ABB, the global leader in power and automation, has unveiled the smart building technology it has supplied for the world’s first 3D printed office building, the ‘Office of the Future’ in Dubai, UAE.

ABB provides the lighting control; lightning, earthing and overvoltage protection; the main and sub-distribution boards; the wiring accessories; and the cable management system.

The unique building on the Emirates Towers premises will house the temporary office of the Dubai Future Foundation.

The electrotechnical building infrastructure management is controlled by the KNX building management communications protocol and ABB has supplied its ABB i-bus KNX intelligent lighting control system, which interfaces with third party communications protocols.

This enables the control of the brightness, colour and mood for comfort and convenience – lighting scenes can be managed remotely via a tablet. Additionally, KNX lighting control can deliver energy efficiency of up to 25 per cent compared to a building without automated lighting.

Mike Mustapha, head of ABB’s Building Products business, said: “As a pioneering technology leader, ABB is proud to play its part in this landmark project.  The ‘Office of the Future’ is a showcase for futuristic building projects and our technology helps support the goals of this project.  The intuitive interface and beautifully designed accessories enhance the aesthetics of the interior.

“ABB is a specialist in supplying smart building solutions, electrical protection and control systems and wiring accessories to a wide range of building types and we pride ourselves in our ability to tailor our solutions to a range of needs.  This took innovation to the next level – in line with our own technology strategy.”

A 3D-printer measuring 20 ft high, 120 ft long and 40 ft wide was used to print the building.  The 3D-printed office was constructed in just two weeks, using a special mixture of cement.  Innovative features have been adopted in the office building to reduce energy consumption such as window shades to offer protection from direct sunlight and keep the building cool. – TradeArabia News Service