete printing. We made our own extruder and raw material, but ultimately decided to focus on 3D printing with composite materials. In our view, this technology is more flexible and allows us to adapt materials to specific tasks. In 2022, we began building our own 3D printer for printing large surfaces with composite materials (FGF printing), and, in the same year, the first prototype was manufactured on the basis of the KUKA robot. We also developed software that enabled us to carry out a whole series of printing experiments: from testing movements to adjusting extrusion speed and combining materials. In the same year, Lemki Robotix and iSCALE3D joined forces to develop everything needed for large-scale 3D printing, from the manufacture of the printing equipment to the smallest detail of the finished product. We specialize in the development of parametric modeling, which enables us to efficiently adapt designs, from changes in body angle to the repositioning of doors and struts. This facilitates optimization of production processes and enables us to respond more rapidly to customer requests.
The motorhome can accommodate a family of three.
3DN: Can you tell us more about DISCOVER 3D?
The DISCOVER 3D is our third motorhome made using 3D printing. The first two prototypes were improved after testing, enabling us to optimize the printing process, design and materials. The body of the motorhome is made from recycled polypropylene (approx. 7,400 bottles) with glass fibers (30%) and a modifier to reduce internal stresses. The doors are made of recycled polyurethane, ensuring stability over a temperature range from -35°C to +60°C.
We’re particularly proud of our close collaboration with renowned designers: Oksana Zadiranchuk, a renowned Ukrainian designer, developed the harmonious exterior of DISCOVER 3D. Marian Stehura, a talented interior designer, created a unique bionic-inspired interior, both modern and ergonomic. In addition, the motorhome is equipped with autonomous batteries to which solar panels can be connected. It is also equipped with sensors to monitor important parameters such as temperature, water level and battery charge, making it durable and suitable for all climatic zones.
The camper interior also offers ample space and comfort
3DN: Which technologies and materials do you use and why?
Today, we use a wide range of composite materials, such as a mixture of recycled plastics with glass fibers, carbon fibers or mineral fillers. We choose composite materials for furniture and boat printing, for the manufacture of facade signs, and for structural parts in mechanical engineering. In collaboration with Bohdan Savchenko, professor at the University of Kiev and Doctor of Technical Sciences, we have improved a series of materials that we use in our projects. As explained above, we use recycled PP and polyurethane. This mix of materials ensures exceptional resistance to rust, excellent acoustic insulation and low thermal conductivity, guaranteeing both comfort and durability. Additive manufacturing also enables us to reduce the production time for the main part of the motorhome from three to seven days, which, of course, reduces energy consumption.
3D printing technology, in this case large-scale printing with composite materials (FGF printing), mimics nature’s best builders: insects. Like bees, we use a polymer and mix it with a mineral to create the perfect composite building material. And like ants, we lay it down layer by layer to create a structure with unique properties. It’s all natural, and bionic design is a logical extension of our work.
3DN: What are the advantages of Lemki Robotix’s camping cars?
The main advantages are, above all, durability. This means that the materials we use do not rust, and they also have low thermal conductivity. What’s more, they weigh just 400 kg for a floor area of 5.5 m² – almost half that of conventional models. Energy efficiency is another advantage of our motorhomes, as their aerodynamic shape and low weight reduce fuel consumption, especially on long journeys. What’s more, 3D printing offers the possibility of creating structures that are completely seamless, water-resistant and highly impact-resistant. Traditional motorhomes often require costly sealing of welds and fittings – a problem that our monolithic construction completely eliminates. But durability also plays an important role, since they are up to 80% recyclable, and local repair and remanufacturing are entirely possible. Another important point is that the motorhomes are up to 20-40% less expensive than traditional motorhomes, which can range from $20,000 to $40,000.
3DN: What are Lemki Robotix’s current projects?
We are currently working on new motorhome models, including a family motorhome for four people, as well as a compact home for extreme leisure activities. Another project involves capsule-type dwellings, which should be particularly advantageous for long journeys. Our team recently completed the development and patenting of a building material based on stone powder. After testing it, we plan to build small houses that can be used as guest houses, offices or workshops, as well as 3D printing capsule hotels with unique designs.
3DN: Any last words for our readers?
We’re already gearing up for mass production of motorhomes and accepting pre-orders on our website. The first customers will receive their motorhomes as early as next summer. Visit our website HERE to find out more!
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*All Photo Credits: Lemki Robotix