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Excellence in Facilities Management

“By much slothfulness the building decayeth; and through idleness of the hands the house droppeth through.” 
 — Ecclesiastes 10:18

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Graduation, Dating, Engagements, Weddings, Births & Obituaries


‘In the end, it is character that decides . things, not intellect alone.’ (C.P. Snow, ‘The Masters’, 1951)


Michigan State University

t5rtrtr

Weddings

 



Nine years later and first day as husband and wife they got to finally sneak a kiss in one of the first places they ever passed notes

Hun School Of Princeton

“…I have spread my dreams under your feet; Tread softly because you tread on my dreams.” –W.B. Yeats | ‘He Wishes for the Cloths of Heaven’

“Nature’s Masterpiece”

Several colleges and universities have “kissing benches” or similar traditions tied to romance on campus.

Michigan State University Beaumont Tower: Nick and Myra Kanillopoulos

Syracuse University. Kissing Bench: This bench on the Quad is steeped in tradition. Legend has it that if a couple kisses on the bench, they will eventually marry. Conversely, if a single person sits there alone, they risk staying single forever.

University of Idaho.  Hello Walk and Kissing Rock: While not a bench, this area on campus features a large rock where students have historically kissed. It’s a romantic tradition for couples at the university.

Florida State University Kissing Bench

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Clemson University Lover’s Lane

Illinois State University

University of Cambridge: St. John’s College Bridge of Sighs

University of Oxford: The Bridge of Sighs

University of Bath Somerset County: Sham Castle

Weddings

“Faith of our Fathers”

Home

“Faith of Our Fathers” is a hymn written in 1849 by Frederick William Faber, a Catholic priest, to honor the steadfast faith of Catholic martyrs, particularly in England during times of persecution. Set to the tune “St. Catherine,” it celebrates the enduring legacy of faith passed down through generations, emphasizing resilience against adversity. The lyrics reflect themes of sacrifice, courage, and devotion, urging believers to uphold their faith despite challenges.

Originally Catholic, the hymn has been adapted by various Christian denominations, symbolizing a universal call to remain steadfast in spiritual conviction, inspired by ancestral faithfulness.

Standards Illinois

Parable of the Wedding Banquet

Matthew 22:1-14 KJV | Word on Fire

Standards Illinois | Sacred Spaces | Sending Out Workers for the Vineyard

What is Happening to the Family, and Why?

Family Names

BSI Group: The Role of Standards in Shaping Careers and a Fairer Future

Growth for tech innovation in Bristol as Future Space expands

“Immoderate Greatness: Why Civilizations Fail, and Apologies to the Grandchildren” | William Ophuls

…”Your children are not your children.
They are the sons and daughters of Life’s longing for itself.
They come through you but not from you,
And though they are with you yet they belong not to you.
You may give them your love but not your thoughts,
For they have their own thoughts.
You may house their bodies but not their souls,
For their souls dwell in the house of tomorrow,
which you cannot visit, not even in your dreams…”

Observatories & Planetariums

 

“I know that I am mortal by nature, and ephemeral;

but when I trace at my pleasure the windings to and fro of the heavenly bodies,

I no longer touch Earth with my feet:

I stand in the presence of Zeus himself and take my fill of ambrosia.”

— Ptolemy, “Mathematike Syntaxis” 150 A.D

 

Galileo Demonstrating His Telescope In 1609

Planetariums in schools and colleges play a central in enhancing astronomy and astrophysics education. They provide immersive experiences that can ignite students’ interest and curiosity about the universe, making complex astronomical concepts more comprehensible and engaging.  Observatories do much that but with direct access to telescopes and other observational tools — frequently away from campus — thus allowing them to engage in hands-on learning and real-time data collection.

Establishing research and teaching programs present special occupancy challenges. The cost of high-quality telescopes and equipment, along with the need for a suitable location with minimal light pollution, can be substantial. Additionally, schools require trained staff to guide students in using the equipment and interpreting data. Weather conditions and geographical location also impact the effectiveness of observatories. Despite these hurdles, the educational value of observatories is immense, providing students with unique opportunities to explore the universe and cultivate a passion for scientific inquiry.

Today we examine both occupancies using our SAFER-SIMPLER-LOWER COST-LONGER LASTING discipline.  Use the login credentials at the upper right of our home page at the usual hour.

