University of Rochester VISTA Collaboratory

Pathfinder provided mechanical, fire protection and electrical engineering design for a 1,000 sq. ft. visualization laboratory on the first floor of the Carlson Library at the University of Rochester. The VISTA Collaboratory, a $1.2 million facility, is equipped with an interactive tiled-display wall that can render massive data sets in real time. This allows faculty, students and researchers the ability to visualize and analyze complex data instantaneously and collaboratively.

A 20’ wide and 8’ tall wall consists of 24 displays arranged in a curved matrix creating an immersive experience. Both static and dynamic visual content is clear and crisp at 50-megapixel resolution. The Collaboratory is directly connected to University supercomputers and operates like a desktop computer system.

High-efficiency lighting features touchscreen control for easy arrangement of lighting scenes to best suit occupant needs. Sensors were provided for the conference room and two offices with the offices featuring LED troffer lighting and programmable controls. Power to new equipment in the space, new HVAC equipment and the addition of data ports, entry card readers and WIFI hub posts were provided. Multiple floor stations allow for devices to connect to the visual panel and for various furniture configurations.

Mechanical design included revisions to the existing AHU/VAV system ductwork for heating and cooling to the conference room and offices. HVAC control sequence updates for make-up air unit and zone control via the building BMS were also provided. Updates to the fire protection system were provided.