Johnson Controls has devised an interactive teaching environment equipped with building management systems (BMS) called ‘The Box’ for the Sir Charles Kao University Technical College (UTC) in Harlow.

This project fits the philosophy behind the establishment of the UTCs by the British government. It provides students with technical education that prepares them for the future by providing them with the skills and experience required by the industry.

Jonathan Williams, technology and integration sales manager at Johnson Controls Building Efficiency UK, said:“The Box brings added value to students’ experiences with innovative technologies that are becoming more and more relevant. Energy efficiency and sustainability are increasingly part of our everyday life and working environment.

“Employers are constantly struggling to find candidates with emerging technologies or manufacturing skills. The Box will help these students prepare for future job opportunities.”

Principal Michael McKeaveney said: “The installation of ‘The Box’ will enhance the innovative learning experience we offer students, and I am delighted with the result. The Box exemplifies the employer-led, current and pioneering approach to education we deliver.“

He continued: “I’m delighted to be working with the high calibre sponsors that we have here at the UTC. Johnson Controls will provide a top rate experience to ensure all our young people understand the sophisticated systems involved with what Johnson Controls do that will allow our students to develop their employability skills.”

Johnson Controls designed, supplied, installed and delivered the Metasys Building Management System for the project. Integrated in a normal classroom setting, ‘The Box’ measures temperature, light and humidity and has been configured with two spaces: a teaching space and a plant/maintenance space.

Johnson Controls equipped the rooms with a Metasys Building Management System, air handling equipment and environmental controls devices. These are all connected via a new ICT architecture providing live interaction with the environment. Students will be able to program a Building Management system, measure air temperatures and humidity, calculate energy consumption, automatically control lights, control systems remotely over Wi-Fi via tablets or their own smartphones. The possibilities are numerous.

Pictured above is Jonathan Williams pointing out the air handling unit to Dave Dorney, general manager for Johnson Controls Building Efficiency UK&I.