Tarlac State University

College of Architecture and Fine Arts

Department of Architecture

RESEARCH WORK

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 FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUILDING COMPLEX DESIGN

Designing a complex structure, such as tall and mix-used buildings, requires

thorough analysis and multiple considerations. Some of the key factors include: site

analysis, local regulations, structural design, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing

systems; ensuring that the design will function efficiently.

I.​ Analyzing the Site and Location

Prior to considering any design, a comprehensive site analysis is carried out. This

will highlight the constraints, factors, and design possibilities of the selected location.

The site's elevation and slope make up its topography. Major hills or dips may

restrict certain designs or necessitate additional excavation to address them.

Topography also plays a key role in determining the drainage flow and identifying any

possible drainage issues on the site.

The landscape features at the site could either be incorporated into the design

or influence whether a design is feasible. Large boulders, for example, might pose

challenges or become key elements in the exterior design of the project. Existing

vegetation can also play a significant role in shaping the landscape architecture

approach for the site.

Analyzing soil composition and stability is a fundamental step in the foundation

design process, as it directly impacts the structural integrity of the building. Different soil

types—such as clay, sand, or rock—have varying load-bearing capacities. If the soil isn't

properly assessed, the foundation may not be strong enough to support the weight of

the building, leading to potential settling, cracking, or even collapse over time.

II.​ Local Regulations

​ Adhering to local building codes and regulations is a crucial part of the design

and planning process for high-rise buildings. Since building codes can differ from one
location to another, it's important to follow them carefully to ensure the safety of

occupants and maintain the building's structural integrity.

III.​ Structural Design

​ Even the most aesthetically pleasing and theoretically efficient designs can

become irrelevant if they lack structural stability. Engineering principles are essential to

ensure that a design will retain its integrity over time, providing long-term safety and

durability.

●​ Load-Bearing Capacity

The design must be able to handle the expected loads, which include

dead loads (permanent weight), live loads (dynamic weight from people,

furniture, etc.), and environmental loads (wind or seismic forces).

●​ Material Selection

Choosing strong, durable materials like steel, concrete, or timber ensures

that the building can support loads and remain in good condition, maintaining

the structural requirements of the design.

●​ Seismic Considerations

In regions prone to earthquakes, structural designs must meet specific

seismic standards to resist the forces generated by an earthquake, ensuring the

building can remain safe and stable during such events.

●​ Wind Resistance

Structures must also be designed with aerodynamic principles in mind to

resist extreme wind loads, especially in areas prone to storms or high winds. This

ensures that the building can withstand potential damage from wind pressures.

●​ Maintenance

Incorporating design elements that make the building easy to maintain

and inspect ensures its longevity. Regular upkeep can prevent costly repairs
 down the road, protecting the investment and maintaining the structure’s safety

and functionality.

●​ Foundation

Tall buildings such as skyscrapers and shopping centers often require deep

foundations for stability. These foundations are necessary to reach solid ground

beneath softer or weaker soil that can't support the building's weight. Typically,

the taller the building, the deeper the foundation must be to ensure proper

weight distribution and prevent issues like settling or tilting.

Pile foundations are long, narrow columns made from strong materials

that are driven deep into stable soil below the surface. These foundations

transfer the load of the structure to the appropriate depth, providing support for

the building above. It is ideal for structures with heavy or concentrated loads, like

water tanks, bridges, or high-rise buildings. Materials commonly used for pile

foundations include concrete, steel, and timber, each with its own set of pros

and cons.

●​ Structural Framework

The structural framework of a high-rise building is a critical element that

supports its weight and ensures stability. Various types of frameworks, such as
 steel and concrete, are commonly used in the construction process. Each type

has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, and the selection depends

on factors like the building's height, location, and budget.

-​ Steel Structure Erection

Steel structure erection is a common choice for high-rise buildings

because of its strength, durability, and flexibility.

-​ Concrete Framework

Concrete framework is also a popular option for high-rise buildings, valued

for its durability and fire resistance.

IV.​ Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) Systems

High-rise buildings rely on intricate Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP)

systems to maintain the safety, comfort, and convenience of occupants. These systems
control temperature, provide lighting, ensure proper ventilation, and supply clean water

throughout the building.

●​ HVAC Systems

In high-rise buildings, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC)

systems are crucial for maintaining a comfortable indoor environment. These

systems are designed to provide consistent heating and cooling across all areas

of the building, while also ensuring proper ventilation to promote healthy indoor

air quality. Typically, HVAC systems in high-rise buildings are centralized and large

air handling units, ductwork, and piping systems that distribute conditioned air

throughout the structure.

●​ Elevator and Escalator Installation

​ Installing elevators and escalators in high-rise buildings is a critical process

that requires thorough planning and careful execution. The installation of

elevators, in particular, is a complex task that involves several stages, including

design, fabrication, delivery, and the final installation.

-​ Traffic Analysis

Elevator system planning begins with computer simulations to avoid long

wait times and crowding. Traffic analyses are used to input building data,

including use, function types, and visitor traffic, into a digital system to simulate
future use. Parameters like elevator type, number of units, and door cycle times

are also considered to determine transport capacities. Simulations can account

for issues like high visitor traffic or elevator failures.

