Thursday, December 23, 2010
Sunday, December 12, 2010
The Community Network of Convenience Stores within Urban Design
By Kang-Hsin Fan
-Part Two-
How can the community network of convenience stores make life-places better? How can it connect the relationships among the government, private sector, and the community? There are three typical settlements traditions: the organic tradition, the formalist tradition, and the modernist tradition. The organic tradition is people arrange their activities according to natural systems, such as water courses, land contours, arable soils, orientation, and climates. Second, the formalist tradition is it has studies geometry at its formalistic base, which is an orthogonal grid of a hierarchically arranged street system. Finally, the modernist tradition is it’s a reliable path which depended on modern technology for meeting the needs of 20th century urban society. Modernists arrange a high value on efficient and mechanical details for life needs. It also offers a way to improve health, to bring parks and cultural institutions, and to introduce light and air into habitations. Therefore, what’s the new settlement for using the community network of convenience stores as case within urban design?
Urban Design is not only a big architecture, but also a slow aesthetic art. They are creating and building over many years, decades, or even centuries. It is underwritten by a set of rules and must work with a limited palette of materials-the form, site, mass, and detailed public realm design. In addition, a city is a composition of solid and void elements. In other word, a city is the physical environment in which is consisted the natural world and the built world. These void elements include landscape, garden, park, and so on. On the other hand, architecture and building are solid elements. Green has also become the new goal in the development of Urban Design. Urban Design has to support sustainable objectives by improving pedestrian and cycle access. How to reach this goal? The concept of community network will provide a best method to save land and sensitive areas by building, and create more effective densities. With these issues, iconic buildings will be attractive spotlight for the development of urban design. An effective arrangement for a city’s development is primary assignment. How to stimulate a city’s economy? The exciting photogenic buildings will be the components, which can attract a good press that in turn attracts visitors.
-Part Two-
How can the community network of convenience stores make life-places better? How can it connect the relationships among the government, private sector, and the community? There are three typical settlements traditions: the organic tradition, the formalist tradition, and the modernist tradition. The organic tradition is people arrange their activities according to natural systems, such as water courses, land contours, arable soils, orientation, and climates. Second, the formalist tradition is it has studies geometry at its formalistic base, which is an orthogonal grid of a hierarchically arranged street system. Finally, the modernist tradition is it’s a reliable path which depended on modern technology for meeting the needs of 20th century urban society. Modernists arrange a high value on efficient and mechanical details for life needs. It also offers a way to improve health, to bring parks and cultural institutions, and to introduce light and air into habitations. Therefore, what’s the new settlement for using the community network of convenience stores as case within urban design?
Urban Design is not only a big architecture, but also a slow aesthetic art. They are creating and building over many years, decades, or even centuries. It is underwritten by a set of rules and must work with a limited palette of materials-the form, site, mass, and detailed public realm design. In addition, a city is a composition of solid and void elements. In other word, a city is the physical environment in which is consisted the natural world and the built world. These void elements include landscape, garden, park, and so on. On the other hand, architecture and building are solid elements. Green has also become the new goal in the development of Urban Design. Urban Design has to support sustainable objectives by improving pedestrian and cycle access. How to reach this goal? The concept of community network will provide a best method to save land and sensitive areas by building, and create more effective densities. With these issues, iconic buildings will be attractive spotlight for the development of urban design. An effective arrangement for a city’s development is primary assignment. How to stimulate a city’s economy? The exciting photogenic buildings will be the components, which can attract a good press that in turn attracts visitors.
LST 325
By Scott Fisher
LST (Landing Ship Tank) is a World War II vessel designed to transport tanks and troops during coastal beach landings. Mr. John Niedermair from the Bureau of Ships sketched the basic design of LST during WWII, and with few adjustments the first LST was made. LST’s were usually 327 feet long and “typically had no names just numbers”. There were sixteen shipyards building LST’s including the five shipyards in the Midwest. The purpose of an LST was to carry supplies to battlefield landings and often returned men who had been wounded in action. LST 325 has been brought to a permanent dock in Evansville, Indiana, to memorialize LST landing crafts and their crews, and their important contributions in the United States Wars.
The Structure of the LST 325 consisted of a main deck, tank deck control room, port wind deck, aft crew quarters, tank deck, gallery passage, fantail, LCVP, pilot house, and a main & auxiliary engine rooms. On the main deck composed of light cargo like ambulances, trucks, and jeeps. Mounted on the main deck were clover leaves which lashed vehicles and other big cargo down to the main dock to minimize movement. At the front of the ship was a cargo elevator which was used to move cargo from the main dock to the tank deck which cargo could be unloaded of the ship through the bow doors. Throughout the years of the use of the LST the elevator got replaced with a ramp. Next going closed to the front of the ship are the forward guns and Fire control Director. At this location of the ship, which is also called Anchor Windlass, all of the ship’s forward guns could be directed at a target. Go on to the tank deck control room which is a space where the crew could control various functions of the tank deck including the tank deck blowers, opening/closing of bow doors, traffic signals, and bow ramp. The Port Wind deck was a series of compartments. Those compartments are very similar to each other containing troop berthing areas, lavatories and run the entire length of the ship. In the middle of the compartments was a sickbay. The Aft Crew Quarters was where the entire crew would berth allowing both of the other wings for the soldiers. The enlisted crew would also eat here after getting their food for the dining room above. The hatch in the center of the deck allowed access to frozen and dry food storage and the steering of the ship. Next the tank deck, which was the main component of a LST ship. This empty space is where vehicles, equipment and supplies were stored. In addition to that basic role of carrying cargo to the beach during an invasion, some of the LST’s were remodeled to be floating repair ships, troop barracks, and floating hospitals. Below the tank deck is the engine rooms, fuel tanks, and the ballast for the LST. Moving your way up the ship layout there are different hatches. Inside those hatches contain rooms that house various shops, ammunition lockers, and paint lockers. Across from the hatches is the starboard side is where the electrical shop and machine shop is located. Whereas on the front there is a rectangular shape bow, Bow Ramp, which is held in place by heavy gripes. On the top side of the ramp there are the Bow Doors. These Bow Doors and Ramp works: as the ship comes to the shore the doors are opened by electric motors and once the ship is aground the ramp is lowered with a winch to allow equipment to be taken off or on.
The Galley Passage is where all the meals for the crew are prepared and contains the serving line. The fantail contains the winch to lower the ramp which is attached to the Stern Anchor. This Stern Anchor has two functions: to prevent the ship from broaching which means that it helps keep the ship perpendicular to the beach and secondly helps pull the ship seaward. Moving on in the ship to the LCVP (Landing Craft, Vehicle and Personnel) which is where anyone can get a good view at the ship’s boats, Higgins boats, are platoon boats that carry men to shore. Next there’s a pilot house (Wheel House or Radio Room) where the ship is steered and orders given to the engine room. The Radio room is equipped with the ships communications equipment which is currently still operational. On the last level are the main & auxiliary engine rooms. On LST’s the propulsion comes from the two general motors’ V-12 Diesel engines each delivering 850 horsepower. Electrical power on the ship is provided by three generators, each being powered by inline-6 Detroit Diesel with output voltages of 440 VDC. The places where AC is required, the DC current are converted through use of the Motor-Generator set. Also on this level of the ship are desalination units. These desalination units are voids and all storage compartments of diesel fuel, lubricating oils and fresh water. The ballast tanks can be filled or emptied of seawater to improve the “trim” of the ship; how high or low the ships ride in the water. These tanks allow the captain to adjust the weight of the ship for better sea handling performance and for proper beaching trim.