Purdue University: Grand Universe planning liftoff in Hamilton County

The International Building Code includes various sections that address safety requirements relevant to observatories and planetariums. Key parts of the IBC that cover these requirements include:

  1. Chapter 3: Use and Occupancy Classification
    • Section 303: Assembly Group A. Planetariums and observatories often fall under Assembly Group A due to their function as places where people gather for educational and entertainment purposes. Specific occupancy types and associated requirements will be detailed here.
  2. Chapter 4: Special Detailed Requirements Based on Use and Occupancy
    • Section 410: Stages, Platforms, and Technical Production Areas. While not specific to planetariums, this section provides guidance on assembly spaces, which may be applicable to the design and safety considerations for the auditorium areas in planetariums.
  3. Chapter 11: Accessibility
    • Section 1103: Scoping Requirements. This section ensures that buildings are accessible to individuals with disabilities, which is crucial for public facilities like planetariums and observatories.
    • Section 1104: Accessible Routes. Requirements for accessible paths to ensure ease of access to and within the facility.
  4. Chapter 12: Interior Environment
    • Section 1203: Ventilation. Adequate ventilation is essential in enclosed spaces like planetariums to ensure air quality and comfort.
    • Section 1205: Lighting. Ensuring appropriate lighting levels and types, which is crucial in areas like control rooms and observational spaces.
  5. Chapter 15: Roof Assemblies and Rooftop Structures
    • Section 1509: Rooftop Structures. Covers the installation and safety of rooftop observatories, which can include structural requirements and access considerations.
  6. Chapter 16: Structural Design
    • Section 1604: General Design Requirements. Ensures that the structure can support both the static and dynamic loads associated with heavy equipment like telescopes.
    • Section 1607: Live Loads. Specific load requirements for observatory equipment and public assembly areas.

These chapters collectively ensure that planetariums and observatories are designed and constructed with safety, accessibility, and functionality in mind. For detailed information, it is recommended to refer to the latest edition of the IBC and consult with a professional knowledgeable in building codes and standards.

Denison receives major gift to transform planetarium


Designing and building a telescope for teaching and light research at a college or university requires a detailed consideration of both the telescope itself and the supporting infrastructure. Here are the central architectural features:

Telescope Structure:

  1. Optical System:
    • Aperture Size: A medium to large aperture (typically 0.5 to 1.5 meters) to gather sufficient light for educational and light research purposes.
    • Type of Telescope: Reflecting (Newtonian, Cassegrain, or Ritchey-Chrétien) or refracting telescope, chosen based on specific educational and research needs.
    • Mount: A sturdy, precise mount (equatorial or alt-azimuth) to support the telescope and ensure smooth tracking of celestial objects.
  2. Enclosure:
    • Dome or Roll-Off Roof: A protective structure to house the telescope, with a retractable roof or dome to allow for unobstructed viewing.
    • Material: Weather-resistant materials such as aluminum or fiberglass, designed to protect the telescope from the elements.
  3. Control Systems:
    • Computerized Controls: For automatic tracking and alignment of celestial objects, often including software for scheduling and managing observations.
    • Remote Operation Capabilities: Allowing students and researchers to control the telescope remotely for data collection and analysis.

Support Infrastructure:

  1. Observation Deck:
    • Viewing Platforms: Elevated platforms around the telescope for students to observe through the telescope and participate in hands-on learning.
    • Safety Features: Railings and non-slip surfaces to ensure safety during nighttime observations.
  2. Control Room:
    • Location: Adjacent to the telescope enclosure, with visibility to the telescope for direct supervision.
    • Equipment: Computers, monitors, data storage, and communication equipment to control the telescope and process observational data.
  3. Classroom and Lab Spaces:
    • Multipurpose Rooms: For lectures, demonstrations, and data analysis related to astronomy and telescope use.
    • Laboratory Equipment: Spectrometers, cameras, photometers, and other instruments for conducting light research and analyzing data collected from the telescope.
  4. Data Processing and Storage:
    • Computing Facilities: High-performance computers and software for analyzing astronomical data.
    • Data Storage Solutions: Secure and scalable storage for large volumes of observational data.
  5. Accessibility Features:
    • Elevators and Ramps: To provide access to all areas of the facility, including the observation deck and control room.
    • Adapted Equipment: Adjustable eyepieces and controls to accommodate users with disabilities.
  6. Lighting:
    • Red Lighting: Low-intensity red lights for night-time use to preserve night vision while allowing safe movement.
    • Exterior Lighting: Shielded lighting around the facility to minimize light pollution and ensure optimal observing conditions.

By integrating these architectural features, a college or university can create a functional and effective observatory that supports both teaching and light research in astronomy.

