The DIZ, the only one of its kind in the world, is developed in partnership with Siemens and is run by an undergraduate team. The zone is a ‘living lab’ where students can learn to use cutting-edge technologies, from edge computing to digital twin simulation, and apply it to their studies.
The DIZ will include a digital twin of the University’s Diamond Pilot Plant – a world leading continuous powder processing facility that is the first of its kind in any UK university – which will give students the chance to learn how to run and maintain a real industrial plant virtually. With its move to Heartspace, it is anticipated that the DIZ’s impact will be further amplified.
The Mappin Building's Heartspace offers an ideal environment for the DIZ as the move provides easy access to state-of-the-art equipment and facilities, drawing on the expertise and resources available at the University of Sheffield. Siemens engineers and twenty nine student Digital Advisors will provide hands-on, trained expertise supporting the current and the new engineering cohort coming to Sheffield in September 2024
Dave Moss, Head of Siemens Digital Innovation, expressed his excitement about the relocation, stating, "The move to Heartspace in the Mappin Building is a landmark moment that will propel the university’s digital innovation efforts to new heights. We are thrilled to have access to such a dynamic space that will enable us to continue fostering creativity and collaboration whilst upskilling the university’s remarkable engineering students."
Flora Hippisley Cox, a final-year Mechanical Engineering student and a Siemens intern, expressed her enthusiasm about the move, stating, "The relocation of the DIZ to Heartspace is fantastic news. It means we can work on our projects in a truly collaborative environment, surrounded by the latest technologies. Working with such cutting-edge technology presents an amazing opportunity for us students to gain hands-on experience in an industry where practical experience is so key. I can't wait to see what we can achieve in this inspiring new space."
As the world becomes increasingly digital, the Digital Innovation Zone promises to play a pivotal role in shaping the digital landscape for future generations of engineering students at the University of Sheffield.
