A 270-degree Data Observatory, designed and delivered by AVI-SPL, is helping the Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) showcase groundbreaking research on a global stage.
When Dubai’s MBZUAI set out to create a facility that would elevate the visibility of its AI research, the university turned to immersive technology. The ambition was clear: deliver an environment capable of real-time visualisation of complex AI models, while also supporting future initiatives such as motion capture, teleportation between videowalls and avatar research. Central to this vision was the installation of a bespoke 270-degree video wall, a technical achievement that demanded custom engineering, rapid delivery and flawless integration.
A new standard for research visualisation
The heart of MBZUAI’s new Data Observatory is a curved videowall that AVI-SPL assembled from Absen PL2.5 Pro V10 LED panels, covering a 7m diameter space. Achieving a seamless 270-degree arc required custom hardware. AVI-SPL calculated that achieving the correct curvature would require each panel to connect at 10-degree intervals. Absen responded by developing a specialised locking system to allow precisely articulation at each joint.
To support the visual experience AVI-SPL built a high-performance custom PC around the latest RTX 6000 ADA GPUs. This powerhouse setup was critical for handling sophisticated, real-time AI content generated in-house by MBZUAI’s researchers, ensuring that intricate simulations and models could be displayed without lag or compromise.
Behind the scenes, technology from Analog Way, Extron, Grass Valley, Legrand, and QSC integrates the system, ensuring robust control, switching, and audio performance to complement the visual experience.
Facing technical and logistical challenges
Delivering such a complex installation under normal conditions would be demanding; doing so under a two-month deadline - in time for the global COP28 conference - raised the stakes considerably.
Standard lead times for professional-grade LED panels typically exceed 45 to 60 days, but AVI-SPL’s close relationship with Absen enabled an accelerated delivery. This speed was critical, giving enough time to complete custom rigging, mount the structure, and configure the system before high-profile visitors arrived.
Beyond the time pressure, the team had to navigate spatial constraints. The Observatory’s installation space required meticulous planning to maintain uniform curvature and ensure the entire structure could withstand the demands of constant, high-resolution performance.
AVI-SPL’s local and international Experience Technology Group (XTG) teams collaborated closely with MBZUAI, fine-tuning the integration to ensure real-time content could be displayed seamlessly. The integrator also provided hands-on training, equipping MBZUAI staff with the skills needed to operate and maximize the Observatory’s potential.
Delivering impact at COP28 and beyond
At the COP28 conference, the Observatory became a centrepiece for MBZUAI’s engagement with global leaders and decision-makers. The 270-degree environment enabled the university to present its AI models and simulations dynamically and in real time, showcasing practical applications and reinforcing its position at the forefront of AI research.
Beyond its immediate use for events, the installation supports MBZUAI’s longer-term research goals. It serves as a platform for advanced data visualisation, human avatar studies, relighting projects and upcoming motion capture initiatives.
Ariana Bermudez, project manager of the Metaverse Center at MBZUAI, reflected on the achievement: “The installation of the 270-degree video wall at our university represents a significant technical milestone, enabling the creation of immersive environments for real-time AI research.
“This advanced setup enhances interactive experiences for both researchers and visitors, and plays a crucial role in our data acquisition efforts related to human avatars, relighting, and future motion capture initiatives. Collaborating with AVI-SPL has been a positive experience; their team’s expertise in managing complex technical projects ensured the installation was completed efficiently within the tight project deadline.”
A showcase of future-ready AV
The MBZUAI Data Observatory is more than a striking visual installation, it’s a working example of how AV technology can push the boundaries of research visualisation. It highlights the critical role of AV integrators in shaping environments where complex, data-driven research can be explored, shared and advanced.
By overcoming demanding technical and logistical challenges, and delivering a fully operational, cutting-edge facility under intense time constraints, the project sets a new benchmark for innovation in education and research spaces.