Simulation Facility Design 101: The Basics

This chapter intends to reveal issues that explain what a particular simulation center should look like. However, one floor plan that does meet most of one program's needs is offered as an example. The design of each center is unique but certain guiding principles around function, structure, and need are common in most instances. The topics that are covered here include: the center design team; function, flow, and utilization; and simulation type. A flow chart is presented that provides a graphical representation of the iterative process, that is, creation of a simulation program and its supporting facilities. The team that designs a facility should include an architect, the customer, the project manager, the contractor, AV and IT professionals, a simulation facility design consultant, and select faculty who will use the facility. The criterion of what makes a simulation design consultant skilled needs to be further matured and standardized. Some qualities include: prior simulation experience, prior simulation facility construction experience, and good spatial skills and qualities. The type of simulation to be done has a heavy influence on the design of a facility. The concepts for a VR training room versus a computer-based area versus a high-fidelity mannequin-based area are all different and unique. Having determined what programs will exist in a defined space, the design team can move to flow and volume.