Image: http://www.cmh.net/~jpvsr/LST_325.html
LST (Landing Ship Tank) is a World War II vessel designed to transport tanks and troops during coastal beach landings. Mr. John Niedermair from the Bureau of Ships sketched the basic design of LST during WWII, and with few adjustments the first LST was made. LST’s were usually 327 feet long and “typically had no names just numbers”. There were sixteen shipyards building LST’s including the five shipyards in the Midwest. The purpose of an LST was to carry supplies to battlefield landings and often returned men who had been wounded in action. LST 325 has been brought to a permanent dock in Evansville, Indiana, to memorialize LST landing crafts and their crews, and their important contributions in the United States Wars.
The Structure of the LST 325 consisted of a main deck, tank deck control room, port wind deck, aft crew quarters, tank deck, gallery passage, fantail, LCVP, pilot house, and a main & auxiliary engine rooms. On the main deck composed of light cargo like ambulances, trucks, and jeeps. Mounted on the main deck were clover leaves which lashed vehicles and other big cargo down to the main dock to minimize movement. At the front of the ship was a cargo elevator which was used to move cargo from the main dock to the tank deck which cargo could be unloaded of the ship through the bow doors. Throughout the years of the use of the LST the elevator got replaced with a ramp. Next going closed to the front of the ship are the forward guns and Fire control Director. At this location of the ship, which is also called Anchor Windlass, all of the ship’s forward guns could be directed at a target. Go on to the tank deck control room which is a space where the crew could control various functions of the tank deck including the tank deck blowers, opening/closing of bow doors, traffic signals, and bow ramp. The Port Wind deck was a series of compartments. Those compartments are very similar to each other containing troop berthing areas, lavatories and run the entire length of the ship. In the middle of the compartments was a sickbay. The Aft Crew Quarters was where the entire crew would berth allowing both of the other wings for the soldiers. The enlisted crew would also eat here after getting their food for the dining room above. The hatch in the center of the deck allowed access to frozen and dry food storage and the steering of the ship. Next the tank deck, which was the main component of a LST ship. This empty space is where vehicles, equipment and supplies were stored. In addition to that basic role of carrying cargo to the beach during an invasion, some of the LST’s were remodeled to be floating repair ships, troop barracks, and floating hospitals. Below the tank deck is the engine rooms, fuel tanks, and the ballast for the LST. Moving your way up the ship layout there are different hatches. Inside those hatches contain rooms that house various shops, ammunition lockers, and paint lockers. Across from the hatches is the starboard side is where the electrical shop and machine shop is located. Whereas on the front there is a rectangular shape bow, Bow Ramp, which is held in place by heavy gripes. On the top side of the ramp there are the Bow Doors. These Bow Doors and Ramp works: as the ship comes to the shore the doors are opened by electric motors and once the ship is aground the ramp is lowered with a winch to allow equipment to be taken off or on.
The Galley Passage is where all the meals for the crew are prepared and contains the serving line. The fantail contains the winch to lower the ramp which is attached to the Stern Anchor. This Stern Anchor has two functions: to prevent the ship from broaching which means that it helps keep the ship perpendicular to the beach and secondly helps pull the ship seaward. Moving on in the ship to the LCVP (Landing Craft, Vehicle and Personnel) which is where anyone can get a good view at the ship’s boats, Higgins boats, are platoon boats that carry men to shore. Next there’s a pilot house (Wheel House or Radio Room) where the ship is steered and orders given to the engine room. The Radio room is equipped with the ships communications equipment which is currently still operational. On the last level are the main & auxiliary engine rooms. On LST’s the propulsion comes from the two general motors’ V-12 Diesel engines each delivering 850 horsepower. Electrical power on the ship is provided by three generators, each being powered by inline-6 Detroit Diesel with output voltages of 440 VDC. The places where AC is required, the DC current are converted through use of the Motor-Generator set. Also on this level of the ship are desalination units. These desalination units are voids and all storage compartments of diesel fuel, lubricating oils and fresh water. The ballast tanks can be filled or emptied of seawater to improve the “trim” of the ship; how high or low the ships ride in the water. These tanks allow the captain to adjust the weight of the ship for better sea handling performance and for proper beaching trim.
Image: http://www.cmh.net/~jpvsr/LST_325.html
Firestone Baars Chapel
By Micah Jacobson
I am from the college town of Columbia Missouri. In Columbia there are three major schools, along with several community colleges. The University of Missouri main campus is located in Columbia, along with Columbia College and Stephens College. Stephens College is all girl school. My mother attended Stephens and received here degree in education there in the early seventies.
On the Stephens College Campus there is a small elegant Chapel in the center of campus, the Firestone Baars Chapel. From the outside it has simple geometry and very little ornamentation. As one enters the building a beautiful environment is presented.
In 1939 a group of twenty young women met with the current president of Stephens College, President Wood. He asked them to tell him what building they would want built if it was to be the last building built on campus. They all answered they would like a Chapel. This began the endeavor to build the Chapel on Stephens College campus. That night they all contributed one dollar and placed them in an envelope. It was placed under the door of the student body president with a note that stated the money was to start a fund to build a Chapel on Stephens College. (Schwarz & Brent, 1997, p. 37)
As the design of the Chapel got underway the student and faculty sought a building that would represent all of their many faiths and be used to reflect a commonality of all of their religions. The design would revolve around the line dividing time and eternity and the relationship of man and God with eternity. The architect chosen for this work was Eliel Saarinen, an architect from Finland, who relocated to the US in 1923. His design was to have a round building with a dome that would cover it. This emphasized the idea of eternity that the students and faculty wanted to portray. There was also to be a reflecting pool that would be used to separate the patrons of the Chapel from the outside world and create a place of seclusion and sanctity. (Schwarz & Brent, 1997, p. 38)
Eliel pasted away on July 1, 1950, seven days after the Korean War began. During this time the College was suffering from a shortage of money. Due to these social and economical conditions the plans for the Chapel where brought to a standstill. During this time the college appointed a new president, Thomas Spragens. In 1953 he was able to commission Eliel’s son, Eero Saarinen. Eero had been working with his father for seventeen years before his death and was branching out on his own
The design was vastly different from Eliel’s; the cylinder was replaced with a cube and the dome with a pyramid. As I entered the chapel I couldn’t help but feel separated from the world. The Chapel is located just off of Broadway, a very busy street, but I found piece and solitude in the Chapel. It is a very spiritual place to go. I found myself looking up at the ceiling, at the wood structure, at the skylight and beyond it into the heavens. The Chapel had a different feeling than other Chapels I had experienced. Being void of any religious symbols it is a welcoming place for all denominations and is used by all. It is a small, very personal, and inspiring space to be in.
The Firestone Baars Chapel holds a lot of meaning for many people in Columbia. My grandfather, Daniel Hall, who was a craftsman, was originally asked to build the Chapel. After the redesign and re-commission he was building another project and couldn’t do the job and another craftsman was chosen. He was able to give me some personal insight into the construction and history of the Chapel. Another person affected by this elegant Chapel was Madeline Grapes (1908-1995). She taught at Stephens College and shared here love with many people, including Dr. Schwarz who was one of the authors of the only document I found written on the Chapel (Schwarz & Brent, 1997, p. 46). Dr. Schwarz shared his experience here and the Chapel to a group of students including myself while setting in it sanctuary. Firestone Baars is a small Chapel that has affected the lives of many people in this small college town. It inspired many who went to school at Stephen’s and many who never sat in a class but just visited the Chapel, sat, and pondered there. I hope more is published in the future to recognize this great Chapel and the great people who contributed to its construction.
I am from the college town of Columbia Missouri. In Columbia there are three major schools, along with several community colleges. The University of Missouri main campus is located in Columbia, along with Columbia College and Stephens College. Stephens College is all girl school. My mother attended Stephens and received here degree in education there in the early seventies.
On the Stephens College Campus there is a small elegant Chapel in the center of campus, the Firestone Baars Chapel. From the outside it has simple geometry and very little ornamentation. As one enters the building a beautiful environment is presented.
