University of Rhode Island

Ocean Robotics Laboratory

Narragansett, Rhode Island

Size
27,200 gsf

Services
Programming, Architectural Design, Construction Administration

The 27,200 gsf Ocean Robotics Laboratory (ORL) represents a new initiative to provide space for the advancing field of aquatic robotics to be shared by the University of Rhode Island’s (URI) Graduate School of Oceanography (GSO) and the Department of Ocean Engineering (OE). The facility’s primary goal is to promote collaboration between the GSO and OE in a flexible modern research facility. The testing tank, high bay staging area, and adjacent service yard research labs and shop space are essential features of the design.

The high bay houses a 20’ wide x 30’ long x 15’ deep research tank with a rail-guided movable access platform, bridge, and jib cranes. Adjacent to the high bay are R&D labs with direct access to outdoor work areas and/or the high bay, a machine shop, and clean shop. The upper level includes additional research labs, faculty offices, conference/collaboration space, and graduate student write-up rooms.

Upper level

Lower level

This state-of-the-art facility also serves as a gateway building to the campus that frames a commanding view of Narragansett bay from its elevated location.