PPD Mix2 Flashcards
What are the three categories of exterior wall assemblies?
Barrier Walls: They rely on thickness of the material such as cast in place concrete walls or recast concrete walls or CMU walls.
Drainage Walls: In this assembly type usually there is an outer face that resists the water and moisture and there is a drainage cavity behind supported with a structural systems that drains any penetrating water and moisture. Brick veneer walls or panel systems are example to this type of assembly.
Pressure Equalized Walls: These type of assemblies have air pressure in the air cavity to eliminate water penetrating in the assembly. Many curtain wall systems are examples of this type of wall.
Which structural design strategy provides the best solution for a project that has an irregular geometry on plan level?
-system without beams/ joists in the floor or roof, such as site cast concrete 2 way flat plate, to successfully accomplish irregular geometries.
Which construction material rarely completes a structural system on its own?
Masonry - usually is used as a supporting material or filling element between wood, concrete or steel structures but rarely makes a whole structural system on its own.
Machine Room Less Elevators (MRL)
Regarding initial cost and maintenance cost, they are comparable to geared traction elevators
life-cycle cost is much lower than geared traction elevators
Hydraulic Elevator
lowest initial and maintenance cost compared to other elevator types due to absence of traction motors, penthouse equipment, elaborate controllers, safety equipment, cables and drums
life-cycle cost is much higher due to larger motor that pumps the oil.
Single jack holeless travel distance is up to 14-16 feet
**The telescoping plunger is the type of plunger that is used by hole-less hydraulic elevators.
Gearless Traction Elevator
high initial cost
medium level maintenance costs
use energy a little more efficiently compared to geared traction elevators
faster, and longer travel distances suitable, such as high-rise office buildings
Geared Traction Elevator
medium level initial cost
medium level maintenance cost and life-cycle cost
What is Turbidity?
the name of visible pollutants that are in roof runoff, rivers and streams and expected to be in harvested rainwater. (rain water is not naturally drinkable)
What is flexural stress?
Stresses caused by the bending moment are known as flexural or bending stresses. Consider a beam to be loaded as shown: Consider a fiber at a distance from the neutral axis, because of the beam’s curvature, as the effect of. bending moment, the fiber is stretched by an amount of . (also known as bending stress)
When it comes to cost and budgeting, architectural design can usually control which 4 areas?
Mechanical systems
Structural system
Flexibility of the space design
Finishes and materials
The architect should recommend a central system that does not occupy space in the room, therefore, will provide flexibility for various redecoration or remodeling scenarios. Which three basic HVAC systems will do that?:
Through the wall units
Variable air volume
Single‐zone terminal reheat all‐air system
Hydronic convectors and
Fan-coil terminals can be good solutions, too; however, if the client wants the system not to occupy floor space; they will not be a good option.
What are the factors humans are most affected by and should be considered when designing an HVAC system?
Air temperature Relative humidity Mean radiant temperature Air motion Air purity Sound vibration Light
If the geometrical design of the structural bay dictates a rectangular shape, which structural system is preferred?
one-way systems either built with joists or slabs
If the geometrical design of the structural bay dictates a square shape, which structural system is preferred?
two-way systems of beams and slabs
True or False?
The lower the U-Factor of a window the better it insulates?
True
For house in cold climates:
Low U Factor -High SHGC
For house in hot climates:
Low U Factor, -Low SHGC (shades)
True or False?
The lower the SHGC, the less solar heat it transmits and the greater its shading ability.
True
For house in cold climates:
Low U Factor -High SHGC
For house in hot climates:
Low U Factor, -Low SHGC (shades)
What HVAC system is used if the project dictates a compact system?
all water systems are the most compact HVAC systems, due to lack of duct work. Water is delivered via pipes and pipes takes much less space than ducts. In this systems water is delivered from a central location.
What are the three main strategies to deal with liquefaction?
Compacting site
Excavating, existing liquefiable soil and replacing it with stringer soil types
Building wells accompanied by infiltration barriers around the foundation to pump out existing ground water level and to prevent new water infiltration.
True or False?
Steel rebars are the most typical and most common rebars but cannot resist corrosive environments as long as epoxy-coated steel bars.
True
What are GFRP rebars?
Glass-fiber reinforced polymer rebars (GFRP) are used when non-ferrous/ non-magnetic, reinforcement required, such as an MRI facility.
Where might stainless steel rebars be used?
Stainless steel rebars are very expensive, they have the highest durability and usually used in buildings like nuclear facilities.
List the structural beams in order of potential longest spanning starting from least to greatest:
LH DLH K Single Tee -pre-stressed Double Tee-pre-stressed Glue-Lam wood Beam
K- 60 ft LH- 96 ft Glue Lam 100 ft Double Tee 100 ft DLH 144 ft Single Tee 150 ft
What type of smoke detector would most likely be preferred for spaces less than 15 feet or less and typically used in offices and residential projects?
Ionization Smoke Detectors
What type of smoke detector would most likely be preferred for super clean environments?