In 1939 a group of twenty young women met with the current president of Stephens College, President Wood. He asked them to tell him what building they would want built if it was to be the last building built on campus. They all answered they would like a Chapel. This began the endeavor to build the Chapel on Stephens College campus. That night they all contributed one dollar and placed them in an envelope. It was placed under the door of the student body president with a note that stated the money was to start a fund to build a Chapel on Stephens College. (Schwarz & Brent, 1997, p. 37)
As the design of the Chapel got underway the student and faculty sought a building that would represent all of their many faiths and be used to reflect a commonality of all of their religions. The design would revolve around the line dividing time and eternity and the relationship of man and God with eternity. The architect chosen for this work was Eliel Saarinen, an architect from Finland, who relocated to the US in 1923. His design was to have a round building with a dome that would cover it. This emphasized the idea of eternity that the students and faculty wanted to portray. There was also to be a reflecting pool that would be used to separate the patrons of the Chapel from the outside world and create a place of seclusion and sanctity. (Schwarz & Brent, 1997, p. 38)
Eliel pasted away on July 1, 1950, seven days after the Korean War began. During this time the College was suffering from a shortage of money. Due to these social and economical conditions the plans for the Chapel where brought to a standstill. During this time the college appointed a new president, Thomas Spragens. In 1953 he was able to commission Eliel’s son, Eero Saarinen. Eero had been working with his father for seventeen years before his death and was branching out on his own
The design was vastly different from Eliel’s; the cylinder was replaced with a cube and the dome with a pyramid. As I entered the chapel I couldn’t help but feel separated from the world. The Chapel is located just off of Broadway, a very busy street, but I found piece and solitude in the Chapel. It is a very spiritual place to go. I found myself looking up at the ceiling, at the wood structure, at the skylight and beyond it into the heavens. The Chapel had a different feeling than other Chapels I had experienced. Being void of any religious symbols it is a welcoming place for all denominations and is used by all. It is a small, very personal, and inspiring space to be in.
The Firestone Baars Chapel holds a lot of meaning for many people in Columbia. My grandfather, Daniel Hall, who was a craftsman, was originally asked to build the Chapel. After the redesign and re-commission he was building another project and couldn’t do the job and another craftsman was chosen. He was able to give me some personal insight into the construction and history of the Chapel. Another person affected by this elegant Chapel was Madeline Grapes (1908-1995). She taught at Stephens College and shared here love with many people, including Dr. Schwarz who was one of the authors of the only document I found written on the Chapel (Schwarz & Brent, 1997, p. 46). Dr. Schwarz shared his experience here and the Chapel to a group of students including myself while setting in it sanctuary. Firestone Baars is a small Chapel that has affected the lives of many people in this small college town. It inspired many who went to school at Stephen’s and many who never sat in a class but just visited the Chapel, sat, and pondered there. I hope more is published in the future to recognize this great Chapel and the great people who contributed to its construction.
My First Black Friday Experience in the US
By Bhakti Shah
I knew that the day after Thanksgiving is the biggest shopping day of the year in the US, but I did not know that it was such a big thing. When my husband told me that people line-up in queues for hours outside stores, I hardly believed him. I thought it was an exaggeration. However, the opportunity to clear this doubt came sooner than I thought.
My husband I went to the movie theater on the night of Thanksgiving to watch ‘Harry Potter & the Deathly Hallows’. It was past midnight when the movie ended and we were on our way back home when my husband took me to Target & Best Buy to show me how people line up for Black Friday shopping. I was surprised to see long queue at 12:30 AM because the stores were supposed to open at 4 AM in the morning. The sight of people camping in tents outside shops was unbelievable to me. We saw some people dancing to the tune of music and some enjoying drinks to keep themselves warm.
We then went to the Grand Prairie mall, an open construction mall in Peoria, as some shops in that mall had opened at midnight. I thought that there wouldn’t be long queues in the mall as many stores in the mall were clothing related stores. But I was surprised to see a longer queue at Old Navy compared to that at Best Buy! As I walked through the open mall, I was not able to withstand the cold weather & hence we decided to go back home after some time. We rested for few hours and then woke up early morning to visit some stores in another mall and thus I made most out of my Black Friday outing.
Hats off to the American shopping enthusiasm, which is virtually unaffected, even by the extreme cold weather!
I knew that the day after Thanksgiving is the biggest shopping day of the year in the US, but I did not know that it was such a big thing. When my husband told me that people line-up in queues for hours outside stores, I hardly believed him. I thought it was an exaggeration. However, the opportunity to clear this doubt came sooner than I thought.
My husband I went to the movie theater on the night of Thanksgiving to watch ‘Harry Potter & the Deathly Hallows’. It was past midnight when the movie ended and we were on our way back home when my husband took me to Target & Best Buy to show me how people line up for Black Friday shopping. I was surprised to see long queue at 12:30 AM because the stores were supposed to open at 4 AM in the morning. The sight of people camping in tents outside shops was unbelievable to me. We saw some people dancing to the tune of music and some enjoying drinks to keep themselves warm.
We then went to the Grand Prairie mall, an open construction mall in Peoria, as some shops in that mall had opened at midnight. I thought that there wouldn’t be long queues in the mall as many stores in the mall were clothing related stores. But I was surprised to see a longer queue at Old Navy compared to that at Best Buy! As I walked through the open mall, I was not able to withstand the cold weather & hence we decided to go back home after some time. We rested for few hours and then woke up early morning to visit some stores in another mall and thus I made most out of my Black Friday outing.
Hats off to the American shopping enthusiasm, which is virtually unaffected, even by the extreme cold weather!
Architecture Organizations
By Russ Baker
Wondering what to do with all that spare time as a full time college student? Joining student or professional organizations is an excellent way to keep yourself even busier, and you will thank yourself many times over down the road. The extent to which you involve yourself is generally up to you, granted you pay the dues to keep your membership(s) active. Being a member, particularly holding a leadership role, in a professional or student organization will definitely look good on your resume; but if that is the sole reason for joining, and you remain minimally active, you are only robbing yourself of countless opportunities and learning experiences. Some of the benefits of actively involving yourself in some of these extracurricular organizations are gaining real-world experience; attending meetings and conferences; participating in design charrettes and design competitions; earning awards and/or recognition; receiving updates, news and events via postal mail or electronic mail; receiving discounts on magazine subscriptions (sometimes free), travels, textbooks, and other miscellany; attend various workshops and lectures with guest speakers; and meeting new friends and professional connections. Though I did involve myself in several memberships, in hindsight, it would have been more valuable, personally, had I taken advantage of these opportunities by being more active in each organization. Therefore, I recommend actively joining several of these advantageous groups available to architecture students, some of which offer local chapters or divisions. Here is a list of some of these organizations and their descriptions/mission statements:
The American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS)
“Since 1956, the American Institute of Architecture Students has been the voice of students to the educational system and the profession of architecture and design in North America–and beyond. The association helps to build interest and enrich the educational experience of students (of all ages) and others in architecture and design. The AIAS is an independent, 501c3 non-profit and student-run organization that is more than just a club. This grassroots association is a cooperative between thousands of students in North America (of all ages and academic degrees) committed to helping each other. It provides a sense of community and a forum to share differing views. The AIAS is also a professional organization that is the official voice of architecture students.”
http://www.aias.org/
The American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC)
“Headquartered in Chicago, [AISC] is a not-for-profit technical institute and trade association established in 1921 to serve the structural steel design community and construction industry in the United States. AISC’s mission is to make structural steel the material of choice by being the leader in structural-steel-related technical and market-building activities, including: specification and code development, research, education, technical assistance, quality certification, standardization, and market development. AISC has a long tradition of service to the steel construction industry providing timely and reliable information.
As part of AISC's mission, we emphasize:
o Increasing the structural steel industry’s share of the construction market
o Unifying the industry with a common purpose
o Supporting and improving the ability of the structural steel industry to be both innovative and competitive in a worldwide construction market
For almost 90 years, AISC has conducted its numerous activities with a scrupulous sense of public responsibility. For this reason, and because of the high caliber of its staff, the Institute enjoys a close working relationship with architects, engineers, code officials and educators who recognize its professional status in the fields of specification writing, structural research, design development and performance standards.
