Structural Breadth - Roof Alterations to Media Center

In light of the fact that the Media & Technology Commons is in the core of the library, it receives little daylight. This breadth will tie into the Daylight depth explored for the MAE portion of the thesis by seeking to redesign the flat roof above the Media Center in order to better accommodate rectangular and/or tubular skylights. This will require load calculations for the supporting members of this area of the roof, as well as a redesign of any surrounding roof systems affected by the alteration.

 

Acoustical Breadth - Prefunction & 100-Person Theater​

The prefunction space and 100-person theater, meant for small functions, has a dedicated A/V system but no noticeable acoustical provisions within the space. This portion of the work will evaluate the need for acoustic intervention, analyze this need, and seek to implement a solution that improves the acoustic situation within the theater. This acoustic solution will need to respond to the aesthetically-specific style of the space, and it may be integrated with the final lighting design.

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MAE Daylighting Depth

The Media & Technology Commons, in the core of the library, is a large space without any daylight. This investigation will evaluate the need for daylight in the space, and then will propose a skylight-oriented solution. The pros and cons of standard vs. tubular skylights will be explored, as will placement, brand selection, and light level / sDA calculation. This depth will make use of the course concepts taught in AE 565 (Daylighting), AE 579 (Sustainability), and AE 597 (Computer Optimization). 

 

The roof alterations required for the implementation of these skylights will be further explored in the Structural breadth. The associated daylight-sensor controls will be explored in the Electrical depth, and they will also be evaluated for potential energy savings and green applicability.