When a High School Renovation Led to Revamping Thoams Jefferson high School for Science and Technology’s Robotics Lab
Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology, a Virginia state-chartered magnet school in Fairfax County, recently underwent a major renovation to update its facilities. As part of this renovation, the school aimed to revamp all its labs, including its cutting-edge robotics lab. With a focus on creating an advanced and functional learning space, Thomas Jefferson High School partnered with us to ensure the robotics lab would meet the needs of both students and instructors. Our involvement spanned the entire project, from selecting furniture and designing the layout to final installation, resulting in a state-of-the-art lab that supports innovative learning and hands-on robotics training.
Project Initiation
The renovation of the robotics lab began with an initial consultation to understand the specific requirements and vision of the school and the robotics instructor. Key priorities included creating a space that supported collaborative work, offered ample storage, and provided a safe environment for working with sensitive electronics. The robotics instructor emphasized the importance of incorporating Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) table surfaces to protect delicate electronic components from static electricity damage, a critical consideration when working with robotics.
Design and Layout Planning
Based on the instructor’s input, we developed a design plan that optimized both functionality and efficiency. The layout placed desks in the center of the lab, providing a collaborative space where students could gather for instruction and group work. Along the left and right sides of the room, we installed electronics workbenches equipped with ESD surfaces, ensuring a safe workspace for handling sensitive electronic components.
To further enhance functionality, we included risers with bin storage and overhead lights at each workstation, allowing students easy access to tools and parts while working on their projects. The integrated lighting improved visibility, crucial for the precision required in robotics work.
Specialized Workstations and Equipment
In addition to the central desks and side workbenches, the lab was outfitted with specialized stations to support a range of activities. A dedicated wall workbench was installed to house the school’s MakerBot and Stratasys 3D printers, as well as a laser cutter. This setup allowed for seamless integration of 3D printing and laser cutting into the robotics curriculum, enabling students to design and create custom parts for their projects.
Another workbench was designated for shop tools, such as a drill press and bandsaw, providing students with the necessary equipment for constructing and modifying robotic components. To support student collaboration and organization, we included 4-student workbenches with lockers for storage underneath, each equipped with a vice on top for holding materials securely during assembly or modification.
Storage Solutions
Effective storage was a key requirement for the robotics lab, given the variety of parts, tools, and materials used in robotics projects. We incorporated additional cabinets with bin storage throughout the lab, ensuring that every item had a designated place. This organization system not only kept the lab tidy but also made it easy for students to find and access the components they needed, enhancing productivity and minimizing downtime.
Implementation and Installation
Once the design was finalized, our team managed the implementation and installation process, ensuring that each element of the lab was installed according to the plan. We coordinated the delivery of furniture and equipment, carefully installing each piece to meet safety standards and functionality requirements. The inclusion of ESD surfaces, proper lighting, and accessible storage solutions created a lab environment that was both safe and conducive to learning.
Outcome
The revamped robotics lab at Thomas Jefferson High School has significantly elevated the school’s ability to deliver high-quality robotics education. The thoughtful layout and specialized workstations provide a dynamic space where students can collaborate, experiment, and innovate. The integration of ESD surfaces and organized storage solutions ensures that the lab remains a safe and efficient environment, supporting the school’s commitment to excellence in STEM education.
Conclusion
This case study highlights the importance of tailored solutions in creating effective educational spaces. By working closely with Thomas Jefferson High School and understanding their specific needs, we were able to deliver a robotics lab that not only meets current educational standards but also inspires future generations of engineers and innovators. The successful transformation of the lab demonstrates our dedication to enhancing learning environments through thoughtful design and high-quality installations.