AISC represents the total experience, judgment and strength of the entire domestic industry of steel fabricators, distributors and producers. The scope and success of its activities could not be achieved by any one member of the industry. The nation shares the rewards of these activities – through better, safer and more economical buildings, bridges and other structures framed in structural steel. There's always a solution in steel.”
http://www.aisc.org/
Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute (PCI)
“PCI, an organization dedicated to fostering greater understanding and use of precast and prestressed concrete, maintains a full staff of technical and marketing specialists. The Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute (PCI) is the foremost developer of standards and methods for designing, fabricating, and constructing precast concrete structures. It was founded in 1954by the engineers and firms that pioneered prestressed concrete technology in the United States. Today, as the technical institute of the precast concrete structures industry, PCI maintains the “body of knowledge” necessary for the safety, quality, cost effectiveness, and continuous improvement of precast concrete structures. PCI also operates the world’s leading certification program for firms and individuals in the precast concrete structures industry, and conducts a wide variety of educational seminars, technical conferences, conventions, exhibitions, and awards programs.”
http://www.pci.org
The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC)
“The U.S. Green Building Council is a 501(c)(3) non-profit community of leaders working to make green buildings available to everyone within a generation.”
On the USGBC website, you can certify your green building, join USGBC as an organization, join a chapter as an individual, sign up for courses and workshops, purchase LEED Reference Guides, learn about Greenbuild, sign up for e-newsletters, become a LEED AP or Green Associate, and explore green building research.
http://www.usgbc.org/
The Construction Specifications Institute (CSI)
“CSI was founded in March 1948 by the specification writers of government agencies who came together to improve the quality of construction specifications. The Institute’s efforts were essential in improving construction specification quality so that it could meet the demands of the post-war construction boom. Development of specifications best practices, promulgating standards/formats, professional education, and certification were cornerstones of the Institute. The Institute grew quickly to include specification writers in the private sector, design professionals concerned about communicating their vision in construction documents, constructors interested in delivering high-quality facilities, and material suppliers with unique solutions to construction challenges. These construction professionals continue to work together today as CSI members to effectively communicate the designers’ vision, the material producers’ solutions, and the constructors’ techniques to create outstanding facilities that meet facility owners’ objectives. The mission of CSI is to advance building information management and education of project teams to improve facility performance. CSI is a national association of more than 13,000 volunteers, including specifiers, architects, engineers, contractors, facility mangers, product representatives, manufacturers, owners and others who are experts in building construction and the materials used therein. They are dedicated to improving the communication of construction […].”
http://www.csinet.org/
Illuminating Engineering Society (IES)
“The IES seeks to improve the lighted environment by bringing together those with lighting knowledge and by translating that knowledge into actions that benefit the public. The IES will build upon a century of excellence to create the premier lighting community dedicated to promoting the art and science of quality lighting to its members, allied professional organizations, and the public.”
http://www.ies.org/, http://ies.rso.siuc.edu/
Wondering what to do with all that spare time as a full time college student? Joining student or professional organizations is an excellent way to keep yourself even busier, and you will thank yourself many times over down the road. The extent to which you involve yourself is generally up to you, granted you pay the dues to keep your membership(s) active. Being a member, particularly holding a leadership role, in a professional or student organization will definitely look good on your resume; but if that is the sole reason for joining, and you remain minimally active, you are only robbing yourself of countless opportunities and learning experiences. Some of the benefits of actively involving yourself in some of these extracurricular organizations are gaining real-world experience; attending meetings and conferences; participating in design charrettes and design competitions; earning awards and/or recognition; receiving updates, news and events via postal mail or electronic mail; receiving discounts on magazine subscriptions (sometimes free), travels, textbooks, and other miscellany; attend various workshops and lectures with guest speakers; and meeting new friends and professional connections. Though I did involve myself in several memberships, in hindsight, it would have been more valuable, personally, had I taken advantage of these opportunities by being more active in each organization. Therefore, I recommend actively joining several of these advantageous groups available to architecture students, some of which offer local chapters or divisions. Here is a list of some of these organizations and their descriptions/mission statements:
The American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS)
“Since 1956, the American Institute of Architecture Students has been the voice of students to the educational system and the profession of architecture and design in North America–and beyond. The association helps to build interest and enrich the educational experience of students (of all ages) and others in architecture and design. The AIAS is an independent, 501c3 non-profit and student-run organization that is more than just a club. This grassroots association is a cooperative between thousands of students in North America (of all ages and academic degrees) committed to helping each other. It provides a sense of community and a forum to share differing views. The AIAS is also a professional organization that is the official voice of architecture students.”
http://www.aias.org/
The American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC)
“Headquartered in Chicago, [AISC] is a not-for-profit technical institute and trade association established in 1921 to serve the structural steel design community and construction industry in the United States. AISC’s mission is to make structural steel the material of choice by being the leader in structural-steel-related technical and market-building activities, including: specification and code development, research, education, technical assistance, quality certification, standardization, and market development. AISC has a long tradition of service to the steel construction industry providing timely and reliable information.
As part of AISC's mission, we emphasize:
o Increasing the structural steel industry’s share of the construction market
o Unifying the industry with a common purpose
o Supporting and improving the ability of the structural steel industry to be both innovative and competitive in a worldwide construction market
For almost 90 years, AISC has conducted its numerous activities with a scrupulous sense of public responsibility. For this reason, and because of the high caliber of its staff, the Institute enjoys a close working relationship with architects, engineers, code officials and educators who recognize its professional status in the fields of specification writing, structural research, design development and performance standards.
AISC represents the total experience, judgment and strength of the entire domestic industry of steel fabricators, distributors and producers. The scope and success of its activities could not be achieved by any one member of the industry. The nation shares the rewards of these activities – through better, safer and more economical buildings, bridges and other structures framed in structural steel. There's always a solution in steel.”
http://www.aisc.org/
Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute (PCI)
“PCI, an organization dedicated to fostering greater understanding and use of precast and prestressed concrete, maintains a full staff of technical and marketing specialists. The Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute (PCI) is the foremost developer of standards and methods for designing, fabricating, and constructing precast concrete structures. It was founded in 1954by the engineers and firms that pioneered prestressed concrete technology in the United States. Today, as the technical institute of the precast concrete structures industry, PCI maintains the “body of knowledge” necessary for the safety, quality, cost effectiveness, and continuous improvement of precast concrete structures. PCI also operates the world’s leading certification program for firms and individuals in the precast concrete structures industry, and conducts a wide variety of educational seminars, technical conferences, conventions, exhibitions, and awards programs.”
http://www.pci.org
The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC)
“The U.S. Green Building Council is a 501(c)(3) non-profit community of leaders working to make green buildings available to everyone within a generation.”
