Welcome to Brian M. Barna's AE Senior Thesis e-Portfolio
Thesis Proposal
My main area of thesis research will involve redesigning the structural system and glazing for blast-resistance. I will also redesign the mechanical system to enable quick exhaust of airborne contaminants and perform architectural work to accommodate the changes to the structural and mechanical systems and incorporate my own ideas for the building aesthetic.
Structural Depth Study:
This thesis will explore different possibilities for structural redesign to withstand blast resistance. These methods may be employed independently or in combination; the method(s) chosen will be dependent on effectiveness and economic analysis. One method is to protect the columns from the blast using concrete (creating composite columns), steel plates as “armor”, or another rigid material. Provisions of the 13th Edition of the AISC Steel Construction Manual and the ACI 2005 code will be used. Another method is to design for the prevention of progressive collapse. In this method, it is assumed that a column or group of columns is obliterated in a blast, and the building is designed to redistribute the loads. This will be performed based on Progressive Collapse Analysis and Design Guidelines, published by the Government Services Administration. Another life safety criterion to be examined in the thesis is blast-resistant glazing design. This glass will be designed according to ASTM E 1300, "Standard practice for determining the load resistance of glass in buildings."
Mechanical Breadth Study:
This system will be redesigned for a typical courtroom space for the removal of excess contaminants. The purpose of this system is to design the mechanical system to protect life safety in the event of a bioterrorism attack using airborne contaminants; however, it can also be used to quickly remove smoke from the space in case of a fire. The system is reliant on building pressurization to help exhaust the unwanted air. Upon the system sensing a dangerous level of contamination, the contaminated space will become negatively pressurized, meaning that the contaminated air becomes forced into the exhaust. The main air intake for the room will need to be operating at a 100% outdoor air condition to eliminate room air mixing. The contaminated air would be exhausted out of large ducts on the roof of the building, at a safe distance from pedestrians on the ground as well as occupants of adjacent buildings.
Architectural Breadth Study:
Changes to the façade to help blast resistance and the large exhaust system that the changes to the mechanical system necessitate will result in a different exterior appearance from the existing building. The goal of this study is to make the necessary alterations to accommodate the structural and mechanical system improvements without straying far from the intended architectural program of the original architects. In addition, an effort will be made to improve the overall aesthetic of the building. Dr. Robert Holland can assist in the architectural critique of the thesis work.
Download Thesis Proposal (pdf)