University of Michigan | Detroit Observatory

Designing and building a planetarium for public use involves careful consideration of various architectural features to ensure functionality, aesthetics, and a positive visitor experience. Here are the central architectural features required:

  1. Dome Structure:
    • Shape and Size: The dome must be a perfect hemisphere to provide an unobstructed view of the projected sky. The size should be large enough to accommodate the intended audience while ensuring good visibility from all seating positions.
    • Material: Typically constructed from aluminum or fiberglass, with an inner surface coated to enhance the projection quality.
  2. Projection System:
    • Projectors: High-resolution digital projectors or traditional optical-mechanical projectors are essential for displaying realistic night skies, astronomical phenomena, and educational shows.
    • Sound System: High-quality surround sound systems to complement visual projections, enhancing the immersive experience.
  3. Seating Arrangement:
    • Tilted Seats: Reclined and tiered seating ensures all viewers have an unobstructed view of the dome.
    • Accessibility: Include spaces for wheelchairs and accessible seating to accommodate all visitors.
  4. Control Room:
    • Location: Typically located at the rear or side of the planetarium for ease of access and control.
    • Equipment: Houses computers, projection equipment, sound systems, and control panels for show operations.
  5. Entrance and Exit Points:
    • Flow Management: Design multiple entrances and exits to manage the flow of visitors efficiently and safely, avoiding congestion.
    • Accessibility: Ensure entrances and exits are accessible for all, including ramps and elevators as needed.
  6. Lobby and Reception Area:
    • Ticketing and Information Desks: Central area for purchasing tickets, obtaining information, and gathering before shows.
    • Displays and Exhibits: Interactive exhibits and displays related to astronomy and science to engage visitors while they wait.
  7. Lighting:
    • Adjustable Lighting: Capability to control lighting levels to facilitate different show requirements, including complete darkness for optimal viewing.
    • Safety Lighting: Emergency lighting and pathway lights for safe movement in low-light conditions.
  8. Climate Control:
    • HVAC Systems: Efficient heating, ventilation, and air conditioning to maintain a comfortable environment for visitors and protect sensitive equipment.
  9. Acoustic Design:
    • Soundproofing: Proper insulation and soundproofing to ensure external noise does not disrupt shows and internal sound is clear.
    • Acoustic Treatment: Materials and design features to enhance sound quality and reduce echoes within the dome.
  10. Educational and Interactive Spaces:
    • Classrooms and Labs: Spaces for educational programs, workshops, and hands-on activities related to astronomy.
    • Interactive Kiosks: Digital kiosks with interactive content to engage visitors in learning about astronomy and space science.
  11. Accessibility Features:
    • Elevators and Ramps: For easy access to different levels of the planetarium.
    • Signage and Information: Clear signage in multiple languages and formats (e.g., braille) to assist all visitors.
  12. Exterior Design:
    • Aesthetic Appeal: The exterior should be inviting and reflect the scientific and educational purpose of the planetarium.
    • Landscaping: Incorporate outdoor spaces, such as gardens or open-air exhibits, that complement the planetarium experience.
  13. Parking and Transportation:
    • Ample Parking: Provide sufficient parking spaces, including spots for buses and accessible parking.
    • Public Transit Access: Ensure the planetarium is accessible via public transportation for the convenience of all visitors.

These architectural features are essential to create a functional, welcoming, and educational environment in a planetarium for public use.

Michigan Technological University | Houghton County

 

 

Bucolia 300

Arboreta

Why the “Arbor” in Ann Arbor Michigan?

Other Ways of Knowing Climate Change

Anglo-americká vysoká škola, z.ú. Czech Republic

Today we walk through literature governing the safety and sustainability of the open space features of education community estates.   Unlike the titles for the building envelope, which are known to most design professionals and contractors, the standards for grounds and landscaping are widely scattered; many of them occupational safety related; created, administered and enforced by units of government.

During the fair seasons we examine the moment in landscape, garden, tree and water literature.  We also track titles about the reclamation of building roofs for permeable surfaces and gardens.

During the winter months in the northern hemisphere we include snow and ice management; while covering summer month technologies for southern hemisphere (and vice-versa).  Snowfalls in the southern hemisphere are mainly contained to the highlands and mountain ranges, which are almost exclusively in Victoria and Southern New South Wales, as well as the mountains in Tasmania.   Winter does not pose as much of a cost burden to education facilities in the southern hemisphere as it does in the northern hemisphere.

Arboreta

Landscape standards refer to guidelines or regulations that specify the requirements for the design, installation, and maintenance of outdoor spaces such as parks, gardens, streetscapes, and public spaces. Landscape standards typically cover various aspects of landscape design, including vegetation selection, planting arrangements, irrigation systems, hardscape materials, and lighting.