On the USGBC website, you can certify your green building, join USGBC as an organization, join a chapter as an individual, sign up for courses and workshops, purchase LEED Reference Guides, learn about Greenbuild, sign up for e-newsletters, become a LEED AP or Green Associate, and explore green building research.
http://www.usgbc.org/
The Construction Specifications Institute (CSI)
“CSI was founded in March 1948 by the specification writers of government agencies who came together to improve the quality of construction specifications. The Institute’s efforts were essential in improving construction specification quality so that it could meet the demands of the post-war construction boom. Development of specifications best practices, promulgating standards/formats, professional education, and certification were cornerstones of the Institute. The Institute grew quickly to include specification writers in the private sector, design professionals concerned about communicating their vision in construction documents, constructors interested in delivering high-quality facilities, and material suppliers with unique solutions to construction challenges. These construction professionals continue to work together today as CSI members to effectively communicate the designers’ vision, the material producers’ solutions, and the constructors’ techniques to create outstanding facilities that meet facility owners’ objectives. The mission of CSI is to advance building information management and education of project teams to improve facility performance. CSI is a national association of more than 13,000 volunteers, including specifiers, architects, engineers, contractors, facility mangers, product representatives, manufacturers, owners and others who are experts in building construction and the materials used therein. They are dedicated to improving the communication of construction […].”
http://www.csinet.org/
Illuminating Engineering Society (IES)
“The IES seeks to improve the lighted environment by bringing together those with lighting knowledge and by translating that knowledge into actions that benefit the public. The IES will build upon a century of excellence to create the premier lighting community dedicated to promoting the art and science of quality lighting to its members, allied professional organizations, and the public.”
http://www.ies.org/, http://ies.rso.siuc.edu/
Greenbuild 2010
By Ben Temperley
From November 17 – 19 I had the opportunity to attend Greenbuild in Chicago, IL at McCormick Place. McCormick Place is a huge convention center. I definitely got my exercise walking around the place. This was my first time at Greenbuild. I learned about Greenbuild through the USGBC student group on campus. USGBC stands for United States Green Building Council. USGBC is interested in promoting sustainable building practices.
Greenbuild has a great practice of allowing students to attend for free if they agree to volunteer for 8 hrs at the conference. I volunteered at a recycling station. There were hundreds of stations and each had 4 bins. Recycling may sound simple enough, but one Starbucks coffee cup can comprise 5 pieces which go into 3 different bins. If you are curious, the container is compostable, the lid is a #6 plastic which had to be trashed at Greenbuild, the sleeve is paper, a straw is trash and a wooden stir stick is compostable. I learned quite a bit about recycling and even began to feel bad about how much trash goes into landfills. It is a shame that the Styrofoam cups that places like Dunkin’ Donuts sell end up in landfills. Other volunteer opportunities involved helping people find seats and checking name tags.
When not volunteering, I had the opportunity to attend sessions put on by leaders in sustainable practices. The presenters were all very smart and professional. There were many topics to choose from that ranged from calculating your carbon footprint to urban agriculture.
The convention floor had hundreds of exhibitors. You could spend an entire day trying to see every exhibit. There were great examples of green roofs, photovoltaic glass, rain water collecting systems, insulating concrete forms and water saving fixtures. I liked the toilet with a sink above the tank for hand washing. The water from the sink collects in the tank and can be used for toilet flushing.
I have to admit that my favorite part of Greenbuild was the food. Each lunch was free for volunteers and catered by the convention center staff. The food was all organic. We had lots of healthy fruits and veggies. Even the cookies and potato chips were organic. On the final day the volunteers were treated to some Chicago deep dish pizza. That was probably not organic, but it was very good.
Next year Greenbuild will be in Toronto. You may want to take advantage of the free admission for students while you can. This year in Chicago was a good experience, and I am glad that I attended.
From November 17 – 19 I had the opportunity to attend Greenbuild in Chicago, IL at McCormick Place. McCormick Place is a huge convention center. I definitely got my exercise walking around the place. This was my first time at Greenbuild. I learned about Greenbuild through the USGBC student group on campus. USGBC stands for United States Green Building Council. USGBC is interested in promoting sustainable building practices.
Greenbuild has a great practice of allowing students to attend for free if they agree to volunteer for 8 hrs at the conference. I volunteered at a recycling station. There were hundreds of stations and each had 4 bins. Recycling may sound simple enough, but one Starbucks coffee cup can comprise 5 pieces which go into 3 different bins. If you are curious, the container is compostable, the lid is a #6 plastic which had to be trashed at Greenbuild, the sleeve is paper, a straw is trash and a wooden stir stick is compostable. I learned quite a bit about recycling and even began to feel bad about how much trash goes into landfills. It is a shame that the Styrofoam cups that places like Dunkin’ Donuts sell end up in landfills. Other volunteer opportunities involved helping people find seats and checking name tags.
When not volunteering, I had the opportunity to attend sessions put on by leaders in sustainable practices. The presenters were all very smart and professional. There were many topics to choose from that ranged from calculating your carbon footprint to urban agriculture.
The convention floor had hundreds of exhibitors. You could spend an entire day trying to see every exhibit. There were great examples of green roofs, photovoltaic glass, rain water collecting systems, insulating concrete forms and water saving fixtures. I liked the toilet with a sink above the tank for hand washing. The water from the sink collects in the tank and can be used for toilet flushing.
I have to admit that my favorite part of Greenbuild was the food. Each lunch was free for volunteers and catered by the convention center staff. The food was all organic. We had lots of healthy fruits and veggies. Even the cookies and potato chips were organic. On the final day the volunteers were treated to some Chicago deep dish pizza. That was probably not organic, but it was very good.
Next year Greenbuild will be in Toronto. You may want to take advantage of the free admission for students while you can. This year in Chicago was a good experience, and I am glad that I attended.
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Senses
By Rhonda C Daugherty
The investigation of phenomenology of the sense can only be explain through understanding the actuality of how people experience space while using the senses. For example, Professor Anton talks about sound, sight, and touch as how one perceives space through these senses. Touch as an element that cannot be separated from its source unless the mind uses the eyes to interpret the texture; but it is only through phenomena that we understand why something feels as it does in the first place ( as you touch you are experiencing texture in that instant). Yet vision and sound works differently, Anton uses the example about being in a night club and the listening to the comedian when the waitress steps in front of him. He then notices that although his view becomes obstructed, the sound remains the same. The phenomena of the waitress obscuring his view and yet sound having a completely different affect is how the design thesis investigates and understands the phenomena of the senses.
Ponty defines human mechanism as a way to experience the phenomena of reality. The design thesis is exploring the human condition. More specifically, the element of how people use their senses in an education/ urban phenomena. The human condition is an individualistic social phenomenon. The design, which was introduced by Martin Heidegger, is theory of the social phenomena. The idea behind sensory perception and social behavior conditions will intertwine with each other. How one explores, learns, and behave is social settings relates closely to how one is taught to behavior and initially how one is conditioned to behave. The idea behind learned behavior in phenomena is purely sensory. One visually see’s and then he or she will knowledge. Knowledge is learned and taught they way knowledge has always been learned and taught, according to Martin Heidegger. The consciousness of the learned behaviors, contributes to the notion of socialism.
The investigation of phenomenology of the sense can only be explain through understanding the actuality of how people experience space while using the senses. For example, Professor Anton talks about sound, sight, and touch as how one perceives space through these senses. Touch as an element that cannot be separated from its source unless the mind uses the eyes to interpret the texture; but it is only through phenomena that we understand why something feels as it does in the first place ( as you touch you are experiencing texture in that instant). Yet vision and sound works differently, Anton uses the example about being in a night club and the listening to the comedian when the waitress steps in front of him. He then notices that although his view becomes obstructed, the sound remains the same. The phenomena of the waitress obscuring his view and yet sound having a completely different affect is how the design thesis investigates and understands the phenomena of the senses.
Ponty defines human mechanism as a way to experience the phenomena of reality. The design thesis is exploring the human condition. More specifically, the element of how people use their senses in an education/ urban phenomena. The human condition is an individualistic social phenomenon. The design, which was introduced by Martin Heidegger, is theory of the social phenomena. The idea behind sensory perception and social behavior conditions will intertwine with each other. How one explores, learns, and behave is social settings relates closely to how one is taught to behavior and initially how one is conditioned to behave. The idea behind learned behavior in phenomena is purely sensory. One visually see’s and then he or she will knowledge. Knowledge is learned and taught they way knowledge has always been learned and taught, according to Martin Heidegger. The consciousness of the learned behaviors, contributes to the notion of socialism.
