Welcome to Alexis Pacella's AE Senior Thesis e-Portfolio
Thesis Proposal
Depth
A study has been proposed to investigate alternative structural systems for Lexington II.
This study will include an analysis of one-way joist floor systems, the best alternative to
the current system. An analysis of Lexington II with composite floor decking will also be performed.
This second analysis will include the structural redesign of Lexington II to a completely steel system.
An in-depth comparison of moment to braced frames will also be provided as part of the steel redesign.
Mechanical differences between the systems and their affects on acoustics and vibration will also be
considered. Additional issues such as fireproofing and prefabrication off site will also be considered.
The final comparison of the systems will be based on ease of construction, cost (material and labor),
and time for erection.
Breadth: Mechanical
The first system that will be investigated is Lexington II's mechanical systems, including HVAC and plumbing.
The current systems are run throughout Lexington II by way of ducts concealed in soffits along interior partition
walls. With the creation of larger floor sandwiches it will be possible to redirect the MEP systems through the
floor sandwiches and conceal them using a suspended ceiling which would be in place to conceal the structural floor
beams as well. A major consideration of changing materials and duct layouts will be acoustics and vibrations
and the method in which they are transmitted through Lexington II.
Breadth: Construction Management
The second issue that will be looked at is the construction management involved with a steel system versus the
current concrete system. Changes in construction management will include a variety of issues ranging from crane
placement to the time and cost to erect a steel structural system. Other specific items to be investigated are
the advantage of prefabricating steel elements offsite and the addition of fireproofing to the structure as well
as the creation of a new construction schedule and cost analysis.
User Note:
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 M. Alexis Pacella. 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.
