2008 Woodie Awards
Davidson Labs renovations improve facilities
Bruce Jordan
Issue date: 1/26/07 Section: Campus News
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If you have ever walked down Hudson Street between Eighth and Seventh Street, you have probably wondered what could possibly be occurring in Davidson Laboratories. What sort of research takes place within these walls? What secrets does this building hold? Why was it under construction? And most importantly, how can one get involved?
Dr. Michael Bruno, Director of Davidson Labs, was more than happy to answer all of these questions. Sitting across from him, I was easily infected by the excitement that he exuded while discussing the Labs. Listening to him talk about the Labs felt more like listening to a parent discuss the latest accomplishments of their child than just a simple research facility. What's more, is that Dr. Bruno had very good reason to be proud, with all the research projects, renovations and historical events occurring at the Davidson Labs.
Davidson Labs just underwent a massive renovation project where its high-speed towing tank was modernized and increased in size. The tank's cross section was increased by 50%, from 12 feet by 6 feet to 16 feet by 8 feet. Furthermore, the high-speed carriage for the towing of models was repositioned so as to make the facility even safer. The old placement caused a slight danger to operators and observers alike, while the new placement eliminates nearly all risk. In addition, the whole facility is better lit and far more welcoming than the previous set up. According to Dr. Bruno, "This is the most modern facility of its type in the nation, if not the world."
These changes were funded entirely by the US Navy. This is consistent with the history of Davidson Labs, which have always been closely linked to the Navy. Also consistent with the Labs' history is one of the main driving forces for the updates and renovations to the towing tank; there is groundbreaking research being performed involving sail boats for the Volvo Ocean Race. In addition to this research, the Labs' is also one of the key players the Team Oracle, the only US Syndicate in the America's Cup, this year.
Dr. Michael Bruno, Director of Davidson Labs, was more than happy to answer all of these questions. Sitting across from him, I was easily infected by the excitement that he exuded while discussing the Labs. Listening to him talk about the Labs felt more like listening to a parent discuss the latest accomplishments of their child than just a simple research facility. What's more, is that Dr. Bruno had very good reason to be proud, with all the research projects, renovations and historical events occurring at the Davidson Labs.
Davidson Labs just underwent a massive renovation project where its high-speed towing tank was modernized and increased in size. The tank's cross section was increased by 50%, from 12 feet by 6 feet to 16 feet by 8 feet. Furthermore, the high-speed carriage for the towing of models was repositioned so as to make the facility even safer. The old placement caused a slight danger to operators and observers alike, while the new placement eliminates nearly all risk. In addition, the whole facility is better lit and far more welcoming than the previous set up. According to Dr. Bruno, "This is the most modern facility of its type in the nation, if not the world."
These changes were funded entirely by the US Navy. This is consistent with the history of Davidson Labs, which have always been closely linked to the Navy. Also consistent with the Labs' history is one of the main driving forces for the updates and renovations to the towing tank; there is groundbreaking research being performed involving sail boats for the Volvo Ocean Race. In addition to this research, the Labs' is also one of the key players the Team Oracle, the only US Syndicate in the America's Cup, this year.
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