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Full-Text Articles in Engineering
Quality Of Traffic Flow On Urban Arterial Streets And Its Relationship With Safety, Vinayak V. Dixit, Anurag Pande, Mohamed Abdel-Aty, Abhishek Das, Essam Radwan
Quality Of Traffic Flow On Urban Arterial Streets And Its Relationship With Safety, Vinayak V. Dixit, Anurag Pande, Mohamed Abdel-Aty, Abhishek Das, Essam Radwan
Civil and Environmental Engineering
The two-fluid model for vehicular traffic flow explains the traffic on arterials as a mix of stopped and running vehicles. It describes the relationship between the vehicles’ running speed and the fraction of running vehicles. The two parameters of the model essentially represent ‘free flow’ travel time and level of interaction among vehicles, and may be used to evaluate urban roadway networks and urban corridors with partially limited access. These parameters are influenced by not only the roadway characteristics but also by behavioral aspects of driver population, e.g., aggressiveness. Two-fluid models are estimated for eight arterial corridors in Orlando, FL …
Decisive Disaster Debris Management, Nazli Yesiller
Decisive Disaster Debris Management, Nazli Yesiller
Civil and Environmental Engineering
No abstract provided.
Green Building Policy, School Performance, And Educational Leaders’ Perspectives In Usa, Scott D. Kelting, Michael Montoya
Green Building Policy, School Performance, And Educational Leaders’ Perspectives In Usa, Scott D. Kelting, Michael Montoya
Construction Management
The movement to construct high performance “green” buildings has had unprecedented market growth and continues to become mainstream practice for constructing schools in the United States. Green schools have economic, environmental and health benefits. Research provides information on the use of increased student performance found in green schools to justify building schools to a higher standard of indoor environment quality. There is clear and compelling evidence that schools currently built to specific green standards of indoor environmental quality, (e.g. thermal comfort, indoor air quality, acoustics and lighting,) result in healthier and more productive students and teachers. Current green building policies …
Vibroacoustic Study Of Circular Cylindrical Tubes In Roller Coaster Rails, Joshua I. Davis, Charles Birdsong, Harold M. Cota
Vibroacoustic Study Of Circular Cylindrical Tubes In Roller Coaster Rails, Joshua I. Davis, Charles Birdsong, Harold M. Cota
Mechanical Engineering
Excessive noise generated by roller coasters during operation is a significant issue for amusement parks located near residential and business districts. Previous work showed that filling the rails with sand and pea gravel can provide noise reduction levels of up to 10 and 15 decibels. However, using damping materials may require additional support structures to accommodate the weight increase and, consequently, raise installation costs. This paper presents field results that characterize sound and vibration of roller coasters with different rail geometry and fill. Finite element modeling is used to compute the theoretical natural frequencies and mode shapes of a typical …
Bounding The Probability Of Failure For Levee Systems, Justin C. Hollenback, Robb E.S. Moss
Bounding The Probability Of Failure For Levee Systems, Justin C. Hollenback, Robb E.S. Moss
Civil and Environmental Engineering
An exact solution for the probability of failure of large complex infrastructure systems is rarely obtainable; however the probability of failure can often be bounded. An example of this type of system is the levee system in the California Bay Delta. Large levee systems often consist of many components arranged in series and parallel sub‐systems. There is the problem of defining component (or reach) length, and therefore the total number of components in the system where component length is dependent on failure mode. Methods of bounding probability of failure based on uni‐, bi‐, and tri‐modal component probability of failure are …
Teaching Reliability At The Undergraduate Level, Robb E.S. Moss
Teaching Reliability At The Undergraduate Level, Robb E.S. Moss
Civil and Environmental Engineering
For Cal Poly's Civil and Environmental Engineering curriculum a stand‐alone introductory course called Engineering Risk Analysis introduces concepts of reliability analysis. This course encompasses all the sub‐disciplines in civil and environmental engineering. After five years of teaching this course there are a number of lessons that may be useful to other instructors including; solving a simple example problem using multiple methods, focusing on the normal and lognormal distributions for a quick preliminary solution, using reliability spreadsheet solutions, and allowing the students to develop their own applications of probabilistic tools. A discussion of the course format, references and resources, pedagogy devices, …
Linking Cyclic Stress And Cyclic Strain Based Methods For Assessment Of Cyclic Liquefaction Triggering In Sands, J. A. Schneider, R. E.S. Moss
Linking Cyclic Stress And Cyclic Strain Based Methods For Assessment Of Cyclic Liquefaction Triggering In Sands, J. A. Schneider, R. E.S. Moss
