The purpose of this study was to assess the present state of building systems, to analyze projects currently being developed, and to predict future advances in systems. "Building system" is used to designate a minimum of three major subsystems designed to fit and function together without the necessity of onsite cutting or other extensive…

Presents the history of the URBS program and discusses the convertibility factor of the building system. (MF)

Basic information and guidelines on the use of URBS components are provided for use by architects and engineers. The URBS system was developed in response to the competitive bidding on performance specifications, incorporating user requirements, economic constraints, industry capability and trade practices. The essence of the URBS Project--the…

This document attempts to provide a "state of the art" study of the application of building systems to construction with emphasis on educational facilities. Although directed primarily at the architect and the building team, this material can also be useful to those who contemplate using building systems. Building systems are considered part of a…

The Construction Systems Program (CSP) is the management process utilized in the construction of additions to four schools in the Detroit School District. The objectives of CSP were (1) to reduce the time required to plan and construct new buildings and additions, (2) to reduce the cost of new buildings and additions, and (3) to maintain or…

Building design, planning, and construction programing for modular decentralized mechanical building systems are outlined in terms of costs, performance, expansion and flexibility. Design strategy, approach, and guidelines for implementing such systems for buildings are suggested, with emphasis on mechanical equipment and building element…

The project goal was to make available to higher education the advantages of the system developed for English school construction. This bulletin describes the various stages in the project. Differences between building system and single building design are discussed; results of investigations into user needs and general performance specifications…

This document reports the development of a system of mass-produced standardized components for school construction. The project was originated and implemented to solve a problem connected with the heavy demand for schools that confronted the Montreal Catholic School Board. The report outlines the problem -- a need for schools -- and gives details…

This paper provides a scientific basis for the formulation and expression of performance standards and specifications and for explicit attention to performance in procedural and prescriptive standards and specifications. The provisions of "Interim Performance Criteria for Solar Heating and Combined Heating/Cooling Systems and Dwellings," a…

The Center for Building Technology (CBT) provides the technical and scientific bases for criteria and standards that improve the usefulness, safety, and economy of buildings while conserving building materials and energy. CBT's activities support the building technology program of the federal, state, and local government; assist design…

The Center for Building Technology (CBT) provides the technical and scientific bases for criteria and standards that improve the usefulness, safety, and economy of buildings. CBT research also aims at conserving building materials and energy. Individual projects may emphasize one or more of the center's typical activities in providing improved…

This study presents an overview of collected literature relevant to school buildings, or building in general, in disaster-prone areas, together with some discussion of the role that school buildings, as a universally present community asset, may play in situations of crisis. The natural disasters referred to in this study include cyclones and…