Monday, December 6, 2010
Designing to the Climates
By Shane Healey
Primitive Responses to Climatic Zones
Throughout history, Eskimo and Native American tribes have adapted their lives and shelters to fit the zone in which they lived. The Pueblo tribes in the Southwest, used adobe as a construction material to delay the heat impact on the interior spaces during the hottest hours of the day. In addition, to limit the sun exposure to the entire tribe, the Pueblo Indians placed their structures back to back, limiting the surface area. In the Southeast, the Seminoles had wall less shelters with high grass roofs, allow for maximum air flow. To deal with the South’s high precipitation, the shelters have elevated floors, and steep roof overhangs. In the North, the Eskimos have adapted to extreme cold temperatures. An igloo’s ability to deflect wind, the insulation value of snow, and locating the entrance away from the prevailing winds create an interior temperature of 60 degrees while the exterior temperature is -50 degrees. Combining aspects of all previous zones, the plain dwelling Indians had to design for harsh winters as well as hot summers. In the Midwest, the wigwam’s pole and skin structure gave protection from the wind and rain, as well as created a shelter that was “easily heated from a central source” (Olgyay 5).
Modern Responses to Climatic Zones
These days, there are more modern techniques to achieve adapting a structure to the built environment. In a hot-dry climate, two things must be achieved when designing a structure, minimalization of isolation and the collection of participation. To minimize isolation on a shelter, thick walls are used to absorb the sun’s energy during the day and release the heat during a cool desert night. In addition, “courtyards are used to trap pools of cool night air for use” during the day (McClure 61). However, in hot-humid climates, some techniques are much different. The most critical elements when designing in a hot-humid environment is air movement and shade. To optimize air movement, a structure is elevated from the ground, allowing air to move under the structure. The predominate technique to provide shelter, is the use of overhangs. Due to harsh temperatures during the day and night, structures are generally made from light materials; therefore, not retaining heat. On the other end of the spectrum, exposure to the sun is mandatory in a cold climate. To compliment the large amount of insulation, heat absorbing materials are used to warm the interior during the cold night. One technique often used, is placing a building near large hills, to both block the winter winds and the sun in the summer. In a temperate climate, buildings would be exposed to climate extremes. Due to coming from different directions, cold winter winds should be blocked, while the cool summer breezes are beneficial. Another way to design to various climates is utilizing vegetation. Deciduous trees, located on the west side of a building, can block the sun in the summer and allowing sun in during the winter; however, evergreen trees can be placed strategically to block cold winter winds.
Primitive Responses to Climatic Zones
Throughout history, Eskimo and Native American tribes have adapted their lives and shelters to fit the zone in which they lived. The Pueblo tribes in the Southwest, used adobe as a construction material to delay the heat impact on the interior spaces during the hottest hours of the day. In addition, to limit the sun exposure to the entire tribe, the Pueblo Indians placed their structures back to back, limiting the surface area. In the Southeast, the Seminoles had wall less shelters with high grass roofs, allow for maximum air flow. To deal with the South’s high precipitation, the shelters have elevated floors, and steep roof overhangs. In the North, the Eskimos have adapted to extreme cold temperatures. An igloo’s ability to deflect wind, the insulation value of snow, and locating the entrance away from the prevailing winds create an interior temperature of 60 degrees while the exterior temperature is -50 degrees. Combining aspects of all previous zones, the plain dwelling Indians had to design for harsh winters as well as hot summers. In the Midwest, the wigwam’s pole and skin structure gave protection from the wind and rain, as well as created a shelter that was “easily heated from a central source” (Olgyay 5).
Modern Responses to Climatic Zones
These days, there are more modern techniques to achieve adapting a structure to the built environment. In a hot-dry climate, two things must be achieved when designing a structure, minimalization of isolation and the collection of participation. To minimize isolation on a shelter, thick walls are used to absorb the sun’s energy during the day and release the heat during a cool desert night. In addition, “courtyards are used to trap pools of cool night air for use” during the day (McClure 61). However, in hot-humid climates, some techniques are much different. The most critical elements when designing in a hot-humid environment is air movement and shade. To optimize air movement, a structure is elevated from the ground, allowing air to move under the structure. The predominate technique to provide shelter, is the use of overhangs. Due to harsh temperatures during the day and night, structures are generally made from light materials; therefore, not retaining heat. On the other end of the spectrum, exposure to the sun is mandatory in a cold climate. To compliment the large amount of insulation, heat absorbing materials are used to warm the interior during the cold night. One technique often used, is placing a building near large hills, to both block the winter winds and the sun in the summer. In a temperate climate, buildings would be exposed to climate extremes. Due to coming from different directions, cold winter winds should be blocked, while the cool summer breezes are beneficial. Another way to design to various climates is utilizing vegetation. Deciduous trees, located on the west side of a building, can block the sun in the summer and allowing sun in during the winter; however, evergreen trees can be placed strategically to block cold winter winds.
Sunday, December 5, 2010
Exploring Types of Structure
By Dustin Stoll
One of my favorite undergraduate classes at SIUC was Arc 361 “Structures One”. This class involves a lot of math and calculations, but it is also very important in helping one learn how a building is constructed. Arc 361 is all about steel construction, but the methods of calculation taught in this class can also be applied to later structures classes. John Dobbins is the instructor for the course and is probably the best instructor I have ever had. AND arguably a genius!
Part of the course is the understanding of how different types of structures work. For our final project, each of us was supposed to select a type of structure or structural system in which we wanted to analyze extensively.
I chose to analyze the Fink Truss, for my final project.
Definition of a truss: A truss represents a structural system that distributes loads to supports through a linear arrangement of various-sized members in patterns of planar triangles. The triangular subdivision of the planar system produces geometric units that are non-deformable (stable).
The Fink Truss was first developed by German-born, American engineer Albert Fink in the 1860s for railroad bridges. The Fink design was later developed for use in other types of structures, such as roof trusses.
References:
http://pghbridges.com/basics.htm
http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/207417/Fink-truss
Statics and Strength of Materials for Architecture and Building Construction:
Barry Onouye & Kevin Kane
One of my favorite undergraduate classes at SIUC was Arc 361 “Structures One”. This class involves a lot of math and calculations, but it is also very important in helping one learn how a building is constructed. Arc 361 is all about steel construction, but the methods of calculation taught in this class can also be applied to later structures classes. John Dobbins is the instructor for the course and is probably the best instructor I have ever had. AND arguably a genius!
Part of the course is the understanding of how different types of structures work. For our final project, each of us was supposed to select a type of structure or structural system in which we wanted to analyze extensively.
I chose to analyze the Fink Truss, for my final project.
Definition of a truss: A truss represents a structural system that distributes loads to supports through a linear arrangement of various-sized members in patterns of planar triangles. The triangular subdivision of the planar system produces geometric units that are non-deformable (stable).
The Fink Truss was first developed by German-born, American engineer Albert Fink in the 1860s for railroad bridges. The Fink design was later developed for use in other types of structures, such as roof trusses.
References:
http://pghbridges.com/basics.htm
http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/207417/Fink-truss
Statics and Strength of Materials for Architecture and Building Construction:
Barry Onouye & Kevin Kane
Saturday, December 4, 2010
Clean the Environment Before it is Too Late
By Cray Shellenbarger
Over time, the negative effects of various air pollutants are becoming more evident. There are an overwhelming number of respiratory issues that have been directly linked to air pollution. The causes of said pollutants are obvious and can be dealt with. Automobiles are the leading cause of carbon dioxide emissions in the United States. Laws have been set in place to counteract this problem and yet the problem continues. A series of Clean Air Acts has been in place since 1967. The human have the technology to control the pollution. There are control devices in place such as mechanical collectors and fabric filters. Is this enough to fight air pollution? Where do the Environmental Wisdom and Planetary Management worldviews fit into this?