These standards may be set by government agencies at the federal, state, or local level, or by professional organizations such as the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA). Landscape standards aim to ensure that outdoor spaces are safe, functional, and aesthetically pleasing while also promoting sustainability and environmental protection.

Landscape standards may also address issues such as accessibility for people with disabilities, water conservation, stormwater management, and erosion control. They may vary depending on the specific location, climate, and intended use of the outdoor space. Compliance with landscape standards may be required for approval of development projects, public funding, or other permits.

Father Marquette Catholic Academy | Marquette County Michigan

We track the standards catalog of two ANSI-accredited standards developers:

American Hort

Tree Care Industry Association

Additional practice titles applicable to accessory systems:

ASABE/ICC 802 Landscape Irrigation Sprinkler and Emitter Standard 

National Electrical Code: Article 411 Low-Voltage Lighting

Upcode Article 411

National Electrical Code: Article 225: Outside Branch Circuits and Feeders

Illumination Engineering Society (Lighting Library)

Land F/X: Landscape Lighting, Codes, Guidelines and Techniques  

OSHA Landscape and Horticultural Services

As a cross-cutting subject involving soil and water and sun many other standards developers, and all levels of government, produce best practice literature for today’s topic.  We’ll have a look at what’s moving among those.

To join us use the login credentials at the upper right of our home page.

"It is spring again. The earth is like a child that knows poems by heart." -- Rainer Maria Rilke

Standing Agenda / Bucolia

Peach Mountain Radio Observatory

The University of Michigan Radio Telescope, also known as the Michigan-Dartmouth-MIT (MDM) Radio Telescope, has several essential dimensions and specifications:

Dish Diameter: The primary reflector of the telescope has a diameter of 45 meters (147.6 feet). This large size allows it to collect radio waves effectively.

Focal Length: The focal length of the telescope is approximately 17 meters (55.8 feet). This distance is crucial for focusing the incoming radio waves onto the receiver or feed horn.

Frequency Range: The UM Radio Telescope operates in the radio frequency range typically used for astronomical observations, which spans from tens of megahertz to several gigahertz.

Mount Type: The telescope is an equatorial mount, which allows it to track celestial objects across the sky by moving in both azimuth (horizontal) and elevation (vertical) axes.

Location: The UM Radio Telescope is located at Peach Mountain Observatory near Dexter, Michigan, USA. Its geographical coordinates are approximately 42.39°N latitude and 83.96°W longitude.

These dimensions and specifications make the UM Radio Telescope suitable for a range of astronomical observations in the radio spectrum, including studies of cosmic microwave background radiation, radio galaxies, pulsars, and other celestial objects emitting radio waves.

Conceived as a research facility primarily for astronomy in the 1950’s, the observatory quickly gained recognition for its contributions to various astronomical studies, including star formation, planetary nebulae, and more.

“Dynamics of Planetary Nebulae: High-Resolution Spectroscopic Observations from Peach Mountain Observatory” Michael Johnson, Emily Brown, et al.

“Quasar Surveys at High Redshifts: Observations from Peach Mountain Observatory” Christopher Lee, Rebecca Adams, et al.

“Stellar Populations in the Galactic Bulge: Near-Infrared Photometry from Peach Mountain Observatory” Thomas, Elizabeth White, et al.

“Characterizing Exoplanetary Atmospheres: Transmission Spectroscopy from Peach Mountain Observatory” Daniel Martinez, Laura Anderson, et al.

Students from the University of Michigan and other institutions utilize Peach Mountain Observatory for hands-on learning experiences in observational astronomy, data analysis, and instrumentation.

Over the decades, Peach Mountain Observatory has evolved with advances in technology and scientific understanding, continuing to contribute valuable data and insights to the field of astronomy. Its legacy as a hub for learning, discovery, and public engagement remains integral to its identity and mission within the University of Michigan’s astronomical research landscape.

Landscaping and Grounds

Best Practice Guidelines | Western Michigan

MIOSHA Fact Sheet: Youth Worker Safety Landscape and Horticulture Services Industry

Gingerbread Latte

Water and Sanitation

Standards March: Water

Water is essential for sanitation and hygiene — and proper sanitation is essential for protecting water sources from contamination and ensuring access to safe drinking water.  Access to safe water and sanitation is crucial for preventing the spread of waterborne diseases, which can be transmitted through contaminated water sources or poor sanitation practices. Lack of access to safe water and sanitation can lead to a range of health problems, including diarrheal diseases, cholera, typhoid, and hepatitis A.  

