3D model of Adelaide Oval unveiled

Tuesday, 20 January 2015

Visitors to Adelaide Oval can now view the iconic structure in a different light - thanks to the talents of two University of Adelaide students.

Architecture students Patrick Scott and Esther Yong spent more than 1690 hours building a stunning model of the Adelaide Oval which has now taken pride of place in the Oval’s Visitor Centre following today's official unveiling.

At 1:200 scale, the model is the largest of its type in Australia and one of the largest in the world to be constructed using the precision of a 3D printer.

"Adelaide Oval is an internationally recognised showcase of South Australian ingenuity, from engineering and construction through to food and wine, tourism and event management," said Adelaide Oval SMA Chairman John Olsen.

"Now, thanks to the amazing skill and hard work of Patrick and Esther, we also have a fantastic example of the talent of South Australia’s youth.

"More than 1.5 million people visit Adelaide Oval every year, and this model will enhance their experience by giving them the chance to understand the important architectural principles behind the design. The success of Adelaide Oval flows from the design - blending old with new, creating unique character, ambience and fan experience. We are delighted to welcome this important addition to the Oval."

The model replicates the famous Oval in every intricate detail from the modern stands to the heritage of the open northern mound, the Moreton Bay Fig trees and Sir Kenneth Milne scoreboard.

The model was created from the original Revit computer drawings used by the stadium's designers, Cox Architecture, before being 'built' using 3D printing technology.

"The Adelaide Oval scale model is an example of the capabilities of 3D printers, and the end product is a more precise model," said Professor George Zillante, Head of the School of Architecture and Built Environment at the University of Adelaide.

"Patrick and Esther used the plans of the stadium architects to develop the Oval's scale model, thereby retaining every aspect of the original design,” he said.

"While 3D printers are relatively new to the architecture industry, 3D printing will soon be an essential skill for architects, and the University of Adelaide is leading the way in upskilling its students in this technology.

"The skills Patrick and Esther have developed during this process have placed them among the most experienced 3D printers in the state. These skills, along with the experience gained in working with 'real' clients, will be invaluable when they enter the workforce. They have done a fantastic job and I am proud of them."

Adam Hannon, Senior Associate with Cox Architecture, praised the work of the students.

"More than a stadium, Adelaide Oval blends history, modern architecture and technology to create an events platform to transform the city and showcase South Australian innovation and ingenuity,” he said.

"We worked in close collaboration with the University team, using advanced software techniques to create a 3D model that captures both the design quality and built outcome of the Adelaide Oval project. We are very proud of what Patrick and Esther have achieved."

The scale model will be on permanent display in the Adelaide Oval Visitor Centre, home to the acclaimed Bradman Collection, from 10.00am to 4.00pm Monday to Friday.

View a video of the making of the 3D model.

 

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