The work done during the Fall Semester was to identify a problem that could be resolved in the Spring Semester. The Thesis Proposal states the problem and provides a solution. Solution methods and tasks are given within the proposal to show how the solution will be completed. A schedule detailing these tasks is also given to show how the proposed solution will be accomplished.



To view the proposal, click the thumbnails near the bottom of the page.



As a note, the previous technical reports show that the structure of Global Village is adequate and is code-compliant.

The proposed solution is to modify the dual steel-wood structural system and convert it into a reinforced concrete system. A lateral system comprising of moment connections in both directions will also be designed in place of the braced frames and wood shear walls used in the existing building. By using a uniform structural material, the additional firms and contractors that are needed in the design and construction of the dual system can be excluded. This improves communication throughout the project team and time along with money may be saved which are very important for university buildings.

A construction management breadth will be completed to test the constructability of re-design. A study will be done as to why most university buildings are made of concrete and/or masonry. Information on the use of the steel-wood system used in Global Village will also be sought after to compare the existing building to the proposed building. This includes general reality checks and examines any improvements in construction methods, safety, or use of recycled materials. A reduction of field labor will also be researched for the proposed building.

An architecture breadth will consider the changes in architecture that arise due to the concrete system. Since wood provides a more flexible floor plan through the use of load bearing walls, column placements will need to be considered. This may drastically affect the floor plan and architecture of the space. Therefore, some spaces may need to be redesigned to incorporate columns into the existing theme of the space.



If the above breadth is insufficient, a sustainability breadth will be used. To maintain the LEED Gold status, a study will be done to analyze the change in LEED points that may occur as a result of the proposed concrete building conversion. If needed, other sustainability options will be explored and employed to the proposed building. A possible option would be the use of photovoltaics. Solar data will be researched along with an evaluation of the use of solar panels. The evaluation will consider system cost, running costs, savings per year, payback period, and number of additional LEED points gained.

Thesis Proposals:

To view Thesis Proposal (PDF Format), please click thumbnails to the left.



Major revisions were made to the structural depth along with minor revisions and clarifications to the construction management and architecture breadths. A sustainability breadth was also added as an alternative in case the architecture breadth failed to meet work-load expectations.

Revised: 1/13/2012
Original: 12/12/2011