Student Works

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Research papers, presentations, projects, and other works by students at Virginia Tech. For dissertations, masters theses, and undergraduate theses, please see the Virginia Tech Electronic Theses & Dissertations (ETD) collection. Additionally, some student works are in Honors College collections.

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Now showing 1 - 20 of 57

Alternative methods of determining the orientation of a stellar camera
Rae, Scott M. (Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, 1987)
Stellar photography has found use in the calibration of mapping cameras and in determining the orientation of the stellar cameras serving as attitude sensors, e.g. the lunar mapping cameras on the NASA Apollo 15, 16, and 17 missions. The equations used to relate the image measurements to the attitude of the camera are the collinearity equations of photogrammetry. These require initial approximations to the unknown attitude angles and the use of an iterative Gaussian correction algorithm. Simpler methods are described which do not require initial approximations to the unknown angles. Two of the methods are modifications of the Church method of space resection and the third is based on the mathematical formulation of a rotation transformation about a single axis. The methods require only two images for a solution. Modifications are given for using the methods with aerial and terrestrial photographs when the camera position is known and two or more control points are imaged on a photograph.
Analysis and design of a triangular cross section truss for a highway bridge
Durfee, Robert Huntington (Virginia Tech, 1983-12-05)
A review of the available literature on past and present uses and advantages of a triangular cross-section truss was made. A span length of 150 feet was selected for study of a truss to carry two-lane traffic over a 30-foot wide roadway. The structural analysis program TRUSS1, written by the author, was used for preliminary analysis of various truss configurations. Several primary bracing, sway bracing, and truss depth configurations were analyzed, and final selection for design was based on least weight criteria. The final design conformed to the AASHTO Bridge Specifications. The design dealt with member selection considering buckling and stress constraints, joint design, deflection critiera, bearings, and secondary stress considerations. The structural analysis program STRUDL was used to check the final design and verify the accuracy and results of the TRUSS1 program. The paper cited 80 references.
An analysis of sedimentation in John H. Kerr Reservoir
Goodwin, Daniel Matthew (Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, 1982)
The report herein consists of a two phase study of sedimentation in John H. Kerr Reservoir. First is a comparison of suspended sediment data, which was collected by a VPI&SU team, to theoretical sedimentation patterns. A fairly good agreement was found. The field monitoring trips were performed a total of ten times between March 30,1981 and March 3, 1982. The VPI&SUdata is presented in graphical form, in terms of the suspended sediment distribution in evidence each research trip, as well as the patterns that were evident at each station during the period of monitoring. The second phase compares historical sediment inflow data provided by the U.S.G.S. to three Kerr Reservoir sedimentation studies performed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The. period involved is from Jan. 1952-0ct.1976. The discrepancy involved is calculated, and possible causes are discussed. In the 24-year period analyzed, only 1.48 percent of the total storage volume of Kerr Reservoir was lost due to sediment accumulation, indicating that the long term operation of the reservoir is not significantly affected by sedimentation.
Analysis of transit service areas using geographic information systems
Satyanarayana, V. G. (Virginia Tech, 1998)
The potential of Geographic Information Systems as depositories of urban Transportation data is growing rapidly. The Transit service area delineation problem requires a detailed analysis of the demographics and other factors effecting the modal split. This project demonstrates an effective and efficient method to determine Transit demand using Geographic Information Systems. A case study was performed using a show case demand model on one of the transit routes in Blacksburg, VA. A friendly graphical user interface was developed for analysis and reporting.
Collision Warning and Avoidance System for Crest Vertical Curves
Kon, Tayfun (Virginia Tech, 1998-05-04)
In recent years, State Road Route 114 which is located in Montgomery County, Virginia, has gained a bad reputation because of numerous traffic accidents. Most of these accidents resulted in loss of lives and property. Although there are many suggestions and proposals designed to prevent these accidents, to date no actions is taken yet. The focus of this research is to explore a technology-based, low cost solution that will lower or eliminate the risk of accidents on this two-lane rural highway.
