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| 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 Brian Tufts. 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. |
Thesis Proposal
DOWNLOAD THESIS PROPOSAL (PDF)
DOWNLOAD THESIS PROPOSAL EXECUTIVE SUMMARY AND BREADTH (PDF)
This thesis proposes to switch the floor system from a steel composite system to a system supported by open web steel joists, thus reducing the weight of the system which will translate into lower cost and decreased member sizes throughout the framing. Using finite element programs such as ETABS and RAM, a model will be created of the new system to determine whether or not the alternative floor system will be best choice.
To achieve a LEED rating of at least Bronze, breadth study investigations will be performed into the mechanical system as designed to evaluate the energy efficiency of the proposed design and a second breadth investigation into architectural materials, specifically the utilization of renewable materials for both energy efficiency and conservation.
The first breadth study will focus on the energy efficiency of the current mechanical system. Often, costs are saved during construction by installing standard mechanical system without consideration of future operating costs of the building. Equipment efficiencies will be analyzed and compared to alternative equipment as well as alternative system types. Projected energy savings calculations will be performed to conform to USGBC The New Construction and Major Renovation Reference Guide v2.2 – Second Edition September 2006.
The second breadth study will involve research into specific architectural methods for capturing renewable energy and using it for building functions as well as renewable architectural materials that are viable alternatives in the interior of the building. Time will be spent researching readily available renewable
materials in the New England area. Additionally, research into renewable energy sources will be
performed to cut down on grid energy consumption and increase the point total towards a LEED
rating.
DOWNLOAD REVISED THESIS PROPOSAL (1/22/08) (PDF)