Portland airport welcomes travelers with the sound of Renkus-Heinz

Integrated into innovative technological poles, Iconyx Compact speakers Renkus-Heinz provide clarity, precision and flexibility to the modern Portland terminal.

He Portland International Airport (PXD) has long been recognized for its integration of local culture, sustainability and innovation. The latest modernization project, integrated into the initiative PDX Next, reinvents the airport experience, combining cutting-edge technology with striking architectural design. A central element of this transformation is the installation of the altavoces Iconyx Compact ICC12/3 de Renkus-Heinz, that offer great audio clarity and integrate with the airport aesthetic.

The PDX Next initiative is a comprehensive, multi-phase project to expand and modernize the airport. The renovation of the main terminal is the central axis of this vision. Designed with an emphasis on openness and natural elements, the new terminal has high wooden ceilings, lots of natural light and locally sourced materials, thus reflecting the Oregon philosophy of enjoying nature.

However, open concept design presented significant challenges for audio installation. No conventional walls or ceilings to house traditional sound systems, the team had to think outside the box to meet the airport's strict requirements for coverage, clarity and aesthetic integration.

PAE, company involved in the project since 2013, has collaborated with global engineering consultancy Arup to address these challenges, selecting the Iconyx Compact Series ICC12/3 speakers from Renkus-Heinz as the ideal solution to offer optimal audio performance.

“The biggest challenge was the lack of walls or ceilings to install the equipment”, explains Ryan Deep, PAE senior associate. “The open design of the terminal was intended to imitate the exterior, without traditional infrastructure to hide the speakers. This forced us to develop an innovative solution: “integrated technology poles”.

Los integrated technology poles, custom designed for this initiative, They are modular structures that house multiple technologies. Plus Renkus-Heinz speakers, The posts incorporate coverage of fire alarm, cameras, lighting and WiFi access points. Each post is made from 100% metal and designed to rotate for precise alignment.

“Each access point and coverage area was modeled during the design phase to ensure seamless installation on site”, Lalum points out. Prefabricated off site, The poles were delivered fully assembled, allowing for efficient installation with minimal disruption.

“Modular design not only meets current needs, but also offers flexibility for future expansions or reconfigurations”, adds Lalum.

The decision to use Renkus-Heinz Iconyx Compact speakers was based on the brand's reputation for reliability, Advanced beam steering technology and audio quality.

“The sets of beam steering of Renkus-Heinz provided the broad coverage patterns and precise dispersion we needed”, said Lalum. “This allowed us to direct the sound precisely where it was required, minimizing interference and guaranteeing intelligibility”.

Iconyx Compact ICC12/3 loudspeakers were chosen for their advanced capabilities, including beam steering technology, ensuring precise sound dispersion for clear, focused audio in passenger flow areas, while minimizing spread to operational areas.

Its Dante connectivity simplifies integration with the airport's digital infrastructure, enabling individually addressable speakers and optimized maintenance. Besides, Its compact and narrow design allows for seamless installation within integrated technology posts, maintaining the aesthetics of the terminal.

The system provides one hundred percent coverage throughout the terminal, Delivering clear, intelligible audio for public address announcements, signage and general communications.

The Tcore project required a high level of collaboration between stakeholders. “Renkus-Heinz played a key role in the success of the project”, emphasizes Lalum. “From supplying demo units and Ease files to supporting design and commissioning, Your team was responsive and collaborative.. The same can be said for Arup, the contractor, and the Portland airport”.

PDX modernization is far from complete. More integrated technology poles and Renkus-Heinz speakers will be installed as the project progresses, which will guarantee a smooth audio coverage throughout the terminal. Meanwhile, the new airport design, including its wooden roof, built off-site and installed with high-powered equipment, continues to attract attention for its architectural ingenuity.

“The integrated technology poles perfectly embody the project philosophy”, concludes Lalum. “They are innovative, functional and have an elegant design, just like the terminal itself. And Renkus-Heinz speakers are a vital part of that success”.

Transformation of Portland International Airport Demonstrates the Power of Innovation and Collaboration. By combining the audio technology advanced Renkus-Heinz with meticulous design and engineering, the project team has created a terminal that is as functional as it is attractive. With its perfect integration of technology and architecture, PDX sets a new standard for airport experience.