Grant: Applied Research and Development Grants - Level 1

Wildernest Systems Inc. and the College of New Caledonia are collaborating on an applied research project to design and construct a prototype ""Grid Matrix"" building structural system that will introduce an innovative gridshell building to the Canadian construction industry. The Grid Matrix system is a modular yet customizable pre-engineered building system that can be assembled quickly and inexpensively with relatively few resources. The system is designed to incorporate advanced building concepts including energy efficiency, fire resistance, reduced material waste and enhanced comfort. Wildernest Systems is based out of Smithers, British Columbia, and is currently involved in extensive materials and engineering research and development to develop and commercialize their building system. As part of their research and development program, Wildernest Systems will collaborate with the College of New Caledonia to design, produce and test the metal connectors systems that form the grid matrix building shell. College students involved in this project will develop enhanced skillsets in prototype design, testing and evaluation, and will learn about innovative engineering approaches in the Canadian construction industry.