AV Solutions Powering Engineering Stories at the Science Museum
Project:
The Client
The Science Museum in South Kensington, London, is a globally renowned institution committed to sparking a passion for science. It features an extensive collection of scientific artifacts and pioneering interactive exhibits that draw millions of visitors annually. As part of the Science Museum Group, it aims to engage individuals of all ages with the marvels of science and engineering.
Tracing its origins to the Great Exhibition of 1851, the Science Museum has led the way in interactive science interpretation for over eighty years. It tells the stories of innovations and individuals who have shaped our world and are transforming the future. The museum continually reinterprets its diverse collection of 7.3 million items covering science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine. Its mission is to inspire futures by igniting curiosity among people of all ages and backgrounds.
The Project
Via the LUPC framework, we were contracted to supply advanced audio-visual hardware for the new Engineers gallery at the Science Museum. This major new addition focuses on the significant impact of engineers and their work in the modern world, featuring interactive exhibits that aim to inspire visitors with the stories of engineering achievements.
The Engineers gallery places human stories at its core, aiming to inspire young people to pursue engineering careers by challenging common misconceptions about what engineers do. It offers a fresh perspective on the breadth and diversity of engineering roles. The gallery boasts over 70 remarkable objects, including the cutting-edge CMR ‘Versius’ surgical robot arm, the world’s first digital colour camera, a miniature atomic clock essential for GPS system functionality, and a OneWeb communications satellite suspended from the ceiling.
Marking the 10th anniversary of the Queen Elizabeth Prize for Engineering (QEPrize), the gallery showcases previous winners of the prize alongside some of the most exciting engineering innovations of recent years. The opening of the Engineers gallery is part of a decade-long transformation of the Science Museum’s public spaces, joining other award-winning permanent galleries and located adjacent to Technicians: The David Sainsbury Gallery, which opened in November 2022.
Key Features
- Advanced Audio-Visual Integration: High-definition displays, interactive touchscreens, and robust media players enhance visitor engagement and provide seamless multimedia experiences.
- Accessibility and Inclusivity: Integrated induction handsets, loop amplifiers, and specialised audio equipment ensure that the exhibits are accessible and inclusive for visitors with hearing impairments.
- Innovative Exhibit Presentation: The cutting-edge AV hardware supports the showcasing of pioneering engineering achievements, creating an immersive and educational environment that aligns with the Science Museum's mission.
The Solution
Roche Audio Visual provided an array of cutting-edge hardware components to create an immersive and interactive experience in the Engineers gallery. This included high-definition Samsung commercial displays for showcasing engineering marvels and Iiyama 22” touchscreen displays for interactive exhibits. BrightSign Media players enabled smooth playback of content utilising powerful Mac Minis for multimedia content management. Additional accessibility features, such as specialist Molitor induction handsets and loop amplifiers, were integrated to enhance the experience for visitors with hearing impairments.
The sound system comprised powerful Audica Micropoint loudspeakers, ensuring clear and immersive audio throughout the gallery as well as high-quality Samson headphone amplifiers to facilitate personal listening experiences.
Partners
The Result
The integration of advanced audio-visual hardware by Roche Audio Visual significantly enhanced the visitor experience in the Engineers gallery. High-definition displays and interactive touchscreens provide engaging ways to explore engineering concepts, while robust media players and powerful Mac Minis work in the background to ensure seamless operation of multimedia content. Accessibility features, such as induction handsets and loop amplifiers, ensure inclusivity for all visitors. This comprehensive AV solution has made the Engineers gallery a captivating and educational destination, aligning with the Science Museum’s mission to inspire and educate through innovative exhibits.
"Through the engaging objects, exhibits and stories in the Engineers gallery, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the vital role engineers play in shaping the world around us. The technology supplied by Roche Audio Visual has enabled us to tell significant engineering stories in an engaging and accessible way."
