User 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 Erik Carlson. 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 form the original design."

Breadth 1: Photovoltaic Module Analysis
Bridgeside II has a south facing glass wall that overlooks the Monongahela River. Therefore, for breadth 1, I am proposing the use of photovoltaic glass panels. The panels will have unobstructed solar views, however, an analysis will need to be performed to see if Pittsburgh has enough sunny days. Also breadth 1 will analyze the payback period and the necessary changes to the electrical systems and equipment. The PV glass has the potential to reduce energy consumption and lower the life‐cycle costs of the building.

Breadth 2: Deep Foundation Analysis
One of the issues when installing the deep foundation system was that existing foundations and steel debris prevented the steel h-piles from driving into the ground. Therefore each pile had to be pre-drilled which created schedule delays and cost increases. Analysis 2 proposes the idea to use micro piles and an alternative drilling method such as an auger. The micro piles were recommended by the geotechnical engineer because they can be driven faster and will require less drilling. An analysis will be required to determine the necessary size of the micro piles and how many are needed. Also the pile caps will have to be analyzed for any necessary changes in size and reinforcing.

Depth: BIM and Shell Building Design
Designing a shell office and lab building can be difficult because a tenant has not been arranged to guide the design team and project teams typically change. Therefore the architect and MEP engineer have to design the building and equipment based on assumptions and experience. This analysis will develop a process for how the BIM model could assist potential tenants in visualizing and planning their future space and how the model needs to be developed so that it is beneficial to the owner and the project teams.