The European Space Agency is funding a €1.65 million project to develop protective Smart Skin technology for robotic arms used in space exploration. A pan-European consortium led by Denmark's Technological Institute will create this covering to shield cobots operating in the harsh space environment.
GE Vernova is acquiring Robotech Automation to strengthen its robotics capabilities in supply chain operations. The acquisition builds on their existing partnership and expands automation integration across energy sector projects.
Skanska and ABC Companies announce leadership transitions as part of ongoing executive restructuring efforts. A Tutor Perini subsidiary secured a $61.6 million Coast Guard contract, and a 3D printing construction firm is expanding operations into Michigan.
FITASY, a 3D printed custom footwear company, now allows customers to order single shoes at half the pair price, addressing needs of prosthetic users and others requiring one shoe. The platform update expands accessibility options for workers with different footwear requirements.
The 2026 construction market will be neither strong nor weak, instead favoring companies that execute well operationally. Success will depend on disciplined management practices rather than market tailwinds.
The 2nd Armored Cavalry Regiment used 3D printing technology to improve equipment readiness and logistics during FlyTrap 5.0, a multinational military exercise in Lithuania involving nearly 1,000 troops. The exercise tested counter-drone systems, electronic warfare, and unmanned ground vehicles under live combat conditions, demonstrating how additive manufacturing enhances operational capability and equipment availability.
Digital twins are being applied to bioprocess manufacturing facilities to simulate operations, optimize workflows, and reduce costly real-world testing before construction and startup. This technology helps facility planners identify design issues early and adapt facilities to changing production needs without major physical modifications.
UltiMaker introduced the Factor 4 Plus, an industrial 3D printing system designed for high-volume manufacturing and defense applications that delivers roughly twice the output speed of the standard Factor 4. The new platform targets continuous production workflows where construction and industrial manufacturers need faster, reliable additive manufacturing capabilities.
Multiple chapters have been recognized for their outstanding safety achievements and practices. These awards highlight organizations that have prioritized worker protection and incident prevention across their operations.
Snapmaker hired Radu Ratdoux, developer of the Full Spectrum color-mixing slicer, to lead a new multicolor 3D printing software initiative announced in May 2026. The move positions the desktop 3D printer manufacturer to advance multicolor additive manufacturing capabilities for construction and manufacturing applications.
Procore has integrated AI agents from its Datagrid acquisition into its construction management platform to automatically review RFIs, submittals, and contracts. The new AI review functions aim to streamline document processing and reduce manual administrative work for construction teams.
The Additive Manufacturing Cooperative Research Centre has greenlit five industry-led research projects backed by $11 million in combined funding to advance 3D printing technology across Australia. The approved CORE projects focus on expanding additive manufacturing capabilities and applications within the construction and related industries.
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James P. Roubal, co-founder of DLR Group, has died at 94 after pioneering the integrated design firm model that combined engineering and architecture services. The firm he started in an Omaha basement has grown to 1,800 employees across 36 offices worldwide.
French elastomer company Lynxter has developed SIL-004, a 3D printable silicone material that is FDA-certified for direct food contact applications. This platinum-cured liquid silicone marks the first 3D printable silicone to meet FDA CFR 21 177-2600 certification standards.
Brain Corp is partnering with UC San Diego to advance artificial intelligence capabilities that enable robots to work effectively in complex job site environments. The collaboration leverages Brain's existing network of over 50,000 deployed robots worldwide to improve their operational capabilities.
America Makes and the National Center for Defense Manufacturing and Machining selected six suppliers to participate in a $1.7 million project focused on qualifying additive manufacturing for defense sustainment applications. The Joint Additive Qualification for Sustainment program aims to advance 3D printing capabilities and supplier readiness in the defense manufacturing sector.
A Chicago-based contractor filed a class action lawsuit against Deere, claiming the right to repair its own skid steers, compact loaders, and excavators without being forced to use Deere's dealer network. The lawsuit centers on whether equipment owners can service their machines independently rather than relying solely on manufacturer-authorized repair channels.
HydroBlok, a Utah-based company, has developed a new stucco substrate that improves traditional application methods, including the scratch coat phase. Arizona contractor Betsy Olson recently used the product on her own home build with positive results.
The EPA's Office of Inspector General reported that unfilled positions on the Chemical Safety Board may prevent it from effectively carrying out its mission to oversee chemical safety. Construction sites and industrial operations depend on the board's oversight to establish safety standards and investigate incidents.
A craftsperson with nearly 50 years of building experience discusses the pride in quality workmanship and the specific challenge of blending brick repairs seamlessly into existing surfaces. The goal of invisible repairs requires skill and technique to match the original work so closely that the repair goes unnoticed.
FANUC has partnered with Google and NVIDIA to enhance its physical AI system for robots, which debuted at IREX in Tokyo. Customer demand for the technology has increased significantly since its initial release.
John Deere's new MB60 Material Boom attachment lifts 6,000 pounds and enables skid steers, compact track loaders, and compact wheel loaders to place loads in tight spaces that would otherwise be inaccessible. The boom expands the capability of compact equipment to handle awkward materials in confined jobsite areas.
Titan has launched a new line of rubber tracks designed for mini excavators that deliver improved traction across challenging conditions like mud, snow, and abrasive sites. The tracks are engineered to extend service life and reduce downtime on compact equipment jobsites.
A collector restored a rare 1918 Holt 5-Ton crawler tractor that was originally built for World War I artillery transport. The project showcases the engineering durability of early tracked vehicles that became foundational to modern construction equipment design.