Laser Beam Photoelectric Detector
- depends on a very high sensitive laser technology
What type of smoke detector would most likely be preferred for outdoors, historical buildings , roads and tunnels?
Video Smoke Detection
- is a system that based in computer analysis of CCTV footage to detect fires
What type of smoke detector would most likely be preferred for places with high ceilings?
Projected Beam Photoelectric Smoke Detector
-their performance can be obstructed by pendant light fixtures and exposed ceiling elements. Recessed fixtures and unexposed, smooth ceilings are the best situations for these detectors.
In all-water HVAC systems, you still need a delivery medium, that transfers the heat or the cold from water to air. These devices are called what?
water‐to‐air heat exchangers
Other devices that utilizes a fan to deliver heated or cooled air are: Convectors, Active chilled beams, Induction units (can be without fan too) and Fan‐coil units. Having fan in a system means a noisier application and extra maintenance issues. All other given options depend mainly on natural occurrence of convection, therefore they cannot provide air exchange as fast as a fanned device.
Name three strategies for reducing the echoing in medium to large halls:
Provide deep, sound-absorbing glass-fiber blanket insulation supported by furring on the rear wall of the lecture hall
Reduce the front portion of the ceiling height that is above the speaker (or the stage) to create a useful reflection surface
Splay the rear wall to redirect the echoing sound to more absorbent surfaces such as carpet flooring
***Uniform ceilings, concave ceilings and concave rear walls are not recommended at all, since they would make echoing issue even worse.
True or False?
The more perpendicular the panel to the sun’s rays, the better for solar panels
True
Examples:
Collector Tilt Angle = Minus 15 degrees of building latitude: A collector tilt for heating swimming pools or for solar cooling.
Collector Tilt Angle = Plus 15 degrees of building latitude: A collector tilt for space heating and for the combination space heating and domestic hot water.
Collector Tilt Angle = Equals to building latitude: A collector tilt for domestic hot water.
Shading devices for:
South Facing Windows
horizontal overhangs.
Summer sun will be higher up on the sky and will be strongly felt on south facade of the building, therefore, having horizontal overhangs provides the best shading.
Shading devices for:
East and West Facing Windows
most problematic directions
-due to sun being low on the sky in the morning time for East facade and in the afternoon for West so if possible, THEY SHOULD BE AVOIDED. One good solution can be directing the windows on this facades to south or north. If this two solutions are not possible, then the DEEP HORIZONTAL OVERHANGS are still the best shading solution for E/W. Another good option for E/W orientation can be SLANTED VERTICAL FINS oriented, North or South depending on the climate. In COLD climates they should be SLANTED SOUTH and in HOT climates they should be SLANTED NORTH. However it should be understood that, to be effective, shading devices on E/W facades will have to BLOCK THE VIEW immensely.
Shading devices for:
North Facing Windows
vertical fins
Name 3 ways soil conditioning or densifying can be achieved ?
compacting soil with extra loads is one of the most common methods. When soils are compacted under heavy loads, they retain that memory, also called “pre-consolidation.”
Mixing soil with cement or grouting is another method that is used for similar reasons.
Ground freezing is done by introducing chemicals that freeze the moisture in soil and bonds soil together like cement.
Traction Machine Room-less elevators are essentially very similar to other traction elevators, except they don’t require what?
a penthouse for the machinery.
Instead the machinery is located in the hoist-way. There is also a locked control room located in hoist-way. The counterweights can also be located either in the rear or on sides of the cabin. MRL elevators are good options for mid-size projects. Maximum travel distance for MRLs is 250 feet which is comparable to geared traction elevators.
Pre-Cast concrete tends to be pre-stressed while Site-Cast concrete tends to be what?
post tensioned.
essentially the same idea but the fit to the situation
For light to medium loaded and short span structures, which of the site-cast concrete framing systems should be selected?
One-Way Solid Slab
– One way slab systems can span 10 to 20 feet and good for light to medium loads
Two-Way Flat Plate
– Two way slabs can span up to 30 – 40 feet and good for light to medium loads
For light to heavy loaded and long span structures, which of the site-cast concrete framing systems should be selected?
Waffle slabs
Beam & slab (one way or two way)
What is the main disadvantage of the single duct, constant air volume HVAC systems?
- they don’t provide individual temperature control in in spaces therefore not preferred in buildings with smaller units, such as hotels.
What chapter in the IBC deals with height and area?
Chapter 5
Air-entraining agents
Air entrainment is the intentional creation of tiny air bubbles in concrete. he benefits of entraining air in the concrete include increased resistance to freeze-thaw degradation, increased cohesion (resulting in less bleed and segregation) and improved compaction in low-workability mixes.
What is a superplasticizer?
-also known as high range water reducers, are additives used in making high strength concrete. Plasticizers are chemical compounds that enable the production of concrete with approximately 15% less water content. Superplasticizers allow reduction in water content by 30% or more.
Benefits of Stormwater Retention Ponds-
Improved water quality in surrounding water bodies. -R–Retention ponds manage stormwater quantity and quality, lessening the transfer of pollutants and chemicals into nearby water bodies.
Aesthetic appeal.