Air Pollution has been attributed to an alarming number of health problems. One extremely harmful air pollutant is carbon dioxide. Most of the emission of carbon dioxide can be attributed to the overuse of the automobile. The theory of global warming is becoming more widely accepted. The rise in temperature has been linked to various environmental problems. Some of which being more intense storms and warning of devastating floods. Respiratory issues are another of air pollutions vast affects on the planet. According to Wikipedia.com, nearly 4.6 million people die each year as a result of air pollution. Indoor Air pollution is a major contributor to these deaths. Many of the common materials used in home construction give of extremely toxic chemicals. For example, both carpeting and plywood emit formaldehyde, a chemical labeled as a carcinogen. Indoor air pollution is an easy problem to fix. In new construction it is a top priority to ensure proper ventilation to reduce the probability of these harmful chemicals building up in the built environment.
The problem of air pollution is not an easy problem to fix. However, it is simple to identify the causes. As mentioned, the most prominent of source air pollution is carbon monoxide emissions (Wikipedia). The finger is always pointed at the automobile as the only cause. This is understandable considering that every gallon of gas burned in an internal combustion engine results in nearly twenty pounds of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere (Who Killed the Electric Car?). There are, however, many other causes. Some of which include combustion fired power plants, controlled burn practice, and marine vessels. After researching, one will see that the causes are vast and cannot be singled out as being worse than another. This problem is not one whose cause can be placed on and individual.
Although the causes are many, steps have been taken to control this serious problem. In 1967, the United States Congress passed the first Clean Air Act. This act was aimed at reducing the smog problem in the more populated areas of the United States. This act was amended several times in the following years. These acts set a standard in clean air quality to ensure a better and longer life for the American citizen. As a result of this, every car in the United States was required to have a catalytic converter installed on the exhaust system. This device helped keep emissions down and in many cases actually improved gas mileage in American automobiles. Factories were also impacted by these laws. Industries were required to control the waste that was emitted from the production of their products. Many were required to install mechanical collectors such as dust cyclones. Wet scrubbers were also and are still widely in use.
Is all of this enough to counter the damage done to the environment? Many scientists say no. Much more should and can be done. Over time it would be great to see all consumer driven gas vehicles off the market. Battery technology is advancing well, offering longer ranges on rechargeable vehicles. Most of the major motor companies now offer a “hybrid” type vehicle. These “hybrid” cars combine the combustion engine with the use of chargeable batteries to greatly increase fuel efficiency.
There are two opposing worldviews to be discussed. One of which is the Planetary Management worldview. In this view, it is believed that humans are the most important species on the planet. Also, there is no need to worry about running out of resources because humans will develop more. The success of the human race depends on the proper manipulation of the earth to sever us as a race best (wadsworth.com). The other view is Environmental Wisdom worldview. Those with this view believe that nature exists for all species. Therefore, humans are not in charge of the earth. Also, resources are limited. But most of all, the success of the race depends on learning how the earth sustains itself and integrating our actions into that cycle (wadsworth.com). It is essential to find a balance between the two of these, for that is where the best solution lies. As a race, we must incorporate the idea that we can develop more resources with the fact that the ones we have are limited.
The most useful thing that humans have is the environment. If the environment were to collapse, the race would fall. Through laws, regulations, and whatever else it takes, we must fix what has been damaged before it is too late. The balance between the worldviews needs to be reach and used in a productive way. The future of the human race depends on it.
Over time, the negative effects of various air pollutants are becoming more evident. There are an overwhelming number of respiratory issues that have been directly linked to air pollution. The causes of said pollutants are obvious and can be dealt with. Automobiles are the leading cause of carbon dioxide emissions in the United States. Laws have been set in place to counteract this problem and yet the problem continues. A series of Clean Air Acts has been in place since 1967. The human have the technology to control the pollution. There are control devices in place such as mechanical collectors and fabric filters. Is this enough to fight air pollution? Where do the Environmental Wisdom and Planetary Management worldviews fit into this?
Air Pollution has been attributed to an alarming number of health problems. One extremely harmful air pollutant is carbon dioxide. Most of the emission of carbon dioxide can be attributed to the overuse of the automobile. The theory of global warming is becoming more widely accepted. The rise in temperature has been linked to various environmental problems. Some of which being more intense storms and warning of devastating floods. Respiratory issues are another of air pollutions vast affects on the planet. According to Wikipedia.com, nearly 4.6 million people die each year as a result of air pollution. Indoor Air pollution is a major contributor to these deaths. Many of the common materials used in home construction give of extremely toxic chemicals. For example, both carpeting and plywood emit formaldehyde, a chemical labeled as a carcinogen. Indoor air pollution is an easy problem to fix. In new construction it is a top priority to ensure proper ventilation to reduce the probability of these harmful chemicals building up in the built environment.
The problem of air pollution is not an easy problem to fix. However, it is simple to identify the causes. As mentioned, the most prominent of source air pollution is carbon monoxide emissions (Wikipedia). The finger is always pointed at the automobile as the only cause. This is understandable considering that every gallon of gas burned in an internal combustion engine results in nearly twenty pounds of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere (Who Killed the Electric Car?). There are, however, many other causes. Some of which include combustion fired power plants, controlled burn practice, and marine vessels. After researching, one will see that the causes are vast and cannot be singled out as being worse than another. This problem is not one whose cause can be placed on and individual.
Although the causes are many, steps have been taken to control this serious problem. In 1967, the United States Congress passed the first Clean Air Act. This act was aimed at reducing the smog problem in the more populated areas of the United States. This act was amended several times in the following years. These acts set a standard in clean air quality to ensure a better and longer life for the American citizen. As a result of this, every car in the United States was required to have a catalytic converter installed on the exhaust system. This device helped keep emissions down and in many cases actually improved gas mileage in American automobiles. Factories were also impacted by these laws. Industries were required to control the waste that was emitted from the production of their products. Many were required to install mechanical collectors such as dust cyclones. Wet scrubbers were also and are still widely in use.
Is all of this enough to counter the damage done to the environment? Many scientists say no. Much more should and can be done. Over time it would be great to see all consumer driven gas vehicles off the market. Battery technology is advancing well, offering longer ranges on rechargeable vehicles. Most of the major motor companies now offer a “hybrid” type vehicle. These “hybrid” cars combine the combustion engine with the use of chargeable batteries to greatly increase fuel efficiency.
There are two opposing worldviews to be discussed. One of which is the Planetary Management worldview. In this view, it is believed that humans are the most important species on the planet. Also, there is no need to worry about running out of resources because humans will develop more. The success of the human race depends on the proper manipulation of the earth to sever us as a race best (wadsworth.com). The other view is Environmental Wisdom worldview. Those with this view believe that nature exists for all species. Therefore, humans are not in charge of the earth. Also, resources are limited. But most of all, the success of the race depends on learning how the earth sustains itself and integrating our actions into that cycle (wadsworth.com). It is essential to find a balance between the two of these, for that is where the best solution lies. As a race, we must incorporate the idea that we can develop more resources with the fact that the ones we have are limited.
The most useful thing that humans have is the environment. If the environment were to collapse, the race would fall. Through laws, regulations, and whatever else it takes, we must fix what has been damaged before it is too late. The balance between the worldviews needs to be reach and used in a productive way. The future of the human race depends on it.
Friday, December 3, 2010
Future
By: Vince Burdi
Understanding systems and how people work is an important part of what we do here in architecture school. As an undergraduate we are exposed to all parts of architectural design. Here, undergraduates can develop their skills and knowledge of the architectural profession. A strong foundation will always lead to a great building and hopefully a great architect.
In the work place we will be accepted to know how to implement our education to everyday tasks and challenges that will arise. When presented with a problem we should know how to solve it or at least begin to find a solution. It takes time to develop a full understanding of the built environment (world); we as students will soon be heading towards, but we can use our education to problem solve. We will be joining the work force in hard economic times, but as we know in times of struggle the strong survive. So, take this as an opportunity to step forward in time, to define a new principal in which we hold ourselves to. Architecture can and should be part of a new developing future.
