Edinburgh Napier University has received equipment and software from Trimble to establish a state-of-the-art Technology Lab for architecture, engineering and construction (AEC)
The Technology Lab for architecture, engineering and construction aims to expand the Edinburgh Napier University’s leadership in training and research in 3D building design, digital fabrication and the sustainable built environment.
Partnering with Trimble allows Edinburgh Napier to fully integrate the technological tools that are rapidly transforming how buildings and living environments are designed and constructed. The lab will equip students with knowledge of the latest thinking in how to plan, design, build and manage engineering projects.
The Technology Lab for architecture, engineering and construction will provide students enrolled in Edinburgh Napier’s School of Engineering & the Built Environment, including architectural technology, civil engineering and project management programmes, with hands-on experience with Trimble solutions.
Applications of these solutions range from scanning buildings or sites, design and 3D printing of architectural building models and digital fabrication to implementing construction cost estimating and scheduling to improve productivity and reduce costs.
Allyson McDuffie, director of education & outreach at Trimble, said: “We’re extremely excited to be establishing a state-of-the-art Trimble Technology Lab in collaboration with Edinburgh Napier.
“Our mission in transforming the AEC industry requires that we invest in aspiring designers, architects, contractors, engineers and project management professionals by driving awareness of, and access to, industry-leading solutions for training and research.”
Prior to the Trimble Technology Lab being installed at the University’s Merchiston campus for the 2020/21 academic year, a pilot laboratory for student use will be launched on 10 December at the University’s facility at the 7 Hills Business Park at Sighthill.
Professor Andrea Nolan, principal and vice-chancellor of Edinburgh Napier University, added: “We are proud to be joining forces with Trimble to create the first dedicated Trimble Technology Laboratory in Scotland.
“This generous gift means students and researchers across Edinburgh Napier University will have access to technologies broadening our applications of surveying, 3D building modelling, performance analysis and digitally empowered delivery for the built environment in new and exciting ways.
“Our next generation of architectural technology, engineering, sustainable construction and surveying professionals at Edinburgh Napier will be able to experience and apply cutting-edge solutions to real-world built environment problems thanks to Trimble’s pioneering support.”
The Technology Lab for architecture, engineering and construction will include a broad range of Trimble’s solutions such as the Trimble® XR10 HoloLens with hardhat, Trimble mechanical total stations, a Trimble unmanned aircraft system (UAS) and a handheld scanner.
