Spring 2003 Architectural Engineering Thesis Presentation Outline 

Introduction

-         This will be my introduction of me and the building I performed research on.

-         Overview of the discussion topics

Building Statistics

-         Location in the Pittsburgh area and close proximity to the river.

-         Intended uses as school, jazz club, and 9^th story penthouse.

-         Soil conditions and how they relate to foundation considerations

Foundation Analysis

-         What is the problem with the existing foundation plan?

1.      Time- based on methods of construction (equipment and procedure)

2.      Constructability- based on soil conditions  

-     What solutions have I analyzed in trying to solving the problem?

          1.   Auger Cast Piles

     -   What do I hope to achieve by using this type of foundation?

                1.   A similar structural capability for caissons and auger cast piles.

                2.   Close to equivalent cost in materials for each system.

                3.   Save time on construction costs through equipment and labor.

                4.   Save money in labor and equipment costs             

“Astrovision” video screen constructability evaluation

-         What items need to be considered when adding a large video screen to a project?

1.      Where can I obtain such a piece of equipment?

2.      Can I specify any size I want?

3.      Are there certain sizes or quality standards which affect price?

4.      How long ahead of time should I order one?

5.      What is needed in a building to have o large video screen?

6.      How are they constructed?  Who constructs them?

-         Is the high cost of the screen worth having it on the project?

    1. What are the benefits to the project or society?

Considerations affecting the decision whether or not to renovate two floors

-         The benefits of adding space to a building

1.      Revenue for the school through having more people occupying the space.

2.      Possibly nicer facilities and more space

3.      The ease of renovating these two last floors.

a.       The nature of the work is not extensive given it’s existing nature

b.      There is a contractor on site who performed renovation to the other floors

4.      What possible reasons could there be for not renovating these floors under the same contract?

a.       Dislike current contractor or contractor cannot perform work

b.      Over budget

c.       No need for space

Conclusion

-         What is the overall outcome of the situations discussed?

-         What decisions could have effected the situations differently?

-         What is in store for the CAPA building in the future?