Civil and Environmental Engineering
Contradictory conclusions may arise when assessing liquefaction resistance of sands based on penetrat1on tests and shear wave velocity. To provide a more unified analysis framework, th1s letter couples cyclic stress and cyclic strain based analysis of liquefaction triggering using site-specific correlations between penetration resistance and small strain shear modulus from shear wave velocity using the seismic cone tests. Cyclic strain theory provides a robust lower limit to liquefaction resistance, and analyses indicate that relatively high ratios of small strain stiffness to penetration resistance lead to high liquefaction resistance at relatively low cyclic stress ratios_ The increased resistance to liquefaction from …
Modeling Erosion And Sedimentation Processes In The Chorro Creek Subwatershed To Evaluate And Develop Effective Watershed Management Approaches, Michael Randall, Misgana K. Muleta
Modeling Erosion And Sedimentation Processes In The Chorro Creek Subwatershed To Evaluate And Develop Effective Watershed Management Approaches, Michael Randall, Misgana K. Muleta
Civil and Environmental Engineering
The Morro Bay Watershed, located in San Luis Obispo County, California, covers more than 48,000 acres of land and discharges into Morro Bay through the Morro Bay National Estuary (MBNE). The Chorro Creek Subwatershed consists of approximately 30,000 acres of the overall watershed. The MBNE provides an ecosystem that supports a variety of wildlife, from the common sea gull to the endangered sea otter. The estuary is also home to over 200 species of birds. The operational waterfront of the Morro Bay Harbor was and continues to be a strong supporter to the local economy of the City of Morro …
Improving Model Performance Using Dynamic Evaluation And Proper Objective Function, Misgana K. Muleta
Improving Model Performance Using Dynamic Evaluation And Proper Objective Function, Misgana K. Muleta
Civil and Environmental Engineering
Models have become important decision making aids. Model evaluation (i.e., global sensitivity analysis, calibration and uncertainty analysis), is crucial to improve their prediction accuracy and reduce the likelihood of making decisions that could lead to undesirable policy outcomes. The conventional approach assumes that model parameters are insensitive to season irrespective of the temporal variability of input forcings such as rainfall. This assumption could significantly compromise model performance for low flow seasons and/or high flow seasons depending on the calibration method pursued. This study will demonstrate the advantage of dynamic (seasonal) model evaluation in improving performance compared to the traditional approach. …
Assessment Of Public Perception Of User-Based Fees And Tolls To Finance Transportation Infrastructure Improvements, Anurag Pande, Cornelius Nuworsoo, Adrianna Jordan, Reuben Juster, Carmeron Hunter Shew, Joe Yu
Assessment Of Public Perception Of User-Based Fees And Tolls To Finance Transportation Infrastructure Improvements, Anurag Pande, Cornelius Nuworsoo, Adrianna Jordan, Reuben Juster, Carmeron Hunter Shew, Joe Yu
Civil and Environmental Engineering
With aging infrastructure and declining purchasing power of tax receipts new mechanisms of financing transportation alternatives are gaining increasing interest. Fuel taxes are and have been for some time the primary source of transportation finance in United States. Fuel taxes are fixed amounts that rarely change and which lose purchasing power over time as prices escalate. In addition, improvements in fuel economy can further erode the revenue stream from the gas tax. This study explores the public’s attitude about user based fees collected through tolls that are directed at specific infrastructure projects using the Inland Empire region of California as …
Development Of An Integrated Project-Based Course: A Jobsite Management Class Case Study, Philip L. Barlow
Development Of An Integrated Project-Based Course: A Jobsite Management Class Case Study, Philip L. Barlow
Construction Management
At universities offering professional degrees, such as construction management, some programs are moving towards and exploring alternative delivery methods for achieving the curriculum’s goals and objectives. This paper describes a curriculum integrated course founded in a project-based learning environment applied to a jobsite construction management undergraduate course being taught at a major university. A course overview describing the various delivery methods used (such as lectures, reading assignments, supplemental materials, guest lecturers, lab assignments, technology, and a jobsite visit) is presented. The benefits of course integration in a construction management undergraduate curriculum are emphasized and more fully explained. The unique student …
Retesting Of Liquefaction/Nonliquefaction Case Histories From The 1976 Tangshan Earthquake, R. E.S. Moss, R. E. Kayen, L-Y Tong, S-Y Liu, G-J Cai, J. Wu
Retesting Of Liquefaction/Nonliquefaction Case Histories From The 1976 Tangshan Earthquake, R. E.S. Moss, R. E. Kayen, L-Y Tong, S-Y Liu, G-J Cai, J. Wu
Civil and Environmental Engineering