-A retention pond may enhance aesthetics via plant selection, plant placement, topography and pedestrian access options.
Increased biodiversity.
-Biodiversity is defined as the variation of life forms in a given ecosystem. Landscaping with ponds and different varieties of plants can add to the the natural environment.
Wildlife habitat.
-Retention ponds provide habitats for animals, organisms and insects.
Water conservation.
-Water that is stored in retention ponds is available for non-potable human uses such as irrigation.
Flood prevention.
-Stormwater quantity reductions minimize the risk of flooding in nearby areas.
Minimization of erosion.
-Stormwater quantity reductions minimize erosion in the nearby area and along the banks of water bodies.
What is another name for “horizontal ground source heat pump”?
Geothermal heat pumps (GHPs), sometimes referred to as GeoExchange, earth-coupled, ground-source, or water-source heat pumps.
Project Source is what?
where the capital used to fund an acquisition will come from
Project Use is what?
what this capital will purchase
True or False?
Water that is stored in retention ponds is available for potable human use.
False
-non-potable human uses such as irrigation.
Can captured rainwater be used as a potable source?
Kinda-
it’s not advisable to start collecting and drinking rainwater unless you’re 100% certain it’s clean and safe for human consumption. Although clean rainwater is safe to drink, it can easily become contaminated as it falls, which could pose a significant health hazard. Roofs may be a source of contamination.
But if purified it can be used as drinking water. There are two primary steps to rainwater treatment: filtration and sterilization using chlorine or UV light
Rowlock Brick
A brick laid on its face, or edge. Soldier. A brick laid on its end so that its longest dimension is parallel to the vertical axis of the face of the wall.
Flemish Bond Brickwork
Image result for Rowlock brick
Flemish bond is a popular bricklaying pattern that’s created by alternately laying headers and stretchers in a single course of brick. … This brick bond pattern tends to be slightly weaker than the English bond when it’s one brick thick, however is still commonly used and includes a little more cutting and shaping work.
Some sources of VOC’s are:
paints, paint strippers and other solvents wood preservatives aerosol sprays cleansers and disinfectants moth repellents and air fresheners stored fuels and automotive products hobby supplies dry-cleaned clothing pesticide building materials and furnishings office equipment such as copiers and printers, correction fluids and carbonless copy paper graphics and craft materials including glues and adhesives, permanent markers and photographic solutions.
What is a riparian Corridor?
unique plant community consisting of the vegetation growing near a river, stream, lake, lagoon or other natural body of water.
The fire-resistive rating of an exit stairway in a two-story building must be what?
1-hour
- based on IBC Section 1023.2.
What is a Sunspace?
A sunspace is separated from the main living space by a thermal storage wall.
Direct Gain Passive Solar
VS
Indirect Gain Passive Solar
Direct-
Direct gain systems collect heat directly within an interior space.
Indirect-
Indirect gain systems control heat gain at the exterior skin of a building, utilizing a Trombe wall or a drumwall of water-filled barrels or tubes.
What is an Isolated Passive Solar system?
Isolated gain systems collect and store solar radiation away from the space to be heated, as described.
This particular design uses a nearby south-facing slope. The slope will have a specially designed collector where air will be warmed by the sun and then rise to serve as the heat for the building. Cooler air will simultaneously be pulled from a chamber below the floor, creating a convection loop.
When should the architect recommend submitting drawings to the proper planning and permitting authority to begin the approval process?
After the design development phase, once a set of drawings has been prepared specifically for permitting purposes
Which three pieces of information will the architect need to know in order to determine the construction type?
- Occupancy Type
- Sprinklered/Number of Stories
- Building Square Footage.
And in that order! The combination of these three pieces of information will allow the architect to select an appropriate construction type. The architect should also know the construction type they want to use and reverse the process by detraining an allowable square footage based on occupancy type.
What is the minimum required fire-rated separation between the private garages?
- 0-hour
- The International Building Code (2018) 406.3.1 requires a 1-hour fire barrier between the garages.
True or False?
A retention pond cannot aid in naturally cooling a building.
False
A retention pond, when properly sited, can provide slightly cool air downwind of its location. The prevailing winds come from one direction, which means that positioning the pond towards that direction of the house will allow the cooler surface temperatures of the pond to be carried towards the residence.
Which is the most effective way to implement a constructed sound barrier?
The barrier should be placed as close to the sound as possible.
-The best approach is to screen the noise as soon as possible. The effectiveness of a sound barrier depends on its position, height, and mass. The most crucial characteristic is the barrier’s position relative to the sound source.
In most office buildings throughout the U.S., as well as other countries, the peak electrical load occurs when?
summer afternoons-
when cooling loads are high and equipment and electric lighting are drawing power. Summer afternoons offer plenty of opportunities for harnessing daylight, which can help to lower the peak demand.
Which is the maximum slope of the sidewalk from the parking area to the front door (also known as an accessible pathway)?
1:20
NOT 1:12- that is the slope for a ramp
Name a good strategy that can assist in the process of value engineering?
