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Innovation Lab: The Space

This guide provides information about the Innovation Lab: BHSU's campus makerspace.

Location and Features

Where can I find the Innovation Lab?

The Innovation Lab will be located in the lower level of the E. Y. Berry Library-Learning Center, Room 012. For a visual representation, see the area highlighted in yellow in the image below.

Highlighted location of the Innovation Lab in the Lower Level of the Library

What are some of the architectural features of the physical space?

Layout of the Innovation Lab with room numbers
The Innovation Lab is divided into four rooms:
  1. 012a, the primary maker space
  2. 013a, the audio production room
  3. 013, the video production room
  4. 013b, storage

Features and Layout

Primary Space

The primary maker space will have a dedicated exhaust for the laser cutter. The overall space was also evaluated by HVAC engineers specifically for air exchange to ensure air quality. While the renovation budget did not allow us to install snorkels—a type of ceiling-mounted, adjustable exhaust hood—connection points and ductwork will be installed so that we can add snorkels at a later time. In the interim, we will investigate in-room air filtration to address possible fumes and microfine particles from other equipment use.

The primary space will possess several fixed features:

  1. A countertop along most of the east and south walls, with above-counter electrical outlets and network connections
  2. A whiteboard mounted to the north wall (the wall separating the primary space and the video production room)
  3. A large screen mounted above the counter on the east wall for use in collaborative projects, demonstrations, presentations, or instruction

The counter will be home to several pieces of equipment, such as 3D printers and desktops, but will also be available as work space. In addition to the fixed elements, three tables are planned to be arranged in the center of the room. One table will be more durable and designed so that it may be used as a workbench. Our intent is to acquire some form of nesting or flip top tables for the remaining tables to match the nesting chairs. This will allow floorspace to be freed quickly should an activity require more room.

Audio & Video Production

Although not entirely soundproof, the walls of the audio and video production rooms will be constructed with sound dampening insulation and gypsum board (sheet rock). These two rooms will also include acoustic foam. The audio and video production rooms can operate either independently or in tandem as a small studio. A double-paned window will be placed between the audio and video production rooms, as well as conduit to allow for communication and recording cabling to run between them.

The east end of the video production room (the right side in Figure 2 below) will have a green screen. This room will also have a monitor on both the north and south walls for use as a teleprompter or other visual aid during recording. If budget allows, a small truss system and outlets are planned for the ceiling in this room, as well.

Storage

It's, well, storage space.