Key figures in traffic flow analysis are the arrival rate, which measures how

many passengers reach the elevator in a given time, and transport capacity,

which indicates how many passengers the system can transport. The goal is for

both to be equal, with an average waiting time of about 30 seconds in office

buildings.

-​ Structural Design Planning

​ After the traffic analysis, structural design planning begins, using data from

the construction plans. Key details, such as shaft, cab, and machine room

dimensions, are crucial. For high-rise projects, two to ten elevator units are

typically grouped together for efficiency. These units are positioned near the

entrance, with direct access to corridors. Elevator cars are designed with nearly

square floor plans to facilitate quick entry and exit.

-​ Express Elevator

In taller skyscrapers, elevators are grouped to serve specific floors, aiming

to reduce stops and speed up passenger travel. Short-distance groups serve the

lower floors, long-distance groups serve the higher floors, and mid-range groups

are used in buildings with 40 or more stories. In buildings with multiple elevator

groups, at least one floor is typically served by two groups to allow for transfers.

-​ Double-Decker Elevators

Double-decker elevators can boost transport capacity in high-traffic

buildings by having two cabins stacked on top of each other, serving two floors

at once. High-performance escalators are installed on the entrance floor to

allow passengers to access the upper cabin.

-​ Control Systems Optimize Journeys

 Group control systems improve the flow of visitors by determining which

elevator can reach a requested floor the fastest, reducing wait times.

-​ Destination Selection Before Starting

Traffic management systems, becoming more common in high-rise

buildings, minimize intermediate stops. Passengers enter their destination at a

terminal before boarding, and the system groups passengers to optimize

elevator usage.

-​ Personalization of Routes

New elevator systems, like those in the Schindler Aufzüge OmniTurm, use

code cards to personalize journeys, ensuring passengers are directed to the right

location. Special features, such as assigning an empty car to a wheelchair user

or extending door open times, can also be customized.

-​ Recent Technological Developments

1.​ Energy-Efficient Hardware

1.1. AC and DC Motors

One major advancement in elevator technology is the shift from brushed

DC motors to more energy-efficient AC motors. Prior to the 1990s, DC motors

were preferred for their ability to control acceleration, deceleration, and

stopping. AC motors were mainly used in freight elevators. However, by the late

1990s, improvements in motor controller technology allowed AC motors to

handle these functions, making them more common in passenger elevators.

1.2. Geared and Gearless Motors

High-rise buildings often use geared or gearless traction elevators. In

geared systems, an electric motor drives a reduction gearbox that turns a

sheave, while in gearless elevators, the motor directly drives the sheave,

eliminating energy losses from the gear-train. Gearless motors are more

energy-efficient, saving about 25% more energy than geared motors, and also
last longer due to lower RPMs and higher torque. However, gearless motors are

more expensive in terms of materials, installation, and maintenance. Despite the

higher cost, more elevators now use AC, gearless motor systems for their

efficiency and longevity.

1.3. Machine-Room-Less (MRL) Technology

Introduced in the mid-1990s, Machine-Room-Less (MRL) technology was a

breakthrough in elevator design. MRL systems eliminate the need for a

dedicated machine room, which was previously required to house large elevator

equipment. This not only reduces construction costs but also improves energy

efficiency, especially when combined with regenerative drives. MRL elevators

are now increasingly common in modern buildings.

1.4 Regenerative Drives

​ Regenerative drives are an important energy-saving feature in modern

elevators. They work by capturing energy generated during braking, converting

it into electricity instead of wasting it as heat. In traction elevators, a

counterweight balances the car's weight. When the elevator car is underloaded

or overloaded, brakes are applied to maintain speed. The motor then acts as a

generator, converting mechanical energy into electrical energy. This energy is

stored and can be sent back to the building or the power grid, reducing overall

energy consumption.
1.5. Elevator Rope

Elevator ropes are crucial for connecting the elevator engine to the cab,

sheaves, and counterweight. Traditional steel ropes are strong enough for most

buildings, but in supertall and megatall structures, the weight of the rope

becomes problematic. As the height of the building increases, the rope's weight

grows exponentially, leading to potential safety issues. In extremely tall buildings,

the rope can account for up to 70% of the elevator’s total weight. If the rope is

too long, it may not support its own weight, risking damage or failure.

1.6. The TWIN System

Developed by ThyssenKrupp, the TWIN system allows two independent

elevator cabs to run in a single shaft. This design reduces the number of shafts

required, freeing up valuable space and cutting material costs. It also reduces

energy consumption by optimizing travel and minimizing wait times through a

computerized system. The TWIN system can achieve speeds of up to 7 m/s (23
 ft/s) while ascending and 4 m/s (13 ft/s) while descending. Often, TWIN lifts are

used alongside traditional elevators for direct, long-distance travel between

floors.