Cometabolic Modeling of Chlorinated Aliphatic Hydrocarbons using SEAM3D Cometabolism Package
Brewster, Ryan Jude Stephen (Virginia Tech, 2003-05-08)
Bioremediation of chlorinated aliphatic hydrocarbon (CAH) compounds commonly found at contaminated sites has been an area of focus in recent years. The cometabolic transformation of CAH compounds is important at sites where the redox condition does not favor natural attenuation or populations of indigenous microorganisms are relatively low. At sites where the ground-water system is aerobic, monitored natural attenuation strategies will not meet remediation objectives, or both, enhanced bioremediation via cometabolism is an option. Models are needed to simulate cometabolism in an effort to improve performance and design. The SEAM3D Cometabolism Package was designed to address this need. The objective of this report is to model field data to determine the ability of SEAM3D to simulate the performance of cometabolism. A ground-water flow and transport model was designed based on reported parameters used in the field experiments at Moffett Field. Electron donor and acceptor breakthrough curves were also simulated in an effort to calibrate the model. Several data sets describing the cometabolism of CAHs were used in the cometabolism modeling for calibration to field data. The cometabolism modeling showed areas of best fit calibration with modification to the model parameters reported for the pilot tests at Moffett Field. The overall performance of the SEAM3D Cometabolism Package described in this report establishes validation of the model using field experiment results from the literature. Additional model validation is recommended for other contaminants.
Comparing the accuracy and efficiency of algorithms for converting cartesian to geodetic coordinates
Voll, Robert W. (Virginia Tech, 1990)
A computer program written in PASCAL code was formulated for testing conversion algorithms for efficiency and accuracy. seven direct methods and seven iterative methods were chosen for comparison. Representations of the latest algorithms as well as those no longer in popular use were employed in the test. Of the 14 methods tested, results show Bowring's 1976 iterative procedure to be the most accurate.
Computer Program for the Analysis of Loads on Buildings Using the ASCE 7-93 Standard Minimum Design Loads on Buildings and Other Structures
Browning, Stephen E. (Virginia Tech, 1998-04-27)
A computer program for the analysis of loads on buildings is developed. The program determines wind loads, earthquake loads, and snow loads according to the ASCE 7-93 Standard Minimum Design Loads for Buildings and Other Structures (ASCE 7-93). The program is developed using the object-oriented programming methodology and runs on the Microsoft Windows 95 graphical environment. It is a valuable and useful tool for determining loads on buildings.
Computer software to calculate the systematic coordinate differences between two geodetic datums
Besecky, Edward Joseph (Virginia Tech, 1990-12-03)
The high degree of accuracy now found using GPS observation techniques has led to worldwide acceptance of the geocentric datums, specifically the WGS84 datum as the mainstay for referencing in the geodetic community. Nevertheless, local datums are non-geocentric and if we want to use GPS on their positions, some disagreement will result. This report presents PC-based software to transform coordinates between any two arbitrary datums. Transformations between NAD27 and NAD83 are used as examples expanded with the development of maps which illustrate shifts between those two datums in Latitude, Longitude, and Geoidal Height. It should be stressed that these transformations are based upon the standard seven parameters (3 shifts, 3 rotations, and scale change) and changes in the semimajor axis and the flattening including second partial differentials. This software does not take into account any random distortions that may be present in the datum coordinates.
Connection limit states design teaching aid
Kerr, Robert A. (Virginia Tech, 1994-07-15)
Steel connection design is one area in structural steel design courses that is not always thoroughly addressed. This report attempts to address this area of steel design at a basic level. Its purpose is to be used as a teaching aid for a structural steel design course, and to familiarize students with connection design and its associated strength limit states. Limit states for steel connection design have been covered using both AISC ASD and LRFD Specifications. However, all included connection design examples used only LRFD limit states. Wherever possible all limit state calculations are accompanied by printouts from a knowledge-based expert system, CONXPRT. Typical building connection limit states are covered by way of an accompanying steel structure, which includes many of the connections, in order for students to receive an adequate grasp of both simple framing and moment connections. The purpose of this steel "sculpture" is to actively reinforce the students' understanding of the basic building connections seen in industry today.
