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Thesis Proposal

BAE/MAE Depth Study:

Applying knowledge gained from the Computer Modeling of Building Structures course, preliminary design of the structural system will be performed using two computer programs.  First, RAM Structural System will be used to get trial member sizes for the gravity system.  The rough member sizes returned by the model output will then be standardized to eliminate excessive member sizes.  Next, the preliminary shapes will be placed into the computer program ETABS to be analyzed for lateral force resistance.  Based upon the loads retrieved from analysis, different frames will be designed by hand and compared with each other based on procedures learned in the Earthquake Resistant Design of Buildings course.  Finally, several steel connections will be designed dependent on the type of lateral system chosen, using concepts learned in the Design of Steel Connections course.

Architectural Breadth:

For this breadth, three areas of interest will be the addition of lateral braces, increase in floor thickness, and the reduction of column sizes.  Firstly, the addition of lateral braces will take up space that is currently open.  The existing structure is composed entirely of orthogonal members and the braces will hinder movement and views in the building unless they are designed appropriately.  Secondly, the increase in floor thickness will affect the floor to floor heights and will need to be handled to try and maintain the existing ceiling heights.  In preserving existing floor to ceiling heights, the mechanical systems spaces also need to be respected while remaining within local zoning limits for overall building height.  Finally, the possible reduction in column size may provide, albeit a potentially negligible amount of, extra floor space to be utilized in the building.

Constuction Management Breadth:

For this breadth, the proposed system will be analyzed and compared to the cost and schedule of the original system.  Based upon the results of Technical Report II, the proposed system will be more expensive, but the additional cost of the superstructure may be offset by potential reduction the foundation size.  Using RSMeans as a source of costing information, this will be achieved.  Additionally, the schedule impacts will be compiled in the computer program MS Project and compared between the two systems.

Click Thumbnail for PDF Version of the Report

Note: Minor word choice changes have been made to the original proposal. For a copy of the original PDF version of the report, click here.

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‐inprogress 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 Kevin Zinsmeister. 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.

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This page was last updated on 4/28/2011 by Kevin Zinsmeister and is hosted by the AE Department © 2010