Thesis Proposal
This thesis proposal outlines the topics and analyses I wish to pursue during the spring 2010 semester. It includes four research topics, the methods I plan to pursue, and what I expect to find. In addition, this proposal includes a proposed schedule and weight matrix demonstrating how I plan to allocate my time and effort among these activities.
Thesis Proposal (Jan 15, 2010 Version)
Thesis Proposal (December 15, 2009 Version)
Breadth Studies
Structural
Analysis 1 includes calculating the additional structural loads imposed by the green roof and redesigning a typical bay for these loads.
Mechanical
Analysis 2 involves designing an appropriate geothermal mechanical system for Pershing Hill Elementary School.
MAE Course Work
Research methods learned in AE 597K (Research Methods in Architectural Engineering) will be used to perform research on green roofs, geothermal systems, and precast systems, as identified in analysis activities 1, 2, and 3. Life cycle analysis for the geothermal system in analysis 2 will follow the method used in AE 572 (Project Development and Delivery Planning) to determine if an option is economically advantageous. When assessing schedule impacts, and in particular the need to condense the schedule as in Analysis 2, information from CE 533 (Construction Productivity and Performance Analysis) will be used to determine the optimal way to accelerate the schedule and the effects of overtime, overlapping trades, and working multiple shifts on productivity.