Creating mock-ups of assemblies
-Creating mock-ups of systems and assemblies can help open the door to innovative design discussions and solutions. Mock-ups offer the design team a chance to interact with and better understand a system or assembly. By better understanding the item, the design team can then search for cheaper solutions to achieve the same or similar results.
True or False?
For retaining walls 2’-0” tall or less, seep holes and drainage pipes are not required.
True
Weep holes and drainage pipe may be omitted from the design of the retaining wall.
Name four types of piles from the weakest to the strongest?
Timber
-Timber piles have a maximum length of 110 feet. They are also the weakest type of pile and would not be able to support the loads for a 15-story office building.
Precast concrete
-Precast concrete piles can only extend up to 100 feet into the earth, and they have relatively low bearing capacity.
Drilled piers with bells
-Drilled piers with bells can only extend up to 120 feet into the earth, and they have relatively low bearing capacity
Concrete-filled drilled caissons
-Concrete-filled drilled caissons can extend up to 250 feet into the earth. They also have the highest bearing capacity of all pile types.
Ohm’s Law
Ohm’s Law states that current is directly proportional to voltage and inversely proportional to resistance.
What is Green Seal Standard GS-11?
-refers to a standard set of environmental, health, and performance requirements for sustainable paints and coatings.
In which climatic region is reducing surface area the most effective means for conserving energy?
cool and cold regions
-For cool and cold regions, a compact form which reduces surface area can be effective in retaining heat.
What is a car buffer in a hydraulic elevator?
A buffer is a device designed to stop a descending car or counterweight beyond its normal limit and to soften the force with which the elevator runs into the pit during an emergency. They may be of polyurethane or oil type depending on the rated speed.
In a two-way slab system, the column offset can’t be anymore than what of the horizontal dimension.
1/10
As an example, if the horizontal dimension is 26’, the offset can be up to 2’7”.
What is the maximum rise of an exterior stair that does not require a guardrail?
30”
True or False?
A central HVAC all-water system offers no dehumidification.
False
One major disadvantage to an all-water system is that it provides no humidification.
What glass is effective at reducing sound transmission?
Laminated
When is panic hardware required?
Panic hardware is required for A and E occupancies with 50 or more occupants.
Panic hardware is required for high-hazard occupancies regardless of occupant load.
**R occupancies do not require panic hardware. (residential)
Which type of HVAC system would be best for a large airport project requires simultaneous heating and cooling for various program spaces across a terminal?
Heat recovery variable refrigerant flow (VRF) system
-The heat recovery system can provide both heating and cooling at the same time. This is ideal if the building has several rooms or separate programmatic spaces.
Name a device or chart that can help an architect to determine how the sun’s path interacts with their design?
Stereographic sun chart
Correct. A stereographic sun chart is a graphic representation of the sun’s position throughout the day, graphed across an entire year. It can help determine how the sun’s path will interact with a space.
Name the processes that the architect should use in order to determine the fire resistance rating of the machine room?
number of stories served by the elevator
fire rating of the associated hoistway
ventilation requirements
***International Building Code (IBC) 2018, 3005.4 requires the machine room to have the same fire resistance rating as the elevator hoistway. In order to determine the fire resistance of the hoistway, the architect would need to know the number of stories served by the elevator. The number of stories served by the elevator will determine the fire resistance rating of the hoistway.
Which method of energy calculation should be used by the project team to verify LEED compliance?
Energy cost budget
-It determines the energy budget for a specific building. The budget is calculated with a computer simulation of hourly energy use over the course of a year. Although it is a complex method, it is the only way to deal with individual projects and the unique aspects of a design.
What is an ice storage cooling system?
An ice storage system uses a chiller to make ice during off-peak night time hours when energy is cheaper and then melts the ice for peak period cooling needs, effectively shifting the electric load and avoiding higher price energy and demand charges during the
day. The operation of an ice storage system is comprised of two normal modes: the ice charging mode and ice melt/burn mode.
True or False?
The maintenance costs are irrelevant to annual depreciation calculations.
True
Do not include maintenance cost when doing a calculation for the depreciation of material or equipment.
True or False?
Sustainable design alternatives are covered under the scope of the architect’s basic services, per the AIA Standard Form of Agreement between Owner and Architect.
True
Not :
Multiple preliminary designs
Landscaping design alternatives
What is the best way to reduce solar heat gain?
By blocking the sun’s rays from entering the building. Exterior shutters block the sun’s rays by shading the glass.
What is the maximum number of elevators one hoistway can contain?
Four max
as per International Building Code 2018, Section 3002, 3002.2
What is the minimum clear space between the faces of the cabinets and refrigerator for accessible kitchens and non accessible kitchens?
accessible- 60”
non-accessible - 40”
All-air systems need about what percentage of the gross building area for the HVAC system, depending on the building size and program.
3% to 9%
A good rule of thumb is large buildings (>50,000 sf) set aside 3% of the gross area for HVAC systems, midsize buildings (between 5,000 sf and 50,000 sf) set aside 6%, and small buildings (<5,000 sf) set aside 9%.
