3DExpress: 3D Printed “Food Street” Opens at Indian University

This week’s 3DExpress takes us to India and the United States. First, we cover a “Food Street” at Ashoka University with 3D printed kitchens. Then, we touch on the expansion of dental 3D printing at an Alabama Air Force base. We also look at Disney’s first permanent 3D printed theme park prop and new proposed legislation in New York aimed at regulating 3D printed firearms.

The Hungry Caterpillar from Lyth Design

The Mumbai-based studio Lyth Design recently completed a “food street” at Ashoka University: an unconventional canteen called the Hungry Caterpillar. Designed by architect Apoorva Shroff, the project drew inspiration from nature, envisioning a cocoon-like form nestled within the existing tree canopy. The resulting space combines this organic vision with a strong focus on responsible design. The kitchens were concrete-3D printed by Micob Pvt. Ltd. and assembled on campus. This construction method allowed for an efficient, low-waste process while integrating practical features such as thermal insulation within the wall cavities. Overhead, a striking bamboo gridshell provides shade. The caterpillar-like structure curves in two directions and spans up to 19 meters, using layered bamboo elements and finished with a crushed bamboo mat. These 3D printed kitchens and bamboo canopy create a food street that is sure to comfort its visitors!

(Photo Credit: Lyth Design)

Airforce Base Restoring In-House Oral Surgery with Help of 3D Printing

The Maxwell Airforce Base in Alabama is now integrating advanced digital dentistry and oral surgery to serve Airmen on site. Previously, the dental flight had to refer Airmen elsewhere for processes like root canals, implants, and wisdom teeth procedures. Now, with new training and technology, the Maxwell Medical Group’s Dental Flight will perform these procedures in-house, and even periodontal surgeries like sinus lifts and ridge augmentation. “When patients are deploying, we ensure that they are ready to go. If they do have things that are limiting them from going, we will stop what we’re doing to get them out the door,” said U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Ernessie Ladouceur, Maxwell Medical Group dental flight chief. The base has two 3D printers and operates entirely digitally: they scan everything and 3D print models and mill restorations. The digitization of this process ensures that the Airmen’s medical information is centralized and accessible.