Thesis Proposal

The following proposal details the work to be completed in the Spring of 2009. It presents a description of the redesign of several systems present in the National Intrepid Center of Excellence (NICoE). Included are explanations of two
depth and two breadth topics. This document does not conclude that there are actual problems with the
existing systems, it is just meant to provide an approach to alternate solutions.

 

Depth Analysis: Lighting

The lighting analysis for NICoE will focus on the following four spaces: exterior facade, lobby, auditorium, and physical therapy/occupational therapy space. As a facility for military veterans, the main goal within the building is to make the occupants feel comfortable and calm within the healing environment.  By utilizing the concept of the qualities of a soldier, the space would exhibit the appreciation of these patients.  Each of the selected spaces should portray one of the following qualities: unity, leadership, focus, and strength.  The unique building shape and architectural features will also be emphasized by the lighting design. 

 

Depth Analysis: Electrical

The electrical depth includes a redesign of the branch circuit distribution for the four spaces to be re-lighted.  A protective device coordination study and short circuit analysis will also be conducted.  A voltage drop analysis will lead to a comparative cost study of increasing feeder sizes to save energy and money.  SKM software will then be used to perform a short circuit analysis, protective device coordination, and arc fault study for the distribution system.

 

Breadth Analysis: Architectural

In order to accommodate for a lighting design that is both functional and visually pleasing, the ceiling details in the auditorium will be slightly modified.  The materials, shape, and location of the existing wood panels will be altered, and additional paneling will be placed.  This will make the space more architecturally pleasing and create a more efficient lighting design. 

 

Breadth Analysis: Mechanical

In the therapy waiting area on the second floor, the elimination of the east-facing clerestory will greatly affect the total cooling load necessary in the space.  A comparative study will be completed to determine the difference in energy load between the glass and a standard wall system.  Additional cooling load contributors within the space will also be calculated.    

 

M.A.E. Focus: Daylighting

Dimming photosensors will be used to control a large portion of the fixtures in the lobby and OT/PT space.  However, the proper type of photosensor – open or closed loop – is unknown.  A daylight study and analysis will be conducted to make this determination.

 

 

Full Thesis Proposal - PDF

Full Thesis Proposal - Updated 1/14/2009 - PDF

Full Thesis Proposal - Updated 1/30/2009 - PDF

Breadth Proposal - PDF

Breadth Proposal - Updated 1/30/2009 - PDF

 

 

 

 

Senior Thesis Main Page Penn State Architectural Engineering AE Computer Labs Contact Christine: cmc5004@psu.edu
This page was last updated on January 30, 2009, by Christine Clowes and is hosted by the AE Department © 2008
Note: While great efforts have been taken to provide accurate and complete information on the pages of CPEP, please be aware that the information contained herewith is considered a work‐in‐progress for this thesis project. Modifications and changes related to the original building designs and construction methodologies for this senior thesis project are solely the interpretation of Christine Clowes. Changes and discrepancies in no way imply that the original design contained errors or was flawed. Differing assumptions, code references, requirements, and methodologies have been incorporated into this thesis project; therefore, investigation results may vary from the original design.