Cost tracking and productivity reporting
Husson, David Edward (Virginia Tech, 1987-08-05)
The objective of this report is to examine the need for an on-site computerized cost control system in the construction industry. The background of the construction industry leading to the need for such a system is discussed. The report then covers the technologies available for cost tracking and productivity reporting. Finally, a solution to the problem involving the reports and information required for the compilation of the reports as well as a model cost tracking and productivity reporting system are discussed.
Defining the I-81 corridor boundary based on its influence to attract highway trips
Sawyer, Michael B. (Virginia Tech, 1996)
Corridor coalitions have provided the necessary framework for the deployment of Intelligent Transportation Systems on a corridor-wide basis. The new federal transportation bill of 1997 is projected to support this type of planning application well into the next century, and there will be a growing need to define corridor boundaries as more coalitions are formed. A methodology to set these corridor boundaries quickly and without elaborate data collection is necessary as planners begin to analyze a particular corridor’s needs. The proposed methodology presented within this report uses shortest path criteria and macroscopic traveler modal choice to fulfill these requirements and defines the potential market of users for I-81. Since origin-destination data is not readily available, the geographic location of cities in relation to a particular interstate highway becomes important as one defines the interstate’s influence upon a particular city to attract trips. In this study, the criteria for a major origin or destination to be included in the corridor are based upon three parameters: City size must be over 50,000 in population The Origin - Destination (O-D) pair must use I-81 O-D pair must be within the shortest path distance of 368 miles By using the proposed methodology to define the corridor boundary, 85% of the automobile travel and approximately 78% of the truck travel have an origin or destination within the corridor boundary. Future research and validation of this boundary definition needs to be performed before this definition can be fully accepted.
Design of a multi-span plate girder highway bridge using LRFD bridge specifications
Easter, Scott F. (Virginia Tech, 1993-12-05)
The design of the superstructure of a multi-span plate girder bridge was performed using the new AASHTOILRFD bridge specifications. The bridge was composed of three continuous spans of 100'-120'-100' designed to carry interstate traffic over a relatively wide river. The roadway width was 44'-0" and the girder spacing was 8'- 0". The design was composite in both the positive and negative moment regions. The report includes a review of the loading criteria for the new specifications which are relevant to the project. Comparisons are made between the current 1992 AASHTO requirements and the new AASHTOILRFD requirements. The project includes a detailed analysis of the loads and the moment and shear envelopes. Finally, the design, in accordance with the new specifications, is presented along with drawings and conclusions.
The design of column base anchorages for shear and tension
Applegate, Steven M. (Virginia Tech, 1991-07-03)
A unified and consistent design procedure is proposed for column base anchorages loaded in shear and tension. A literature review of previous work was done to identify discrepancies. A design procedure for anchorages loaded in shear, tension and combined shear and tension was developed which attempted to coordinate c;lnd resolve the discrepancies in previous work. A design methodology utilizing shear lugs was developed. The overall design procedure is for column bases loaded in shear and tension and uses two design methods: Method 1: Headed anchor bolts are used to resist both shear and tension Loads. Method 2: A shear lug welded to the bottom of the base plate resists shear loads and the headed anchor bolts resist only tension loads. The proposed design method differs form the design method used by Shipp and Haninger (Reference 23) as follows: 1. The proposed procedure incorporates both shear and tension design stress based on the ultimate strength of the anchor bolts times a reduction factor. 2. Separate capacity reduction factors are introduced for shear and tension. 3. The use of shear lugs is incorporated in the proposed design. 4. The incorrect use of the "shear-friction" concept is noted and not used in the design. 5. The safety factor for the required embedment depth is applied to the projected area of the failure cone not the embedment depth of the bolt. Several design examples are presented using the two methods. A computer program (using Microsoft QuickBasic 4.0) has also been developed using the proposed design procedure.