If the mezzanine occupancy load is 19 persons and the main floor load is 30 persons, what is the egress capacity of the bar?
49
Egress capacity = mezzanine occupancy load + main floor occupancy load = 19 + 30 = 49.
The principle of convergence should be applied, based on the assumption that the occupants of the mezzanine will pass through the floor below in order to exit the spaces. This means that the occupant load of the mezzanine should be added to the occupant load of the main floor to determine the egress capacity.
What is the maximum slope the designer should use for a sod athletic field?
2% (1:50)
What is the maximum slope the designer should use for a lawn to avoid erosion?
10%
What is the maximum slope the designer should use for streets, driveways, and parking lots?
20%
This is very steep, and 1-10% is preferable.
What is the maximum slope at which soil stabilization becomes a concern but is preferably handled by planted vegetation?
5%
10% is the maximum for planted slopes.
The secondary effect of force due to the sway of a building is called what?
P-delta effect
There are various types of forces exerted upon a building that affect the building’s structure. Natural forces such as an earthquake can cause a building to sway back and forth. This motion results in additional forces that are identified as P-delta effect.
What is the maximum cross slope of a sidewalk at an accessible entrance?
1:48
What is the maximum slope for accessible routes that are not considered ramps?
1:20
What is an inverted roof?
where the waterproofing layer is installed over the structural deck rather than over the insulation. Rigid extruded polystyrene insulation has minimal water absorption due to its closed cell structure. This makes it the only material suitable and approved for inverted roof application. Top layer is called the ballast made from gravel or concrete blocks.
What is a heat pump system?
A heat pump is a versatile, efficient cooling and heating system. Thanks to a reversing valve, a heat pump can change the flow of refrigerant and either heat or cool a home. Air is blown over an evaporator coil, transferring heat energy from the air to the refrigerant.
In which climate region are roof ponds effective?
low humidity and clear summer nights
The conditions exist in most of the southern tier, where the cooling demand is greatest.
What is a Multi-split HVAC system?
Connects up to five indoor units to a single outdoor unit. Installs a complete air conditioning system to multiple zone interior spaces with no need for ductwork. Provides individual control of room temperature settings.
What are the three grades of brick?
Severe Weathering (SW): Able to experience freeze and thaw cycles; perfect for cold climates
Moderate Weathering (MW): Tolerance to frost and freezing; used for outdoor walls
No Weathering (NW): For indoor use only
Based on the IBC, how big can a mezzanine be?
The total area of a mezzanine within a room shall be not greater than 1/3 the floor area of the room in which it is located.
What is the main disadvantage of the single duct, constant air volume HVAC systems?
They don’t provide individual temperature control in spaces therefore not preferred in buildings with smaller units, such as hotels.
Which boiler conserves energy the most?
modular
Steel cost is directly associated with what?
weight
the primary reason to create beam sections as light as possible is because they cost less. Any custom built section means deviation from readily available members, which will increase the cost. Field -welded connections are labor intense, time consuming and pricey connections so they should be used when creating rigid connections are absolutely necessary.
Which light bulb type can operate at higher temperatures without burning the filament as fast as Incandescent lamps, and can achieve very bright lighting in a very small lamp size so they are mostly used in automobile headlamps or projector lamp?
Halogen Lights
Which light bulb type has a long lamp life, good color rendering (less than fluorescent) and high efficacy (more than fluorescent) and they are great for outdoor application in cold weather? (They are also used in gymnasiums, schools, warehouses, stores and offices. They have a bit warm up time in the beginning so they don’t deliver light as fast as fluorescent lights.)
Metal Halide Lamps
Which light bulb type is no longer used in general lighting but due to their great CRI, they are preferred as accent lighting in a retail display or a painting display at a museum. (The extra spark they have is best for applications as such. Their initial cost is low but operational cost is very high. Their lamp life is short too so they are banned to use in some countries.)
Incandescent Lights
-incandescent lamps belong to tungsten /filament lights and commonly used in desk lamps, table lamps, hallway lighting, closets, accent lighting, and chandeliers. They provide good color rendering, best for rendering skin tones, and they are very cheap. They don’t require ballast. However they have some disadvantages. First of all they are not very energy efficient and their use is limited or even banned in some countries. Also, they have low efficacy, short lamp life and critical voltage sensitivity.
Which light bulb type is still used very commonly since their invention in 1930s due to their low lamp cost, good color rendering and long lamp light.
Fluorescent Lamps
Types T-6 Single Pin, T-2 Axial Base and Circle-line 4, Pin T-9 are typical fluorescent lamp types. Typical fluorescent lights don’t work in cold, outdoor environment. CFL (compact fluorescent light) types are designed to provide this feature.
Which light bulb type have the highest efficacy, is one of the longest long lamp life in market and their color rendering is great as well, not to mention are usually a big part of a sustainability scenario?
LED
For light to medium loaded and short span structures, which of the site-cast concrete framing systems below should be selected?
