Thesis Proposal

This thesis proposal defines the areas of investigation to be completed through later research and analysis of building systems and construction processes.

Initial posting (Dec. 12 2008)
Thesis Proposal (pdf format)

Revised posting (Jan. 20 2009)
Thesis Proposal (pdf format)

Breadth Study Topics

Stemming from my Analysis on the building's exterior facade these three studies on the new alternative exterior facade system will demonstrate breadth throughout other option areas in architectural engineering.

Exterior Façade Structural Support
The new exterior façade system may require different support than the existing brick veneer system. Depending on how the new system ties into the structure, the addition or reduction of weight could result in a reassessment and redesign of the structural system. The costs, schedule impact, and constructability of the resulting structural design will be included to fully analyze the ramification of changing the exterior façade system.

Exterior Façade Acoustics
The new exterior façade system may change the acoustics of the building in a negative or positive way. The resulting acoustical qualities will be analyzed and compared to the existing enclosure system as well as the industry standards for health care facilities. In the event the acoustics improve, it is seen as an addition to the value engineering of the building. In the event the acoustics worsen, additional research and analysis on the methods to then restore the acoustics, to at least the level of the existing enclosure system, will be conducted. The costs associated with the additional acoustics will be included to further compare the systems.

Exterior Façade Energy Analysis
The new exterior façade system can have an impact on the thermal qualities of the building. An energy analysis on the building enclosure on both the new and existing systems will indicate the need for changes in the mechanical system. The cost of such changes will be compared and included in the comparison of the exterior façade types.

MAE study topics

Two major construction areas I will focus on is owner knowledge and assistance as well as lean construction phase planning and preconstruction planning. The information for these research areas will stem from 500 level construction management courses and industry research via interviews and questionaires.