A 3D-Printed AC Unit

While perhaps it could have been predicted decades ago that air conditioning units would evolve beyond basic Window AC to include Multi-Zone systems, among others, it’s likely that not many people could have envisioned an AC unit that could be created by a gizmo known as a 3D printer.

And yet, that’s exactly what has occurred, according to a report from 3DPrint.com: What is being hailed as the world’s first 3D printed air conditioning unit has been sold in China for $6395.

Of course, as 3D printing projects go, creating an AC unit isn’t an undertaking that’s exactly on par with apartment houses, which have also been created by using 3D printing methods. Still, the AC unit has garnered a great deal of attention for China, which seeks to be on the forefront of 3D printing technology – even the kind that can make a functioning and stylish air conditioner.

One impressive aspect of the unit, known as the Haier 3D printed air conditioner, is that it can be custom-created to a buyer’s exact specifications. Translation: Your AC unit can theoretically look any way that you would prefer it to look.

As the company explains, all of the pieces that comprise the unit are produced in an on-demand fashion, which helps to connect users’ preferences with the real-life manufacturing process. As a result, says Haier, “Every user can parametrically adjust their own model, depending on his/her taste and requirements. Each model is a unique piece.”

That includes the housing for the LCD display screen. In the future, 3D-printed AC units are also expected to use computer boards made from the 3D printing process. The company is said to hope that this level of customization will permit end users to add more and more personal touches to their AC units – such as quotes, photographs and even art work.

Air conditioning as art. Who could have imagined it?