One-Way Solid Slab – One way slab systems can span 10 to 20 feet and good for light to medium loads
Two-Way Flat Plate – Two way slabs can span up to 30 – 40 feet and good for light to medium loads
Name the different site cast concrete structure systems and appx load retention and span length:
One-Way Solid Slab
-One way slab systems can span 10 to 20 feet and good for light to medium loads.
Two-Way Flat Plate
-Two way slabs can span up to 30 – 40 feet and good for light to medium loads
Two-Way Flat Slab
- can span up to 30 – 40 feet and good for medium to heavy loads.
Waffle Slab and
Beam & Slab (one way or two way) are great at carrying heavy loads and can span long distances.
What are some design decisions to avoid potential glare issues?
Light shelves – especially to solve the issue with high windows.
Avoid East / West day-lighting
Choose light colored interiors
Prefer bilateral lighting in space as possible
Design overhangs on South wall windows.
What is the definition of atrium as per IBC?
An opening connecting two or more floor levels that are closed at the top.
High mounted fluorescent lamp has a cool white light (4200K) which means it is rich in what color?
Blue
-this light will make blue look very bright blue
P-Delta effect can be seen on what type of structural scenario?
tall and slender columns under both gravitational and lateral loads.
-Bending moment on columns can manifest in different ways. When a column is under gravitational loads, a degree of bending is expected but in tall, slender columns additional bending can potentially occur where the axis of the column deviates beyond the axis of vertical loads. The distance between that two axis is represented in Δ and P (vertical load) x Δ gives the total deflection effect on column.
Name and give examples of the three different types of HVAC systems:
Local Systems: Usually serves single zone, it is self contained and usually located within the room it is serving. Residential buildings with multiple units is a good example to this scale.
Central System: HVAC system is located in a central location in building and serves multiple zones from one remote location. It involves a mechanical room, a distribution system (pipes/ duct work). It can be used from a single family home to a laboratory or a shopping mall.
District System: Serves multiple buildings, such as a college campus.
**the scale of the building type/use is an important factor to classify HVAC systems.
What are four types of photovoltaic cells?
Monocrystalline Silicon Solar Cells
-most efficient PV-cell type, but they are also still the most expensive option. Monocrystalline silicon solar cells can have 15 to 20% efficiency.
Polycrystalline Silicon Solar Cells
-are cheaper than monocrystalline silicon solar cells due to cheaper manufacturing techniques but their efficiency is between 13-16%
String Ribbon Solar Cells
-are more costly compared to monocrystalline silicon solar cells and their efficiency is around 13-14%. They have the lowest space-efficiency of any of the main types of crystalline-based solar panels. They are made out of wires that can withstand extreme temperatures. These wires are pulled through molten silicon, which creates very thin silicon ribbons. These solar panels look similar to traditional polycrystalline panels.
Thin-Film Solar Cells (TFSC)
-are much cheaper and they can be flexible however their efficiency is around 7-13 % . They are not the most practical for most residential purposes. They degrade quicker than mono- and polycrystalline solar panels.
What is a degree day?
A degree day compares the mean (the average of the high and low) outdoor temperatures recorded for a location to a standard temperature, usually 65° Fahrenheit (F) in the United States. The more extreme the outside temperature, the higher the number of degree days. A high number of degree days generally results in higher levels of energy use for space heating or cooling.
According to Mechanical & Electrical Equipment for Buildings, Chapter 24, Section 24.26, what are the 3 main strategies to reduce mechanical system noise in buildings?
Reducing the vibration of the source: Isolation or damping are the main solutions to reduce the vibration at the source. Option 1 is an example to damping and Option 2 is an example to isolation. Option 5 is incorrect cause, “flexible” joints in pipes and ducts would provide a better isolation, not rigid.
Reducing the airborne noise by decoupling the vibration from efficient radiating sources. Smooth an larger angled bends are more preferred in long running ducts to prevent turbulence noise. It is correct that some times, especially in very short duct run, a 90 degree bend is also intentionally inserted to reduce the fan noise however option 3 recommends it for a long duct run which creates the turbulence noise issue, hence incorrect. Lining ductwork with fibrous material is also a good solution to reduce airborne noise. Option 4 is incorrect cause throttling dampers are used to regulate air flow by creating partial closures which generates more noise.
Decoupling the source from the structure.
What are some of the advantages of local HVAC systems?
Occupy less space
More economical to buy and install
More advantageous in buildings that have many small spaces requiring individual temperature control
What are the five different standpipe types?
Automatic‐wet systems: In this system the pipes are filled with water at all times and it is immediately available to the firefighters’ use.
Automatic‐dry systems: In this system the pipes are filled with pressurized air, and are connected to a water supply. In case of fire, system automatically replaces air with water when hose valve is opened.
Semi-automatic‐dry systems: Similar to Automatic‐dry systems the pipes are filled with pressurized air, and are connected to a water supply. However there is a secondary remote sensing device at hose that needs to be triggered that makes water replace itself with air when hose valves are opened. This system is similar to deluge sprinkler system and often used when highly valuable material stored in the building. Two phased activation system is to prevent false alarms.
Manual‐dry systems: In this system the pipes are filled with air and there is no connection to water supply other than provided by firefighters.
