FHNW sets new standards in teaching and research with new geomatics laboratory

Groundbreaking augmented reality solutions, state-of-the-art GPS systems, innovative robotic total stations and the latest generation of 3D laser scanners are all part of the equipment at the new Trimble Technology Lab FHNW, as are numerous software applications for data management, digital planning and collaboration. The FHNW is thus achieving a new standard in training and practice-oriented learning content in the fields of geomatics and digital construction, according to the statement. In addition, research and development projects at FHNW will be supported by the Trimble Technology Lab. "We are very pleased to be able to offer our students a unique infrastructure with the Trimble Technology Lab and to use it for research," says FHNW professor and project manager Stephan Nebiker. "We are convinced that the Trimble Technology Lab will make an important contribution to our future-oriented university education in geomatics and civil engineering, virtual design and construction (VDC), sustainable construction and architecture."

Excited about new geomatics lab

Geomatics students Nadja Pfister and Célina Neumann were able to use the Trimble Technology Lab even before its official opening to work on their bachelor's thesis and are thrilled: "The Trimble Technology Lab offers an unprecedented total solution of hardware and software components. This allows us students to get to know an even wider variety of working tools in geomatics and to quench our thirst for knowledge for trying out new combinations. It also provides us with a platform for exchange among ourselves, across semesters as well as projects. This allows us to benefit from the latest technology as well as from each other."

Focus on digital and sustainable design and construction 

The new Geomatics Lab at the FHNW Muttenz Campus is the 25th Trimble Technology Lab worldwide. It focuses on the key areas of "Planning and Geomatics" and thus complements the Trimble Technology Lab at the Sursee Campus, which will be inaugurated in March 2022 and focuses on the area of "Construction". Both labs are made possible by a generous gift from technology company Trimble. "Our goal is to change the industry," says Claude Chassot, Managing Director at Trimble Switzerland, explaining, "For us, the Trimble Technology Lab FHNW is another milestone in providing the next generation of professionals with technologies that help make the world better, faster, safer and more environmentally friendly."

Comprehensively equipped with pioneering technologies

The laboratory environment was arranged and designed by the MEB Group, which also supports training and further education together with its subsidiaries. "The Trimble Technology Lab provides direct access to a comprehensive portfolio of state-of-the-art equipment and software for surveying and Building Information Modeling (BIM). Together with FHNW and Trimble, we are making an important contribution to the successful digitalization of the Swiss surveying and construction industry," says Markus Brun, CEO of MEB Group.

The Trimble Technology Lab in Muttenz provides a wide range of Trimble's groundbreaking technologies, such as the XR10 mixed reality construction helmet with HoloLens 2, various GNSS receivers, controllers and tablets, robotic, universal and scanning total stations, and laser scanners. Students also have access to numerous software solutions in the lab, such as the popular 3D modeling software SketchUp Studio, the structural design software Tekla Structures, the collaboration platforms Trimble Connect and Trimble Quadri, and other software solutions such as Trimble Business Center, Trimble RealWorks, Trimble Novapoint, Trimble FieldLink, Trimble Siteworks and Trimble WorksOS. 

Trimble's comprehensive Connected Construction product portfolio enables all professionals along the project lifecycle to accelerate project processes, improve productivity, quality, visibility, safety and sustainability, while reducing wasted resources. 

Source and further information: University of Applied Sciences Northwestern Switzerland