Canada-based structural engineering firm Fast + Epp has announced the launch of Concept Lab, a 5,500 sq. ft. collaborative research and workshop space.
The space, built at their office in Vancouver, is designed to accelerate innovation in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry.
Concept Lab, which occupies the entire ground floor and half of the second floor, will facilitate the research and development of new prototypes, demonstrate their feasibility, and use them as visualisation and communication tools.
It will serve as a springboard to cutting-edge design ideas for AEC firms, academia, and innovators alike, the company said in a press release yesterday.
Paul Fast, founder and partner, Fast + Epp, commented: “We are thrilled to launch Concept Lab, a physical space that will push the boundaries of research and development and inspire fresh thinking.
“Concept Lab will help turn our collective insights into effective real-world results. We hope to develop new technologies, practices, and procedures that will enable industry-wide innovation and positively impact the spaces where we live, work and play.”
Concept Lab is divided into four main areas. The development area consists of a material sample library and networking and hosting space for product launches and educational seminars for up to 150 guests.
The fabrication area features 3D printers, robotic fabrication machines, woodworking and metalworking tools.
A 45 tonne self-reacting structural loading frame and precise vibration instrumentation make up the testing area, while the digital area on the second floor is dedicated to software development, material optimisation strategies, parametric design techniques, and machine learning.
Main image: The Fast + Ebb Concept Lab (CNW Group/Fast+ Ebb)
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