Researchers from Aalborg University will have access to one of the world’s most advanced test laboratories for measuring wireless signals from mobile phones, satellites and drones.

The unique 5,000 sqm laboratory, which is currently being built at the NOVI Science Park in Aalborg, will further strengthen the university’s leading position in mobile phone technology.

The antenna building will have a 140 sqm roof that can be pushed all the way to the side and a 154 sqm wall that can be lowered to allow a complete opening to the outside – a vital feature for uninterrupted quality measurements of wireless technology.

However, constructing such an unusual building is a challenge as the movable parts of the building must be able to quickly roll back into place to protect expensive laboratory equipment in case of rain.

Partnering up with Intel
“The building is technically very challenging, but we wanted to create an even better framework for the partnership between Intel and Aalborg University,” said Jesper Jespersen, the administrative director of NOVI Science Park.

“Antenna research is already one of the university’s areas of expertise, and the laboratory creates the conditions for a host of subcontractors and new students in the city. So it wasn’t difficult for us to say yes to the project.”

The university will share the new building with Intel Mobile Communications Denmark, which focuses on the research and development of high-end products and solutions for wireless communications and already has some 250 engineers in the town.

The excavation work has already begun. Intel is expected to move into the new laboratories already in spring 2016, while researchers from Aalborg University will have to wait until the autumn.