A field investigation was carried out to retest liquefaction and nonliquefaction sites from the 1976 Tangshan Earthquake in China. These sites were carefully investigated in 1978/1979 using standard penetration test (SPT) and cone penetration test (CPT) equipment, however the CPT measurements are obsolete because of the now nonstandard cone that was used at the time. In 2007 a modern cone was mobilized to retest 18 select sites that are particularly valuable because; of the intense ground shaking, high fines content, and/or the site did. Of the sites reinvestigated and carefully processed, 13 are considered accurate representative case histories. Two of …
Assessment Of State Composting Regulations In The United States, Nazli Yesiller, Samuel A. Vigil, James L. Hanson
Assessment Of State Composting Regulations In The United States, Nazli Yesiller, Samuel A. Vigil, James L. Hanson
Civil and Environmental Engineering
This investigation was conducted to identify the current "status of state composting regulations in the U.S. using an extensive survey administered to regulators from all 50 states. Questions were included regarding: background information on composting: status of regulations: regulatory details including feedstock specific provisions and regulatory framework with respect to MSW regulations: details regarding type, properties, and amount of materials handled by composting activities; outgoing materials and storage of materials; type of composting facilities: initial development of the regulations; level of rigor of regulations: enforcement and reporting requirements; efficiency and level of satisfaction with regulations: permitting fees; and modifications to …
Green Building Policy And School Performance, S. Kelting, M. Montoya
Green Building Policy And School Performance, S. Kelting, M. Montoya
Construction Management
The movement to construct high performance “green” buildings has had unprecedented market growth and continues to become a mainstream practice for constructing schools in the United States. This paper will consider how the results of government requirements for higher performance school buildings may affect the health and performance of students. The research focuses on educational leaders’ perceptions of how they would prioritize green building strategies based on recent governmental policy that requires building green schools. There is clear and compelling evidence that schools currently built to specific green standards of indoor environmental quality, specifically lighting, result in healthier and more …
Shake Table Testing Of Seismic Soil-Foundation-Structure-Interaction, Robb E.S. Moss, Steven Kuo, Victor Crosariol
Shake Table Testing Of Seismic Soil-Foundation-Structure-Interaction, Robb E.S. Moss, Steven Kuo, Victor Crosariol
Civil and Environmental Engineering
This research involves shake table testing of 1g scale models that mimic the coupled seismic response of a structure on a shallow mat foundation and the foundation soil (termed soil‐foundation‐structure‐interaction or SFSI). In previous research, SFSI effects have been quantified through analytical models, numerical analyses, and limited field data. This research is working towards increasing the amount of empirical data through scale model shake table testing. A suite of earthquake times histories are considered in evaluating a 10th scale soil‐structure model using a flexible wall barrel on a 1‐D shake table. San Francisco Young Bay Mud (YBM) is used …
Seismic Response Of Peaty Organic Soils As A Levee Foundation Material, Robb E.S. Moss, Justin C. Hollenback
Seismic Response Of Peaty Organic Soils As A Levee Foundation Material, Robb E.S. Moss, Justin C. Hollenback
Civil and Environmental Engineering
The dynamic response of peaty organic soils is not well understood but its poor competency as an engineering material is well known. Its use as a foundation material is generally avoided through careful selection of project location, or removal and replacement with more suitable material. In certain situations peaty organic soils are unavoidable because of prior land use and subsequent development of infrastructure. In a delta environment levees are often found to be overlying peaty organic deposits, the California Bay Delta and New Orleans levee systems are two important examples. The Bay Delta is in a seismically active area and …
Development And Delivery Of An Integrated Project-Based Jobsite Management Undergraduate Course, Philip L. Barlow
Development And Delivery Of An Integrated Project-Based Jobsite Management Undergraduate Course, Philip L. Barlow
Construction Management
At universities offering professional degrees, such as construction management, some programs are moving towards and exploring alternative delivery methods for achieving the curriculum's goals and objectives. This article describes an integrated and project-based learning Jobsite Construction Management course being taught at a major university. A course overview describing the various delivery methods used (such as lectures, reading assignments, supplemental materials, guest lecturers, lab assignments, technology, and jobsite visits) is presented. The benefits of vertical and horizontal course integration in a project-based learning environment are emphasized and more fully explained. A class survey was conducted over two quarters to assess the …