The design of graphical output interface for the runway exit design interactive model
Sadam, Chalapathirao Kishan (Virginia Tech, 1990-01-31)
The acceptance rate of a runway at an airport can be considerably increased by proper location of high-speed exit taxiways along the runway downrange. The location, geometry and the exit angle of these high-speed exit taxiways play a crucial role in the successful negotiation of the turnoff and in reducing the runway occupancy times. This reduction in ROT increases the acceptance rate of a runway and thereby increasing the capacity of the airport. Research was done to approximate the radius of curvature with the aid of a compound curve rather than a single curve for the exit taxiway. In the past studies, researchers did not lay much emphasis on the presentation of the results of the model developed. This project has been envisioned to present the output provided by the “Runway Exit Design Interactive Model” to the analyst in such a manner that improvement, analysis and the design of a new runway can be done with the aid of interactive screens provided in the output phase. The analyst may perform sensitivity analysis, compare the centerline turnoff geometries and view the change in runway occupancy times for each aircraft, for different turnoffs and for different runway surface conditions. A general description of the model, the output interface and the exit taxiway geometry built with a compound curve is also included.
The design of spoil banks and hollow fills for surface mining
Beggs, Duane (Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, 1979)
no abstract provided by author
Developing a Testbed for Evaluating the Impacts of Truck Performances on Surrounding Traffic
Martin, Francis Justin (Virginia Tech, 1999-03-15)
The high percentage of trucks combined with the mountainous terrain along the I-81 corridor in the state of Virginia has resulted in significant capacity reduction and delay increases. Different alternatives are being considered in order to alleviate the capacity impacts of trucks along I-81. These alternatives may include adding lanes along grade sections, reducing grade through a re-alignment of the interstate, considering alternate modes for transporting goods, or even reducing the number of trucks on the interstate during peak periods. The evaluation of these alternative measures requires a sophisticated evaluation tool that not only captures the dynamics of trucks as they travel along grades, but also accurately captures the formation of shockwaves behind these trucks. This project demonstrates the effectiveness of the INTEGRATION model as such an evaluation tool through the modeling of a 30-mile segment of I-81 between Roanoke and Christiansburg. Initial simulation results indicate that trucks experience delays that exceed light vehicle delays by as much as 18%. The results obtained showed that the 100 lb/hp truck was the most economical. The 100 lb/hp truck gave the best average travel time followed by the 200 lb/hp, combined, and 300 lb/hp trucks, which were represented by an increase that ranged from 16% to 63% for the AM peak traffic, and 26% to 120% for the PM peak. There were a total of 8085 vehicles discharged during the AM peak as opposed to the 10060 vehicles that were discharged during the PM peak, a 24% increase over the AM peak.
Development of a Computerized Version of the Universal Soil Loss Equation and the USGS Pollutant Loading Functions
Espiritu, Kenneth (Virginia Tech, 1997-06-11)
A computerized program of soil loss and pollutant loading equations was developed in a Windows PC environment. The program implements the Universal Soil Loss Equation (USLE), the Modified Universal Soil Loss Equation (MUSLE), Roehl's sediment delivery ratio equation, and a sediment delivery ratio equation based on both the USLE and the MUSLE. Also implemented into the program were ten pollutant loading equations based on the USGS Nationwide Regression Equations (NRE) for predicting water quality in urban runoff. The programs developed here will become a part of the Virginia Tech/Penn State Urban Hydrology Model (VT-PSUHM).
Energy dissipator devices
Rezvani, Mohamad A. (Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, 1983)
no abstract provided by author
Evaluation and comparison of a non-seismic design and seismic design for a low rise office building
Martin, David N. (Virginia Tech, 1993)
This project was conducted to examine seismic design requirements in areas of low seismic activity. To accomplish this study two designs of a hypothetical four story office building were completed. The first design was completed for gravity and wind loads. The second design was completed for gravity and seismic forces. Comparisons of both designs were made to examine differences in member sizes, support conditions and the design of fully restrained connections.

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Browsing Student Works by Department "Civil Engineering"

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