at cranberry woods; cranberry township, PA
lll caitlin hanzel l mechanical option l a e senior thesis lll

 
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 User 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 Caitlin Hanzel. Changes and discrepancies in no way imply that the original design contained errors of 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.
 
 


 
 

Proposal

 

Thesis Proposal

Thesis Breadth Topics

Updated Breadth Topics and Calendar

Updated Thesis Proposal

Updated Progress Schedule

This thesis proposal explores The Regional Learning Alliance's current mechanical system and analyzes possible resdesign solutions to improve occupancy thermal comfort, energy consumption and the acoustical issues that have been occuring with the present fan coil units. The primary redesign will include chilled beams, used in conjunction with the dedicated outdoor air system. Displacement Ventilation, and the possible use of radiant flooring will be used in the main lobby/atrium.

Breadth 1: ACOUSTICS

The driving decision to switch from fan coil units to chilled beams was the reduction in acoustical interference in the space. The acoustical performance of the parallel system will be analyzed to make sure they meet noise criteria standards for classrooms and offices. Calculations will be performed to compare the systems and new reverberation times will also be measured.

Breadth 2: CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT

One if the most appealing qualities about chilled beams is their ability to bring together several serves in an integrated unit. This breadth would explore the potential savings on the construction costs and installation schedule by integrating fire protection and/or lighting into the beams.

If for any reason difficulties arise with obtaining sufficient acoustical information on the current system, a solar/electrical breadth will be performed in its place.

SOLAR/ELECTRICAL

As per owner request, the possible implementation of photovoltaic panels to handle part of the facility's lighting load will be analyzed. The possible solar radiation accumulation and corresponding annual electricity savings will be calculated in order to produce a potential payback period for the system.

 


 

 
     


 
 
 
     

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This page was last updated on 9/3/08 by Caitlin Hanzel and is hosted by the AE Department 2008