Depth Topics:

       After doing extensive research, it appears that the New Inpatient Tower at the Butler Memorial Hospital is a prime candidate for a dedicated outdoor air system.  In order to supplement the dedicated outdoor air system, examining the use of chilled beam technology will be analyzed.  The chilled beam technology will only be responsible for sensible loads created within the space.  Two different options of chilled beams will be investigated; either an active chilled beam system or a passive chilled beam system.   
       In order to saving additional energy with the dedicated outdoor air system, energy recovery and water-side free cooling will also be implemented.  Two different options for energy recovery from exhaust air are a runaround glycol loop or a total heat recovery wheel.  Both systems have pros and cons which will be analyzed further.  Water-side free cooling will utilize the cooling tower to alleviate some of the burden imposed on the chillers during temperate seasons.

Breadth Topics:

      An electrical breadth topic will be investigated to determine the impact of the new mechanical system on electrical distribution.  Because some of the equipment will be downsized or eliminated and other equipment added, a new inspection of the power distribution will need to be analyzed.  Over current protection, feeder sizes, and feasibility issues will need to be examined and resolved.  A revised single line diagram will be laid out to aid in the conceptual schematic of the new design.

      A structural breadth will also be scrutinized to determine the effects of the mechanical re-design on the structural support system.  The (3) main rooftop air handlers will be greatly reduced in size, and perhaps even eliminated in some cases.  Due to the reduced load on the roof, an analysis of the structural system will be performed to resize roofing members and distinguish any cost savings that may be a result of the re-design. 

MAE Incorporation:

      Throughout the final report, a number of references will be made to items pertaining to the MAE curriculum.  Calculating lifecycle costs and payback periods will be performed, which is a direct correlation to the material learned AE 558 Central Heating.  Water-side free cooling is a topic discussed in AE 557 Central Cooling and will be an integral part of the final thesis presentation.  Lastly, the improvements in indoor air quality as a result of the DOAS system ties in nicely with AE 552 Indoor Air Quality.

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