Royal College Robotics South Laboratory

The project involved refurbishing and reconfiguring an existing space within the University of Strathclyde’s Category B listed Royal College building to provide a cutting-edge robotically-enabled sensing (RES) laboratory. The South Laboratory project, within Level 2 of the building, emerged from the need to relocate existing facilities within the TIC building into a double-height atrium space. This new location better aligned with the functional and spatial requirements and development aspirations of the stakeholders compared to their previous premises. This laboratory accommodates mobile robotics operation areas, laser scanning equipment, and optical tables, all managed by the Centre for Ultrasonic Engineering (CUE), one of the largest research groups of its kind worldwide. The new facility houses 11 robots and group working spaces to enable collaborative research, innovation, and training.

The new Robotically-Enabled Sensing Hub in the Royal College Building has integrated advanced robotics with sensing technology to enable in-process inspection of high-value composite and metal components. Non-destructive testing (NDT) technologies, including ultrasonic phased array, laser ultrasound, and eddy-current inspection, have allowed the University’s researchers to help the manufacturing and repair industries check the quality of components more quickly, easily, and cost-effectively.

The introduction of the hub has strengthened Strathclyde’s position to collaborate with other established UK and international robotics centres and industry partners, driving next-generation training, research, and innovation. The Learning Spaces Scotland Awards, which celebrate excellence in the sector, recognized the University Robotics South Laboratory for how its refurbishment has positively impacted the educational and research experiences of students and staff. The facility is a testament to the seamless integration of modern robotics technology within a traditional heritage building.

Awards:

• Winner: Learning Spaces Scotland Awards 2023 – Refurbishment of the Year Award category

Team:

• University of Strathclyde – Client & Clerk of Works
• ECD Architects – Architect / Contract Administrator / Lead Consultant
• Davie + McCulloch – Mechanical & Electrical Consultants
• Stantec – Structural Engineer
• Currie & Brown – Quantity Surveyor
• Keegans – Principal Designer
• Morris & Spottiswood – Main Contractor