Kristen M. Lechner Senior Thesis

Kristen M. Lechner | STRUCTURAL OPTION

ST. VINCENT MERCY MEDICAL CENTER HEART PAVILION
TOLEDO, OH

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 Kristen Lechner. 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.

Reflection

ABET Outcomes for AE 481W/482	Outcome not able to be assessed (Score of 0)	Level of ability demonstrated, but below acceptable (Score of 1)	Minimum acceptable level of ability demonstrated (Score of 2)	More than minimum level of ability demonstrated (Score of 3)
An ability to apply knowledge of mathematics, science, and engineering				X
An ability to analyze and interpret data				X
An ability to design a system, component, or process to meet desired needs				X
An ability to identify, formulate, and solve engineering problems				X
An understanding of professional and ethical responsibility				X
An ability to communicate effectively				X
The broad education necessary to understand the impact of engineering solutions in a global and societal context				X
An ability to engage in life-long learning				X
A knowledge of contemporary issues				X
An ability to use the techniques, skills, and modern engineering tools necessary for engineering practice				X
Engineering design capabilities in at least two (2) of the (3) basic curriculum areas of architectural engineering, and that design has been integrated across the breadth of the program				X
Communication and interaction with other design professionals in the execution of building projects				X

AE 481W/882 Course Reflection

The fifth year senior thesis project is an essential component of the Penn State AE Department. It ties together all knowledge gained within the five years spent in the AE program. Senior thesis is a very different experience for students as it represents a scenario similar to what practicing engineers are faced with on a daily basis. The structure of this course forces students to make engineering decisions and execute them in a time efficient manner. This is an essential quality to become a successful engineer. Through the hard work and determination that senior thesis requires, students gain an outstanding work ethic that will prove to be beneficial in engineering practice.

CPEP & Discussion Board Reflection

The electronic portfolio is a very efficient way for students to culminate the entire year's work. Faculty, professionals, friends, and family are able to view what students have been working on. It is greatly appreciated that this feature is provided by the AE staff and faculty.

The message board proved to be very beneficial for students while working on their senior thesis projects. The professional engineers provided students with great advice and feedback on matters that may not be taught in a textbook, but are considered a rule of thumb in practice. The senior thesis projects would not be the quality they are without the professional engineers' continuous help and support.

Senior Thesis | The Pennsylvania State University | Architectural Engineering | AE Labs | Contact Kristen