SMU Center for Digital and Human-Augmented Manufacturing
The new Center for Digital and Human-Augmented Manufacturing at Southern Methodist University (SMU) is an innovative, 5,000 sf robotics and digital manufacturing lab for the Lyle School of Engineering. This pioneering learning environment combines research, industry partnerships and cutting-edge technology. The center equips students with a high-tech space to explore how the latest technologies—including digital modeling, simulations, augmented reality, robotics, automation and AI—are catalysts for the future of manufacturing. FBT worked alongside SMU to design the new space within a three-dimensional design environment including realistic renderings and fly-through videos. Our collaborative process helped refine project goals, uncover future opportunities and deliver a workable research lab and learning environment within the existing J. Lindsey Embrey Engineering building.
One of the many unique features of this project includes the command center—a conference room with eight video screens with feeds from all the Robotics Research cells. This unique space allows visiting researchers and industry leaders to observe and engage with the robotics lab. The multi-purpose command center space is also used for presentations and meetings with visiting industry leaders.
The new Center for Digital and Human-Augmented Manufacturing not only aims to equip students and the university with the tools to learn and explore—it will ultimately serve as a catalyst to shape the future of manufacturing innovation by fostering industry and community collaboration.
- 4,000 sf
- Architecture
- Interiors
- Robotics Cells
- Research & Learning Lab
- Conference Room / Command Center
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