Red-light district reveals new bridge

The latest attraction in Amsterdam's red-light district is less about the flesh and more about the flash — as in flashy technology. Officials in the Netherlands' capital have unveiled a pedestrian bridge in the heart of the popular tourist district that has been made entirely through 3D technology. The eye-catching, flowing lines of the 12-metre span were created using a technique developed by Dutch firm MX3D that combines welding and robotics in a process called wire-and-arc additive manufacturing. Using sensors installed in the six-tonne structure, researchers at Imperial College in London will be able to monitor how and when the bridge is used. It will remain in place for two years while the bridge it replaced is renovated. Micha Mos, an Amsterdam councillor, hopes the bridge will bring in new tourists and help to clean up the district's sometimes seedy reputation. He told The Associated Press: “This may attract a new kind of visitor, one who is more interested in architecture and design, which will help change the way the neighbourhood is perceived as more of something you want to visit, but visit respectfully, than it has been over the last few decades.” Tim Geurtjens, of MX3D, said a “printed” bridge is a good option for highly decorative or elaborate spans. “Because it's not just about making things cheaper and more efficient for us,” he said. “It's about giving architects and designers a new tool — a new very cool tool.”