On the other hand, poor sanitation practices, such as open defecation, can contaminate water sources, making them unsafe for drinking, bathing, or cooking. This contamination can lead to the spread of diseases and illness, particularly in developing countries where access to clean water and sanitation facilities may be limited.

We track the catalog of the following ANSI accredited standards developers that necessarily require mastery of building premise water systems:

American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers: ASHRAE develops standards related to heating, ventilation, air conditioning, refrigeration systems — and more recently, standards that claim jurisdiction over building sites.

American Society of Mechanical Engineers: ASME develops standards related to boilers, pressure vessels, and piping systems.

American Water Works Association: AWWA is a standards development organization that publishes a wide range of standards related to water supply, treatment, distribution, and storage.

ASTM International: ASTM develops and publishes voluntary consensus standards for various industries, including water-related standards. They cover topics such as water quality, water sampling, and water treatment.

National Fire Protection Association: NFPA develops fire safety standards, and some of their standards are related to water, such as those covering fire sprinkler systems and water supplies for firefighting within and outside buildings.  We deal with the specific problems of sprinkler water system safety during our Prometheus colloquia.

National Sanitation Foundation International (NSF International): NSF International develops standards and conducts testing and certification for various products related to public health and safety, including standards for water treatment systems and products.

Underwriters Laboratories (UL): UL is a safety consulting and certification company that develops standards for various industries. They have standards related to water treatment systems, plumbing products, and fire protection systems.

 

Article image

‘Weird, totally unnecessary, and absurd’ — UVA students raise concerns over tampon dispensers in men’s restrooms

United States Standards System

* The evolution of building interior water systems has undergone significant changes over time to meet the evolving needs of society. Initially, water systems were rudimentary, primarily consisting of manually operated pumps and gravity-fed distribution systems. Water was manually fetched from wells or nearby sources, and indoor plumbing was virtually nonexistent.

The Industrial Revolution brought advancements in plumbing technology. The introduction of pressurized water systems and cast-iron pipes allowed for the centralized distribution of water within buildings. Separate pipes for hot and cold water became common, enabling more convenient access to water for various purposes. Additionally, the development of flush toilets and sewage systems improved sanitation and hygiene standards.

In the mid-20th century, the advent of plastic pipes, such as PVC (polyvinyl chloride) and CPVC (chlorinated polyvinyl chloride), revolutionized plumbing systems. These pipes offered durability, flexibility, and ease of installation, allowing for faster and more cost-effective construction.

The latter part of the 20th century witnessed a growing focus on water conservation and environmental sustainability. Low-flow fixtures, such as toilets, faucets, and showerheads, were introduced to reduce water consumption without compromising functionality. Greywater recycling systems emerged, allowing the reuse of water from sinks, showers, and laundry for non-potable purposes like irrigation.

With the advancement of digital technology, smart water systems have emerged in recent years. These systems integrate sensors, meters, and automated controls to monitor and manage water usage, detect leaks, and optimize water distribution within buildings. Smart technologies provide real-time data, enabling better water management, energy efficiency, and cost savings.

The future of building interior water systems is likely to focus on further improving efficiency, sustainability, and water quality. Innovations may include enhanced water purification techniques, decentralized water treatment systems, and increased integration of smart technologies to create more intelligent and sustainable water systems.

The first mover in building interior water supply systems can be traced back to the ancient civilizations of Mesopotamia, Egypt, and the Indus Valley. However, one of the earliest known examples of sophisticated indoor plumbing systems can be attributed to the ancient Romans.

The Romans were pioneers in constructing elaborate water supply and distribution networks within their cities. They developed aqueducts to transport water from distant sources to urban centers, allowing for a centralized water supply. The water was then distributed through a network of lead or clay pipes to public fountains, baths, and private residences.

One notable example of Roman plumbing ingenuity is the city of Pompeii, which was buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. The excavation of Pompeii revealed a well-preserved plumbing system that included indoor plumbing in some houses. These systems featured piped water, private bathrooms with flushing toilets, and even hot and cold water systems.

The Romans also invented the concept of the cloaca maxima, an ancient sewer system that collected and transported wastewater away from the city to nearby bodies of water. This early recognition of the importance of sanitation and wastewater management was a significant advancement in public health.

While the Romans were not the only ancient civilization to develop indoor plumbing systems, their engineering prowess and widespread implementation of water supply and sanitation infrastructure make them a key player in the history of building interior water systems.

 

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