Traffic Engineering In A Hybrid Format: More Learning With Less Meeting, Anurag Pande, Joe Grimes
Traffic Engineering In A Hybrid Format: More Learning With Less Meeting, Anurag Pande, Joe Grimes
Civil and Environmental Engineering
In the Civil Engineering curriculum at Cal Poly, CE 421 (Traffic Engineering) course is intended to provide students with details of driver behavior, traffic characteristics, and design considerations for addressing traffic problems. In fall 2008, this class was taught in traditional Face-to-Face (f2f) lecture format. Based on the student feedback received at the end of the quarter and success in achieving learning outcomes, it was determined that the course should be more student-centered and there should be a 2-way feedback mechanism between students and instructor throughout the quarter. Based on this evaluation, the course was redesigned and taught in the …
Real-Time Crash Risk Estimation: Are All Freeways Created Equal?, Anurag Pande, Abhishek Das, Mohamed A. Abdel-Aty, Hany Hassan
Real-Time Crash Risk Estimation: Are All Freeways Created Equal?, Anurag Pande, Abhishek Das, Mohamed A. Abdel-Aty, Hany Hassan
Civil and Environmental Engineering
Underground loop detectors have been recently used by many researchers to investigate the links with real-time crash risk and the traffic data. An issue that has been raised but not explicitly addressed in these studies is how the results from one freeway might transfer to another. This study attempts to look at the relationship between crash risk and real-time traffic variables from a freeway corridor (I4 eastbound in Orlando, FL) and attempts to apply the models to three other freeway corridors (I-4 westbound, and I-95 north and southbound). Traffic data used in the study were collected using loop as well …
Effects Of Liquefaction-Induced Ground Failure On Bridges, Roads, Railroads And Lifeline Systems, Christian Ledezma, Scott Ashford, Tara Hutchinson, Robb E.S. Moss, Pedro Arduino, Robert Kayen, Scott Olson
Effects Of Liquefaction-Induced Ground Failure On Bridges, Roads, Railroads And Lifeline Systems, Christian Ledezma, Scott Ashford, Tara Hutchinson, Robb E.S. Moss, Pedro Arduino, Robert Kayen, Scott Olson
Civil and Environmental Engineering
No abstract provided.
Landfill Temperatures Under Variable Decomposition Conditions, Nazli Yesiller, James L. Hanson, H. Yoshida
Landfill Temperatures Under Variable Decomposition Conditions, Nazli Yesiller, James L. Hanson, H. Yoshida
Civil and Environmental Engineering
This study was conducted to evaluate temperature, gas, and leachate data at two landfills in similar climatic regions (Detroit, Michigan, USA and Asahikawa, Hokkaido, Japan) to determine the interrelations between heat production and resulting waste temperatures and gas and leachate levels in landfills under variable decomposition conditions. Significant temperature increases occurred under long-term anaerobic conditions. Stable elevated temperatures under anaerobic conditions were observed for wastes at central locations. Seasonal fluctuations in both temperature and gas existed at shallow depths and near perimeter locations. Placement of an overfill of fresh wastes over old wastes affected temperatures, yet did not significantly influence …
Comparison Of Base Shears Estimated From Floor Accelerations And Column Shears, Rakesh K. Goel
Comparison Of Base Shears Estimated From Floor Accelerations And Column Shears, Rakesh K. Goel
Civil and Environmental Engineering
This paper compares base shears computed from floor accelerations (inertial base shear) and column shears (structural base shear) for two mid-rise, multistory buildings due to a suite of 30 earthquake ground motions. The presented results demonstrate that the inertial base shear exceeds the structural base shear in the median by 10% to 20% and may exceed the structural base shear by as much as 70% for individual ground motions. Therefore, it is concluded that the inertial base shear computed from strong motion records should be used with caution to estimate the structural base shear.
Variability And Accuracy Of Target Displacement From Nonlinear Static Procedures, Rakesh K. Goel
Variability And Accuracy Of Target Displacement From Nonlinear Static Procedures, Rakesh K. Goel
Civil and Environmental Engineering
This paper compares the target displacement estimate from four current nonlinear static procedures—FEMA-356 CM, ASCE41 CM, ATC-40 CSM, and FEMA-440 CSM—with the value derived from recorded motions of five strongly shaken reinforced concrete buildings.This comparison provides useful insight into two important questions: (1) how much does the target displacement vary among the four nonlinear static procedures? and (2) can the engineering profession “accurately” predict the response of a real building during an earthquake event using currently available modeling techniques and pushover analysis procedures? It is shown that these procedures may lead to significantly different estimates of the target displacement, particularly …