Manual‐wet systems: In this system the pipes are filled with water and it is connected to a dedicated domestic water source.
According to Mechanical & Electrical Equipment for Buildings, Chapter 18, hydro zoning principles in landscaping, what kind of plants should be restricted to areas where they can be easily be watered by the rain water?
exotic
What is structure damping?
If a structure is made to vibrate, the amplitude of the vibration will decay over time and eventually cease. Damping is a measure of this decay in amplitude, and it is due to internal friction and absorbed energy. The nature of the structure and its connections affects the damping; a heavy concrete structure will provide more damping than a light steel frame. Architectural features such as partitions and exterior façade construction contribute to the damping. A damping value of zero might be used in the design of an simple vibrator, such as a flag pole or a water tank supported on a single cantilever column. For typical structures, engineers generally use a value of 5 % critical
What are the three major components to an egress system?
Exit,
Exit access,
Exit discharge
True or False?
In general, building codes are more prescriptive in nature.
True
In general, building codes are more prescriptive (specific) due to their nature of specifying requirements in detail and with few opportunities to set performance criteria for more architectural innovation.
What is the main purpose of a bolted steel bearing plate at a steel column & concrete footing?
the purpose of the steel bearing plate is to create a larger surface for loads coming from the column above to reduce bearing pressure at footing
During what time of the year is it recommended to have the tilt angle of PV (photovoltaic) panels 15 degree more than the latitude to be able to receive sun light as close as to 90 degree for maximum energy generation
Winter
Winter sun is lower in the sky which makes sun arrays shoot surfaces on a much horizontal angle. So increasing the tilt will make the PV panels face those horizontal arrays in a more perpendicular angle
During what time of the year is it recommended in reducing the tilt angle of a PV (photovoltaic) panel by 15 degrees more than latitude to have a better effect since the sun is more high up in sky and its natural angle is already steep. If re-arranging tilt angle of the panels is not possible, fixing panels same as the altitude is the best solution.
Summer
How do you calculate percentage slope to rise/run pitch?
What pitch is a 2% slope?
What pitch is a 10% slope?
1 divide by .02 = 50
so pitch is: 1/50
1 divide by .1 = 10
so pitch is: 1/10
What are some disadvantages of heavy timber construction?
Harder to conceal mechanical or electrical systems: Since there is no hollow space it is harder to hide mechanical, plumbing or electrical systems. Piping, wiring and duct work requires careful attention. Larger components can be exposed or hide behind separate finishes.
Less convenient for irregular building design: Usually construction materials that uses smaller units or lighter elements serve better for irregular design. For example wood light frame members or masonry systems.
***Heavy timber is very commonly used in low rise buildings and relatively an economical option.
In a temperate climate with strong Northeast winds, name some very efficient passive heat gain and day lighting strategies available for temperate climates:
Increase the southern exposure to invite more heat in, during summer
Provide limited northern windows for summer ventilation.
Limit exposure on East/West as much as possible for a better day-lighting
If windows on this faces are unavoidable, benefit from existing buildings, trees or site features to shade east/west windows through out the year,
Benefit from existing buildings, trees or site features for summer shading on South windows
Put the following given events that are supposed to occur while designing a building in order from first to last:
-Determine allowable Height and Areas.
-Determine allowable Construction Types.
-Determine which model code applies to
your building.
-Determine Occupancy Classifications.
- Determine which model code applies to your building
- Determine Occupancy Classifications
- Determine allowable Height and Areas
- Determine allowable Construction Types
True or False?
Always size drainage systems for the most severe conditions.
True
True or False?
The observation of an impending failure would be the very obvious on a steel structured bridge.
Impending failure is more observable on steel structures due to the ductility of the steel. All other options are more brittle materials.
Name some strategies that can provide an increase in over all thermal storage capacity of a building?
Exposing building mass with high thermal storage capacity materials like concrete, stone, brick, water, etc to sun is the best strategy. Increasing this surface area via using strategies like joist slabs rathe than flat slabs can be beneficial.
Phase-change materials (PCM) are also recommended to increase thermal storage capacity of surface.
Floors that are properly oriented to sun exposure have a better potential than vertical partitions when it comes to storing heat.
Trombe walls are also great thermal storage tools however, in this scenario it is risky to increase the surface of them de to risk of losing the view. Increasing the thickness of the trombe walls or any heat storage element is pointless after a certain point. The exposed surface are is much more important than the thickness.
The floor surfaces should not be covered with carpet or insulation materials
To minimize the system noise in large building, choose a central system that is located away from the occupied spaces, such as:
Any all-air system (other than fan-powered): VAV, CAV, Multizone CAV
Active chilled beams
Evaporative cooling
Passive chilled beams
Hydronic convectors
Hydronic radiant heating and cooling can be options for this building.
What causes x cracking in walls?
coupled shear wall effect
What causes lower floors to totally collapse?
weak story-
Which design professionals assumes legal responsibility for the analysis, evaluation, sampling and testing of soil profiles from a deep excavation for a high-rise building?
Geotechnical consultant
**not civil engineer
True or False?
