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Before the opening of the Singapore Technology Centre this year, Dyson was based at a 3,000m² site at Alexandra Technopark. Led by Scott Maguire, VP for engineering and operations at Dyson, the new centre focuses on developing new technologies for the future, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, robotics, fluid dynamics and vision systems.
The firm has created 50% more space and new laboratory facilities dedicated to developing its core technologies and new categories that underpin its growing technology portfolio.
Housing more than 1,100 people in Singapore, a third of whom are engineers and scientists, the staff work across two key sites, namely the Singapore Technology Centre and the Singapore Advanced Manufacturing facility, where state-of-the-art Dyson digital motors are made.
Speaking to Human Resources’ Wani Azahar, Maguire takes us on a tour inside Dyson’s Singapore Technology Centre.
What are some of the key features of this centre?
The Singapore Technology Centre holds some state-of-the art research, design and development laboratories that support our global ambitions in the realm of artificial intelligence, machine learning, robotics, fluid dynamics, vision systems, software and connectivity.
These labs are a reflection of the various key engineering disciplines that enable our high-performing technologies. For example, a semi-anechoic chamber allows our engineers to improve the acoustic quality of our machines. Some $20 million has been invested in these facilities over the past 10 years.
The fluid dynamics lab is dedicated to the study and development of airflow across our portfolio of technologies. It contains stations that enable our engineers to fine-tune and optimise the flow of air through the different components of our machines.
The connected studio is where our engineers get hands-on with our connected machines. Robotics, navigation and vision systems, machine-to-machine communication – these exciting fields in technology are developed and tested here.
Meanwhile, the control tower at the centre displays real-time supply chain and logistics data to respond to events as they happen and to mitigate risks in the supply chain.
How have these spaces helped in creativity and/or productivity?
At Dyson we have a culture of celebrating design icons – design and engineering marvels in history that made a difference. In our Malmesbury headquarters, a Lightning jet fighter hangs on the ceiling of the campus’ Lightning Café.
In the Singapore Technology Centre, we have a classic Mini – a brilliant example of wrong thinking. Its creator, Sir Alec Issigonis adopted the clever approach of mounting the engine transversely in the car, which made possible a car that had both a small footprint and a relatively spacious interior. Icons such as these serve to inspire our young engineers, of whom the average age is just 26.
Where do you think the staff’s favourite space is, and why?
The breakout area. While it functions as a lunch spot, it more importantly serves as a shared space for Dyson’s engineers of different engineering disciplines to collaborate on various technology projects. There, great ideas are exchanged and discussed. The café in it also serves some great coffee.
Photos / Provided
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