Product Engineering

Abstract

This project transformed fragmented, poorly lit offices into a unified collaborative workplace for product engineering. In the former spaces, CAD operators fixed cardboard shields around their monitors to reduce the glare of overhead lights. We began by removing ceilings, partitions, and portions of the roof to allow light into the center of the space. A central, suspended light-diffusing hood defines the CAD group within the space and provides a controlled light environment for their work. The open ends of the hood allow collaboration with engineers. The frame assembly of steel plate, rods, and cotter pins permits the suspended polycarbonate panels to be dropped for cleaning and the lamping of fixtures. The presence of the frame in enclosed offices and conference rooms was minimized to increase transparency.