Thesis Proposal

Caroline Klatman
Structural Option

181 Fremont

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Structural Design Alternative

In lieu of the mega-frame, the proposed thesis will investigate a more conventional method of stiffening tall buildings: steel outrigger bracing that links a central core to perimeter columns. The existing gravity framing is to be kept in place, with modifications made only to accommodate the new system.

Using prescriptive methods, the thesis will aim to optimize the outrigger framing in order to achieve the most efficient design possible. Completing this design will then allow for comparison to the mega-frame design and help to understand the cost savings associated with each as well as the possible performance deficiencies that may result from a prescriptive design.

Additionally, converting to an outrigger system will significantly reduce the impace the structure has on the facade, and therefore reduce the cost of detailing and facade construction. This gives way to a study of the facade to determine cost savings.

Construction Breadth

The construction breadth will first involve analyzing the constructability issues that come with the mega-frame's complex connections and impact on the facade. Thsi breadth will then look at what aspects of constructability are improved in response to the conversion to an outrigger system, and what constructability issues are raised. Finally, the cost of the current facade will be estimated and compared to the cost of a facade with no mega-frame.

Facade Study

The second breadth topic aims to evaluate the tilted glass pane concept behind the existing facade design. An analysis of the facade's effectiveness in improving thermal performance and creating energy savings will be performed. This analysis will then be used to consider ways of further improving the facades performance.

San Francisco, California

Thesis Proposal:

Revised Thesis Proposal:

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 Caroline Klatman. 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.

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This page was last updated on 09/07/2014 by Caroline Klatman and is hosted by the AE Department, ©2014