laura pica    
mechanical option   thesis proposal
 
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 A formal design proposal will serve as a guide and schedule to modify the current design of River Vue Apartments throughout the Spring 2012 semester. A large depth study will be conducted in the area of mechanical systems design while two breadth studies will focus on other areas of the Architectural Engineering program, such as lighting/electrical and construction management, to emphasize the importance of integrated design.
Revised Design Proposal    
 

 

 Depth Study
  In order to improve the building's energy usage, the building's current heat pumps will be removed to allow for re-zoning of the interior spaces. Demand control ventilation will be implemented using high velocity air streams and CO2 sensors to monitor occupancy and regulate ventilation more accurately. The current make-up air handling unit will be resized or replaced to manage this system and small supply air ducts will be designed for central corridor distribution.

 

  
  Breadth 1
  The first breadth study will examine the installation of a photovoltaic array for the roof and if the net electric consumption for the building can be reduced. These panels may improve the energy usage and earn sustainability points of River Vue apartments while allowing for internal shading devices to be implemented to reduce solar gains.
Original Design Proposal    
    Breadth 2
  A second breadth study will focus on the scheduling and cost impacts of changing the mechanical system and controls, as well as the addition of the photovoltaic array and corresponding electrical components. This study will be preparation for my potential career as a project manager for a mechanical contracting firm.

 

 

  
 
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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 laura pica. 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.

date last edited: 2/16/12