Efficient manufacturing technology for complex architecture
Finding a cost-efficient solution to create fluid, complex shapes has been the Holy Grail of architecture and engineering worldwide. Svelte uses a proprietary, unique, innovative machine system to generate all types of curved surfaces on an industrial scale, in one straightforward operation, at a fraction of the cost and time of current methods. Svelte works on a patented advanced cutting method using a heated SmartWire that changes its shape while moving through foam or wax-based materials to generate the desired surfaces.

Svelte disrupts the currently used CNC milling processes similarly to how 3D printers impacted the prototyping industry, pushing the boundaries of what is possible today to change architecture as we know it. A Svelte produced mould is at least 50% cheaper than a regular milled mould and has the ability to be mass produced in minutes, making the output of a single Svelte system equivalent to approximately 48 CNC machines. 

Svelte will therefore enable for the first time growth in the emerging special buildings niche to achieve the spectacular, innovative, energy efficient fluid forms of the future; but also generate substantial savings in the traditional building sector. Integrating Svelte cut shapes in existing building projects preserves their structural integrity, but uses up to 30% less construction materials, adding up to significant savings in energy, water, sand, CO2, coal, methane, NOX, and PM10 particles in Europe’s most polluting industry.

Having confirmed Svelte’s market acceptance and potential during the SME Instrument Phase 1 project, the focus is now on bringing the technology to TRL 9 during the proposed EIC project. In this scope we envision the optimization of the machine’s cutting function and prepare it for scaling to commence commercialization under both a FIAB model, but also as a SaaS solution producing moulds and panels in our own production facility.