Technical Analyses

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Technical Analysis I

The first technical analysis will look into the modularization of the building’s bathroom units. A feasibility study will be conducted to determine the extent in which the modularization can occur in regards to the structural system of the building. Additionally, the coordination efforts required from all trades involved will be analyzed. The location of capable facilities for modularization will also be researched. The goal of this analysis will be to determine the cost and schedule savings associated with implementing this modularized system.  

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Technical Analysis II

The second technical analysis will focus on installing submeters to track the energy usage of the building. The schedule impact and cost associated with installing the submetering devices will be analyzed. Research regarding what ways the energy usage can be displayed for building users and occupants will also be conducted. The goal of this second analysis will be to suggest a way that the building’s energy consumption can be reduced and illustrate that the savings of installing a submetering system, outweighs the cost.

 

Technical Analysis III

The third technical analysis will deal with the implementation of an alternative precast brick façade system for the exterior shell of the building. This analysis will investigate the mechanical implications associated with changing from a traditional laid-brick approach. Additionally, the cost of the new system and schedule impact of sequencing the erection of the precast panels will be analyzed. The goal of this analysis is to determine if the use of an alternative precast brick façade is cost effective, feasible, and will save significant time on the schedule.

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Critical Industry Issue

Based on the problem of workers overheating during summer work, new technologies and strategies being adopted to deal with extreme heat conditions will be researched. The goal of this research will be to identify what practical measures could be taken on future Penn State projects that will keep workers safe and keep productivity levels high during hot and humid weather conditions.

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Breadth Studies

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Electrical Breadth

The first breadth analysis is proposed for the Technical Analysis II: Submetering to Track Energy Use. This analysis will focus on understanding the electrical system currently designed for the Earle Hall project. It will involve understanding the system specifications and what submetering systems are compatible with the current designed system. Additionally coordination with the electrical subcontractor, Lighthouse Electric, will be required to learn more about the installation procedures and length of time to install the submetering devices. A cost analysis of both additional labor and materials required for this implementation will be performed. After choosing a preferred device and installation method, the ways and places that this information can be displayed will be analyzed to determine what is most effective at educating the building occupants. The goal of this electrical breadth is to determine the cost and schedule impact of adding submetering devices to the project and understand how these devices can help the owner consume less energy, thus saving money.

 

Mechanical Breadth

The second breadth is proposed for the Technical Analysis III: Precast Brick Panel Façade. This analysis will focus on the mechanical system loads associated with implementing a precast concrete-brick façade system for the exterior enclosure of the building. The U-Value of the current and proposed alternative wall system will be analyzed to determine if the new facade will create cause the mechanical system to expierence higher or lower heating/cooling loads. 

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