JOSEPH W. WILCHER III

STRUCTURAL OPTION

UNION STATION EXPANSION

WASHINGTON DC

Thesis Proposal

Thesis Proposal

The ultimate goal of this thesis will be to incorporate the following three structural studies:

1. Using a composite structural steel system as the floor system for levels one through three
2. Incorporating the use of king post trusses as transfer structures on the mezzanine and ground level
3. An alternative lateral system composed of shear walls

The main intent is to incorporate the king post trusses not only as a gravity load transfer element that can hold up the new composite steel floor system, but to give a signature expression to the expansion of Union Station as well as keeping the open floor plan to the lower levels. Since a brand new gravity system is being incorporated into Union Station, the existing lateral system of moment frames will be replaced with brace frames and the strength of serviceability of the system will be checked.

To downlaod a complete version of the Executive Summary, click here (PDF Version).

To download a complete version of the Thesis Proposal, click here (PDF Version).

To downlaod a complete version of the Updated Thesis Proposal, click here (PDF Version).

Breadth Studies

Two breadth studies will be accomplished within this thesis. The first breadth deals with the architectural layout of the ground floor. Since the king post trusses will now be on the ground level, moving spaces around as well as determining the correct areas for the busses to park and circulate around will be addressed in this breadth. Within the lighting breadth, a lighting scheme for the king post trusses as well as a new lighting plan for the bus terminal area will be determined.

To download a complete version of the Breadth studies, click here (PDF Version).

M.A.E. Intergrated Study [Steel Connections]

In accordance with the guidelines for the M.A.E. of this proposal, the author will investigated the types of connections that can be used throughout the king post trusses used on the ground and mezzanine level. Determining the affect each connection (Amount of bolts, welds, plates, cost, etc.) could have on the design and optimization of the king post trusses will be taken into account. Once a connection is determined, a typical connection between members of a truss will be designed and detailed to verify the possibility of using this connection on the trusses on the transfer levels.

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 Joseph W. Wilcher III. Changes and discrepancies in no way imply that the original design contained errors or was flawed. Differing assumptions, code references, and methodologies have been incorporated into this thesis project; therefore, investigation results may vary from the original design."