Detail

Three students from SP are developing an AI tool called BuilderLab, which uses generative AI to turn simple text prompts into physical hardware product designs. The tool can refine product concepts, generate 3D models and internal component layouts, and provide advice on prototyping and manufacturing. The students were inspired by the difficulty of developing hardware, which often requires knowledge of industrial design, electronics, 3D modelling, and manufacturing. After a year of development, BuilderLab has evolved from a 3D-printing project into an integrated service that can analyse technical requirements and connect users with manufacturers. The team has already gathered more than 40 Asian manufacturing suppliers and received support from 13 start-ups. BuilderLab won first prize at the inaugural Chua Thian Poh Summit innovation competition, themed “AI for Good and Smart Cities.” The competition received more than 160 submissions, with 11 teams from Singapore's higher-education institutions reaching the finals. The competition was organised by NTU, with the first three prizes worth $100,000, $50,000, and $30,000, respectively. 

[Lianhe Zaobao]