This is the second phase of this project as a continuation of Spring 2008 IPRO 317 and will have a focus for Summer 2008 on the computer program, the user interface, as well as completion of the... Show moreThis is the second phase of this project as a continuation of Spring 2008 IPRO 317 and will have a focus for Summer 2008 on the computer program, the user interface, as well as completion of the first geographic area of the scale model. The objective of this project is to design and construct a 3-D scale model for the first portion of downtown Chicago (downtown Chicago has been subdivided into 6 portions). The model will be used to simulate and test the effectiveness of fire defense strategies to address fire or other catastrophes related to public health and safety. This model will include streets, buildings and detailed information that help the Chicago Fire Department in planning interventions, considering various scenarios and case studies. The model is being built in phases, with the overall design incorporating a sophisticated, computer-driven illumination scheme built within the model base. The model thus will be able to display animated scenarios of virtually any depth and focus, by means of time-varying color and brightness. CAD Computer-generated images and laser-cutting methods are the main techniques used to design and build the model, but hand craftsmanship is also necessary. The completed model will be fully modular, designed to transport easily to various facilities. The usefulness of the model thus will extend to many needs of the Chicago Fire Department and City of Chicago, as an educational tool within the department and for community outreach. Possible additional uses for the model will be wind tunnel measurement of pressure distributions to inform building design and City infrastructure needs, as well as the study of urban microclimates and the impact on building energy demand. There is also the potential for this model and its design approach to inform the development of scale models to depict the venues associated with the proposed 2016 Olympics along the Chicago lakefront. This project will include: (1) Identification of the scale, materials, technologies, and strategies for construction; (2) Physical mapping and computer modeling of the downtown built environment; (3) Design of the physical model and computer/electronic components; and (4) Construction of a reduced-area mock-up for final review and approval by the City of Chicago. Show less