Low solar heat gain coefficient windows provide best solar radiation control.
True
Low-e is the family name of low or high SHGC window films. A low-e window can be either high or low SHGC, depending on the climate or location of the building or the window itself. Generally in warmer climates a low SHGC, window is preferred which controls the heat received in space via window.
Double glazed windows with gas fill is usually provides better insulation, which means they are good at keeping heat in.
Name some solar water heating systems:
Closed Loop Active System: This is the system that uses anti-freezers.
Batch System: Are the simplest soar water heating systems. The main idea behindd batchs systems, depend on direct gain from sun, for example a metal storage tank exposed to sun. This system does not offer an anti-freezing strategy, therefor is not recommended in cold climates.
Thermosiphon System: This is a very reliable, cheaper system that requires less expensive hardware and installation its much easier. It depends on the passive heat exchange via gravity and convection to circulate cold and hot water in pipes.
Drain-down System: this is the most vulnerable system to freezing.
What is the best shading device for south-facing windows?
horizontal overhangs.
-The summer sun will be higher up in the sky and strongly felt on the building’s south facade; therefore, having horizontal overhangs provides the best shading.
What is the best shading device for East and West facing windows?
horizontal overhangs.
-deep horizontal overhangs are still the best shading solution
slanted vertical fins oriented, North or South depending on the climate
(south in cold climates)
(north in hot climates)
**to be effective, shading devices on E/W facades will have to block the view immensely.
What is the best shading device for North facing windows?
vertical fins
When do you need a Construction Joint?
When the surface area is too big to pour the concrete at once.
When do you need a Isolation Joint?
When a complete separation needs to be created by 1/8″ asphalt-impregnated fiber sheets at floor and column junction.
(expansion joint)
When do you need a Control Joint?
When a controlled cracking is predicted in concrete slab, a reduction in slab thickness is intentionally created to provide a weak spot for the cracking.
(contraction joint)
Does the vapor Retarder go on the outside or inside of the exterior wall?
Trick Question
NEITHER
placing the vapor retarder as close as possible to the WARM (HOT) side of the construction assembly is the best strategy
in a warm climate the outside will be warmer than the inside, the vapor retarder should be placed closer to the outer face of the wall - and in cold climates it should be closer to the interior space since it will be warmer than outside.
What is Compressive Refrigeration Cycle?
In this system the heat is circulated from hot to cold by the help of a refrigerant being condensed or evaporated. To evaporate the refrigerant the heat is received from the space and give to the refrigerant which makes the space cool down and when compressing the gaseous refrigerant the heat is released back. Please refer to Mechanical & Electrical Equipment for Buildings, Chapter 12, Section 12.8, Figure 12.24 for the section of the compressive refrigeration cycle.
What is Absorption Refrigeration Cycle?
Uses water as the main refrigerant and lithium bromide as the absorber. It is less efficient. Please refer to Mechanical & Electrical Equipment for Buildings, Chapter 12, Section 12.8, Figure 12.33 for the section of the absorption refrigeration cycle.
True or False?
Heavy timber construction has a higher fire rating than unprotected steel construction.
True
True or False?
Rock wool is a non-combustible insulation material.
True
Name some advantages of central HVAC systems:
Central systems are generally quieter
Central systems are more energy efficient
Central systems equipment last longer
Maintenance of the central systems does not interrupt the daily activities of the users
A location with more cooling degree days means, the building is in what kind of climate.
warm/hot
What are some advantages to rigid frame structures?
Rigid frames depend on extra strong connections at beam, column intersections and due to absence of shear walls and bracing systems, plans can be configured in a more flexible way. So, they provide greatest flexibility in plan configuration, which is ideal for rental buildings with multiple units.
Absence of bracing on facades provides more freedom to the designer for facade too.
According to Structural Design: A Practical Guide for Architects, Chapter 5, the cost of open web steel joists depend on:
Weight of the joist: if the only consideration is cost, weight should be considered carefully
Standardization: the manufacturing of standard design will bring the cost down
The most efficient parking layout for one-way traffic is
75 degrees
one way traffic
The most efficient parking layout for two-way traffic is
90 degrees
two way traffic
True or False?
Heat pumps have the capacity to reverse refrigeration cycle, which gives the same system both heating and cooling feature.
True
According to FEMA Chapter 5, Buildings that has the shape of L, T, H are susceptible to what?
Re-entrant Corners.
usually under excessive lateral loads like earthquakes. The different wings of the buildings with this shapes create different torsional stress which causes failure. Also the different movement on the wings of the buildings, creates a stress concentration at the most stiff part of the building which is usually tend to be the corner or connection point of the wings.
Arrange the following lamp types with the shortest to the longest lamp life:
High Pressure Sodium (HPS) Incandescent Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Metal Halide Fluorescent
- Incandescent (1,000H)
- Fluorescent (7,000H to 15,0000H)
- Low Pressure Sodium (LPS (12,000H to 18,000H)
- Metal Halide (15,000H – 20,000H)
- High Pressure Sodium (HPS) (16,000H to 24,000H)