Understanding systems and how people work is an important part of what we do here in architecture school. As an undergraduate we are exposed to all parts of architectural design. Here, undergraduates can develop their skills and knowledge of the architectural profession. A strong foundation will always lead to a great building and hopefully a great architect.
In the work place we will be accepted to know how to implement our education to everyday tasks and challenges that will arise. When presented with a problem we should know how to solve it or at least begin to find a solution. It takes time to develop a full understanding of the built environment (world); we as students will soon be heading towards, but we can use our education to problem solve. We will be joining the work force in hard economic times, but as we know in times of struggle the strong survive. So, take this as an opportunity to step forward in time, to define a new principal in which we hold ourselves to. Architecture can and should be part of a new developing future.
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Chicago Cultural Center
By Tara Loughman
While I was in Chicago, IL for the GreenBuild Convention, I was able to go around the downtown area with a friend and experience some of Chicago’s finest architecture. Walking down E. Washington Street, we decided to stop into the Chicago Cultural Center. My first expectations for the center weren’t as positive as one would think, until I first stepped into the building. Once inside I could not believe my eyes; the amount of detail and character expressed throughout the space had me speechless.
The Chicago Cultural Center is located in the downtown loop area across from Millennium Park. Built in 1893, the building was originally designed for the city's central library and Grand Army of the Republic Museum. In 1981, the building then became known as it is today; The Chicago Cultural Center.
The buildings envelope is made up of Bedford Blue Limestone on a granite base with two Tiffany stained-glass domes capping the roof that leave you in awe. Upon entering the 3-story vaulted lobby, a grand staircase, made of white marble, flanks the room’s ornate details. As you begin to walk up the staircase, you begin to see the dramatic and timeless applications used throughout the space. My favorite detail was that of the intricate mosaic tile flooring. The mosaics were made with glass, stone, and mother of pearl tiles. The part that made this my favorite, was not only the tile and its layout, but was the particular pastel-like color mixture applied.
Each floor leads you to exhibitions and or programs that cover a wide range of performing and visual arts. On the third floor, the center was exhibiting a collection of photographs, drawings, and mock models of the late architect, Louis Sullivan. This was very interesting, not only as an architect student, but as a tourist because a lot of his influences were used throughout the city and Chicago’s School of Architecture.
The Chicago Cultural Center was definitely a place I loved seeing. The beauty and history it holds for the city is something I definitely didn’t know about until I was there and I’m definitely glad I was able to experience it.
While I was in Chicago, IL for the GreenBuild Convention, I was able to go around the downtown area with a friend and experience some of Chicago’s finest architecture. Walking down E. Washington Street, we decided to stop into the Chicago Cultural Center. My first expectations for the center weren’t as positive as one would think, until I first stepped into the building. Once inside I could not believe my eyes; the amount of detail and character expressed throughout the space had me speechless.
The Chicago Cultural Center is located in the downtown loop area across from Millennium Park. Built in 1893, the building was originally designed for the city's central library and Grand Army of the Republic Museum. In 1981, the building then became known as it is today; The Chicago Cultural Center.
The buildings envelope is made up of Bedford Blue Limestone on a granite base with two Tiffany stained-glass domes capping the roof that leave you in awe. Upon entering the 3-story vaulted lobby, a grand staircase, made of white marble, flanks the room’s ornate details. As you begin to walk up the staircase, you begin to see the dramatic and timeless applications used throughout the space. My favorite detail was that of the intricate mosaic tile flooring. The mosaics were made with glass, stone, and mother of pearl tiles. The part that made this my favorite, was not only the tile and its layout, but was the particular pastel-like color mixture applied.
Each floor leads you to exhibitions and or programs that cover a wide range of performing and visual arts. On the third floor, the center was exhibiting a collection of photographs, drawings, and mock models of the late architect, Louis Sullivan. This was very interesting, not only as an architect student, but as a tourist because a lot of his influences were used throughout the city and Chicago’s School of Architecture.
The Chicago Cultural Center was definitely a place I loved seeing. The beauty and history it holds for the city is something I definitely didn’t know about until I was there and I’m definitely glad I was able to experience it.
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Taiwan
By Kang-Hsin Fan
Taiwan is an island situated in East Asia in the Western Pacific Ocean. It is 245 miles long and 89 miles wide. According to an official report, Taiwan’s population was estimated at 23 million in 2010. Taiwan’s quick industrialization and rapid growth during the latter half of 20th century has transformed itself into an advanced economy as one of the Four Asian Tigers. Technology industrial plays a key role in the global economy. About 4,000 years ago, ancestors of the current Taiwanese aborigines settled in Taiwan. The Spanish landed and occupied northern Taiwan as a base to extend its commercial trading in 1629. The colonial period lasted 16 years until 1642. Japanese forces entered the capital at Taiwan, and quelled this resistance in 1895. Taiwan under Empire of Japan rule ended after it lost WWII and signed the instrument of surrender of Japan 1945. Japanese culture influenced Taiwan by 50 years.
With its high population density and many factories, some areas in Taiwan suffer from heavy pollution. Scooters are a very common means of transportation in Taiwan and contribute to urban air pollution. According to official public transportation report, there are approximately 13 million motor scooters and 5 million cars as of 2010.
Electrical power generation is nearly 55% coal-based, 18% nuclear power, 17% national gas, 5% oil, and 5% from renewable energy sources. Nearly all oil and gas for transportation and power needs must be imported. Taiwan is rich in wind energy resources, with wind farms both onshore and offshore. To some extent, solar energy is also a potential resource.
Over 93% of the Taiwanese population are adherents of a combination of Buddhism, Confucianism, and Taoism; 4.5% are adherents of Christianity; and 2.5% are adherents of others religions, such as Islam. As of 2009, there are 14,993 temples in Taiwan, approximately one place of worship per 1,500 residents.
There are two phenomena in Taiwan. First one is karaoke (KTV), drawn from contemporary Japanese culture, is extremely popular in Taiwan. KTV business operates in a hotel like style, renting out small rooms and ballrooms varying on the number of guests in a group.
References: http://www.gio.gov.tw/
Taiwan is an island situated in East Asia in the Western Pacific Ocean. It is 245 miles long and 89 miles wide. According to an official report, Taiwan’s population was estimated at 23 million in 2010. Taiwan’s quick industrialization and rapid growth during the latter half of 20th century has transformed itself into an advanced economy as one of the Four Asian Tigers. Technology industrial plays a key role in the global economy. About 4,000 years ago, ancestors of the current Taiwanese aborigines settled in Taiwan. The Spanish landed and occupied northern Taiwan as a base to extend its commercial trading in 1629. The colonial period lasted 16 years until 1642. Japanese forces entered the capital at Taiwan, and quelled this resistance in 1895. Taiwan under Empire of Japan rule ended after it lost WWII and signed the instrument of surrender of Japan 1945. Japanese culture influenced Taiwan by 50 years.
With its high population density and many factories, some areas in Taiwan suffer from heavy pollution. Scooters are a very common means of transportation in Taiwan and contribute to urban air pollution. According to official public transportation report, there are approximately 13 million motor scooters and 5 million cars as of 2010.
Electrical power generation is nearly 55% coal-based, 18% nuclear power, 17% national gas, 5% oil, and 5% from renewable energy sources. Nearly all oil and gas for transportation and power needs must be imported. Taiwan is rich in wind energy resources, with wind farms both onshore and offshore. To some extent, solar energy is also a potential resource.
Over 93% of the Taiwanese population are adherents of a combination of Buddhism, Confucianism, and Taoism; 4.5% are adherents of Christianity; and 2.5% are adherents of others religions, such as Islam. As of 2009, there are 14,993 temples in Taiwan, approximately one place of worship per 1,500 residents.
There are two phenomena in Taiwan. First one is karaoke (KTV), drawn from contemporary Japanese culture, is extremely popular in Taiwan. KTV business operates in a hotel like style, renting out small rooms and ballrooms varying on the number of guests in a group.
References: http://www.gio.gov.tw/
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