The University of Sheffield applies projection and visualization for multidisciplinary teaching

The Diamond Building of this English academic institution has been recognized as an example of a modern interdisciplinary teaching space based on Panasonic projection and visualization solutions.

With more than 26.000 students and a staff of 5.000 employees, the University of Sheffield, located in this English town, has made a significant investment not only in the construction of the Diamond building, which houses specialized engineering teaching facilities, different amphitheaters, seminar rooms, open learning environments, library services and social spaces, but in audiovisual infrastructure in order to “guarantee the excellence of the building both from a technical and architectural point of view”.

For this project, Those responsible for the university selected the visualization and projection technology of Panasonic, with a display of 77 projectors, 87 digital screens and a set of cameras from this manufacturer with the aim of offering an innovative learning experience.

Versatile visual systems

In the Diamond Building, Panasonic digital displays are used for different applications, like digital menus in the cafeteria, as information points for students and teachers and for general digital signage purposes throughout the facility's infrastructure, as well as for the configuration on a large video wall in the reception area as a welcome to the venue.

For Ian Knowles, Head of Learning and Teaching Infrastructure at the University of Sheffield, “image quality is great. Our building is open 24/7, “so we needed screens that could work continuously”.

The volume of students and teachers using the Diamond building translates into a constant flow of people on the move., Therefore, it is important that the screens offer a brightness and resolution capable of attracting the attention of all the people who pass by.. The university uses these visual systems to transmit messages, events, etc. related to daily life in the academic institution.

Gareth Day, Head of Panasonic Visual Systems in the United Kingdom, emphasizes that “this range of screens show highly realistic images, with an impressive level of detail to capture the attention of the entire audience. The resolution, “The durability and ease of installation of these systems are an ideal solution for high-level academic institutions such as the University of Sheffield.”.

As it is a building that is open continuously, one of the requirements of the visual systems was to ensure eye-catching image quality at all times. Specifically, A total of 87 flat panel Led displays model 47 inch TH-47LFV5 from Panasonic, with marco fino de 5,3 mm, operation 24/7 and anti-reflective IPS panel to disperse reflected light from the sun or other sources and reduce reflections.

With these screens, a video wall consisting of sixteen units of this model has been configured at the entrance of the building., in addition to locating other systems with digital signage functions and information points with the Panasonic LFE range, as well as for its application as a menu board in the cafeteria.

Laser/Led projection for a sustainable investment

Added to this project is the installation of a total of 77 Panasonic projectors, of which 73 correspond to the PT-RZ370 model, a system with laser/LED technology with a luminosity of 3.500 lumens and Full HD resolution with minimal maintenance requirements for your 20.000 hours of operation. Thanks to its compatibility with Digital Link, This equipment allows video transmission, audio and control signals up to one hundred meters via a single LAN cable –

“We opted for Panasonic laser projectors because of the long-term profitability they offer.”. We don't have to worry about replacing lamps. The initial cost is higher, But the maintenance needs are little or none and allow the building to keep running for longer”, points out Ian Knowles.

As this official from the University of Sheffield points out, Sustainability and long-term value were two fundamental factors when considering investment in projection systems, to which Panasonic laser/LED technology responded, thanks to its fail-safe dual-drive laser optical engine, which guarantees the light source during 20.000 hours virtually maintenance-free.

All installed projectors integrate a liquid cooling system, reducing operating noise and maximizing laser light source performance. In many amphitheaters and classrooms, several projectors have been arranged oriented in different directions to guarantee the possibility of viewing the content from all areas.; a layout that required minimal noise emission from the equipment, since in some rooms up to six units operating simultaneously in a single room.

Dual and triple projections on the building are also common.. Unlike conventional singles, These types of projections allow students and staff to take notes, in addition to projecting an image. In some laboratories, three-dimensional projections are also performed to see an object with the help of special glasses..

Another way devised by those responsible at the University of Sheffield to inspire students and bring digital content to the classroom is through Panasonic broadcast cameras, which can also be borrowed for personal and professional use with added value to learning.