Proposal

Narrative

The School of Architecture is dedicated to merging advanced research methods with real-world design practices by transforming traditional studio spaces into multifunctional research and teaching labs. Among these, the Creative AI Lab stands out as one of the first AI labs of its kind within a School of Architecture, recognized for its innovative approach to integrating AI into design education. In 2024, FAU received the "Tambellini Future Campus Award" for Innovation in AI and Technology Integration, recognizing the Creative AI Lab’s significant contributions to the field. The lab is designed to offer hands-on experience with cutting-edge technologies, serving as a “spatial instrument-to-think-with,” as described by the School of Architecture Director Joseph Choma. The Creative AI Lab is equipped with an array of advanced tools, such as a large immersive screen, 3D scanning capabilities, and high-performance computing power. This setup fosters collaboration between students and AI, enabling the seamless integration of physical models into digital environments and vice versa. By introducing ThinkReality A3 Smart Glasses augmented reality (AR) headsets into the lab, we aim to further enrich this dynamic environment, allowing students to explore virtual design concepts and visualize AI-generated solutions directly over their physical models.

Facilities

Located on the Fort Lauderdale campus, the Creative AI Lab is strategically positioned to support both educational and industry-oriented research activities. The lab is equipped with the necessary infrastructure to support AR/VR integration, providing students with a space to experiment with and learn from advanced technologies. The introduction of 30 ThinkReality A3 Smart Glasses will complement the existing facilities, offering a new dimension for ambient computing, visualizing, and manipulating 3D data within a mixed reality context.

Hardware Requirements

The request includes 30 ThinkReality A3 Smart Glasses, each valued at approximately $1439.99, amounting to a total of $43,199.70. These AR devices will enable students to immerse themselves in augmented reality experiences, where they can interact with digital models directly in their physical surroundings. This capability is especially valuable for understanding complex spatial relationships and design variations, ultimately enhancing the learning experience through interactive, real-time feedback.

Software Requirements

The AR headsets will integrate with existing software like Rhino/Grasshopper, custom tools, and other design applications already used within the lab. The school holds the necessary licenses for these tools, ensuring smooth implementation. Any additional software needed for the operation of the Smart Glasses devices will be acquired and maintained by the school, ensuring that students have access to the latest features and capabilities.

Personnel Costs

The implementation of the new AR equipment will be managed by the lab’s current faculty, who will conduct training sessions for students. This ensures that no additional personnel costs are required, as the faculty is already equipped to guide students in the effective use of the new technology.

Other Costs

No other costs are expected beyond those associated with the hardware and software. Any minor modifications to the lab’s space to accommodate the new AR equipment will be funded by the School of Architecture, ensuring that the setup remains conducive to both teaching and research activities.

Timeline

• December 2024: Approval of the Tech Fee proposal. • January 2025: Procurement of ThinkReality A3 Smart Glasses • February 2025:Setup In the CreativeAILab and Faculty training, followed by student orientation sessions. • March 2025: Integration into the curriculum for design courses, enabling students to begin using the headsets for hands-on AR experiences.

Sustainability

The investment in ThinkReality A3 Smart Glasses is part of a long-term strategy to integrate generative AI, ambient computing, and immersive technologies into the School of Architecture’s curriculum. As one of the first schools to fully integrate advanced AI education into its professional program, the School has adapted its curriculum to equip students with the skills to design with AI and foster a mindset of continuous innovation. These devices will remain a valuable resource for future courses and research projects, facilitating ongoing exploration of AI and mixed reality in architecture, with approximately 300 students across 9 courses being impacted. The lab’s flexibility ensures that it can adapt to new developments in AR/VR, maintaining its relevance as a hub for innovation in design education.

Resource Matching

The School of Architecture is committed to matching the support provided through this Tech Fee by dedicating faculty expertise, ongoing maintenance, and course integration efforts. Additionally, the school continues to seek industry partnerships to further enhance the lab’s offerings and to develop new research opportunities for students.

Implementing Organization

The implementation of the new AR equipment will be managed by the lab’s current faculty. The lab faculty will support the integration of the AR equipment with the lab’s existing digital infrastructure, ensuring that the transition is seamless and that students can begin using the technology quickly. Faculty within the Creative AI Lab will lead training and workshops, guiding students in the effective use of ThinkReality A3 Smart Glasses for both coursework and research initiatives.