●​ Electrical System

The electrical systems in high-rise buildings must be carefully planned to

provide consistent and efficient power to all areas, including lighting, outlets,

and other electrical devices. The design needs to account for the large number

of occupants and the high power demands associated with them. Electrical

wiring should be installed in a way that ensures safety, efficiency, and ease of

maintenance. Some of the key considerations in designing electrical system for

high rise buildings are:

-​ Load Estimation

The first step in designing an electrical system is estimating the building’s

electrical load, or the power required for its appliances and systems. This

estimate depends on the building’s purpose (residential, commercial, or

mixed-use), occupancy, usage patterns, and peak demand. It also considers

future expansion and the impact of renewable energy sources like solar or wind

power. This estimate helps determine the size and capacity of the electrical

service, distribution, and backup systems.

-​ Service Entrance

The service entrance connects the building's electrical system to the utility

grid and includes components like transformers, switchgear, meters, and

protective devices. It steps down voltage, distributes power, measures usage,

and protects against faults. The design depends on factors such as the power

source type (overhead, underground, single-phase, three-phase, AC, or DC) and

complies with utility and local regulations.

-​ Distribution System

The distribution system is a network of cables, panels, switches, breakers,

and outlets that deliver power from the service entrance to the building's loads.

Its design depends on factors like the building layout, height, zoning, and load

characteristics (voltage, current, frequency, power factor). It also considers

efficiency, flexibility, maintainability, and issues like harmonics and voltage drop.

The system may use different circuit types (radial, ring, network) and voltage

levels (low, medium, high).

 -​ Back-up System

The backup system provides alternative power during outages or

emergencies and includes generators, batteries, inverters, transfer switches, and

control devices. Its design depends on factors like the criticality, duration, and

frequency of outages, as well as the essential loads to be supported (e.g.,

lighting, elevators, fire alarms). It also considers the fuel type and storage for

generators, along with battery capacity, charging, and lifespan.

-​ Safety System

The safety system includes devices and measures that protect the

electrical system and building from fire, shock, and other hazards. It features

grounding, bonding, lightning protection, surge protection, insulation, arc fault

detection, and fire detection/suppression. The design is based on risk

assessments, hazard analysis, and code compliance, while also considering

device coordination, testing, maintenance, and training for occupants and staff.

-​ Sustainability System

The sustainability system aims to reduce environmental impact and

improve energy efficiency through features like renewable energy sources (solar,

wind), energy storage (batteries, flywheels), energy management systems (smart

meters, sensors), and conservation measures (LED lighting, variable frequency

drives). Its design considers the feasibility, cost-effectiveness, and performance of

these technologies, as well as their integration, optimization, and monitoring

within the electrical system and building.

●​ Plumbing System

Plumbing systems in high-rise buildings supply clean water and remove

wastewater. These systems must account for the high water demand and large

number of occupants. They need to ensure adequate water pressure throughout

the building, along with proper drainage and waste removal. Additionally,
 plumbing designs must prevent leaks and water damage that can affect

multiple floors.

Plumbing systems in high-rise buildings are more complex than in

traditional homes due to their height and scale. Here are the key challenges and

modern solutions:

1.​ Maintaining Water Pressure​

Challenge: Water pressure decreases on higher floors.​

Solution: Booster pumps and pressure tanks maintain consistent pressure

throughout the building, while pressure-reducing valves protect lower floors.

2.​ Zoned Plumbing Systems​

Challenge: Managing water for large numbers of residents.​

Solution: Plumbing systems are divided into zones, each with its own pipes and

pumps to ensure efficient water distribution.

3.​ Efficient Waste Management​

Challenge: Handling wastewater and preventing blockages or backflow.​

Solution: Gravity drainage systems and venting prevent pressure issues and

ensure smooth wastewater flow.

4.​ Hot Water Distribution​

Challenge: Delivering hot water efficiently to all floors.​

Solution: Recirculating hot water systems ensures hot water is always available,

preventing delays for upper-floor residents.

5.​ Backflow Prevention​

Challenge: Risk of contaminated water flowing into the clean supply.​

Solution: Backflow prevention devices like check valves ensure water flows in the

correct direction and avoids cross-contamination.

6.​ Noise Reduction​

Challenge: Plumbing noise traveling through walls and floors.​

 Solution: Acoustically insulated pipes, noise-reducing plumbing components, and

proper pipe installation reduce plumbing noise.

7.​ Water Conservation​

Challenge: High water usage in large buildings.​

Solution: Low-flow fixtures, dual-flush toilets, sensor-activated faucets, and

greywater recycling systems help conserve water.

8.​ Green Plumbing Solutions​

Challenge: Reducing the building's environmental impact.​

Solution: Rainwater harvesting and solar-powered water heaters provide

sustainable, energy-efficient alternatives to traditional plumbing systems.

 References

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Elevator Planning in High-Rises. (n.d.). SKYLINE ATLAS.

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11 Design Considerations for Architecture Projects. (2024, October 26). FMP

Construction.

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High Rise Building Construction Process: A Step By Step guide. (n.d.). Dhinwa

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How to Design an Electrical System for a High-Rise Building. (2023, November 16).

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