Sim Day Results: Systems Integration

Today's Sim Day Results comes in the form of a few tips/reminders, rather than a list of rights and wrongs. This pretty much sums up my common mistake with this exercise. I only got one wrong, so I'm thinking I passed ;) 

TIP: Don't forget the P of MEP! Most of the problems in this exercise will have to do with the ceiling, but in a rare (and possibly phased-out) instance, we must look down. Conflicts with plumbing trenches and structural portions of the floor may arise. In addition to looking down, reference the building section provided. 

TIP: As I shared in this post, it's very important to use the building section provided. You might not need to solve every problem, but there will definitely be one or two which will prove difficult without it. See below. 

{ What the section clarifies }

Structural beams, joists, and columns (Sizes and locations)
What this means: you cannot run a duct, sprinkler line, or plumbing trench through these solid (usually concrete or steel) building components.

Ceiling height changes 
What this means: If a ceiling pops up, you cannot run duct work at the same height or it would continue through the wall and *exposed* across the pop-up. Same goes for sprinkler lines. If a beam is running across your ceiling plan, the section might also show this - it would be the opposite of a pop-up and because it's structural, you still cannot run components through it (see above).

Happy Prepping,
Carolyn

Sim Day Results: Life Safety

Grade: PASS

How I felt during: Strong, efficient, and thorough

{ How I did }

Door/Frame/Hardware Schedule 

(26/28 Selections Correct)

• Got my door heights right this time! All 7'-0"
• Used HM (Hollow Metal) for a storage room door, and SCW (Solid Core Wood) for all others
• Kept it consistent: AL (Aluminum) frames for all
• Kept it consistent: Same door type for all single doors, with the exception of one double door (no visibility requirements)
• Rated all doors requiring it to 20 minutes (not one hour!)
• I selected 2 of 4 locksets incorrectly. Bummer. Well, really - who knows if they could be right? The solutions are not helpful. I'd love to learn this!!
• (X) One was for a rated storage room (TIP: greater than 100 SF must be rated) requiring controlled access. I selected a Lever Passage Set with Maglock and Card Reader. Correct: Lever Passage Set with Maglock, Closer, and Card Reader. TIP: Rated doors (like this one) require a closer. 
• (X) For a rated assembly space, I specified: Lever Passage Set with Closer. Correct: Lockset with Panic Bar and Closer.**
• **Still not sure why a panic bar is required in a training room. Panic bars are typically required on exits from a tenant space, doors to stairways, and exits from stairways/buildings. Anyone know for sure?

Partition Schedule 

(14/15 Selections Correct)

• (X) I got everything right except a Conference Room wall with acoustical properties needed to extend to the deck not 4" above finished ceiling; TIP: Acoustical = to deck. 

Plan

• (X) Missed an Exit sign
• (X) Drew arrows on an exit sign in the wrong direction

I will be featuring a post this week titled "Hardware: Rules of Thumb." I'm determined to get this right!!!

Luck with locks,

Carolyn

Sim Day Results: Lighting

Grade: PASS!

not my plan, but photo from: Katy Higley

I've really come through on this exercise. My practice has paid off, as I only made (2) mistakes on the plan. Hooray! Happy dance!

• I designated a night-time security light (a 2x4 Fluorescent fixture) as required, but I switched it. It should not have the ability to be switched off. Lesson learned! (Though, I believe this requirement has been omitted in the new format of the test.)
• I miscalculated one of my fixture wattage totals: a 4-piece under-cabinet task light (4-piece meaning 4x9" segments). I entered it as 4 x 20W per fixture = 100W. Oops.  It didn't affect my totals much at all (20 Watts) and I was still within wattage allowed. 

Strategies Employed

• First off, I started with my entire hour available. No space planning spill-over. Good start!
• I read the directions thoroughly and wrote down key points on the side of my plan.
• I started by calculating my wattage allowed. 
• 1.5W/SF x Total SF = Total Watts Allowed
• Lightly (in pencil) drew in small lights with symbols, adding roughly as I went.
• Adjusted my plan a few times until it was right, rather than rushing into the "pretty pen drawing" stage.
• I wasn't familiar with the "NL" night light requirements, so I did spend some time trying to find limits or restrictions in the Code information. No such luck!
• Included any fixtures the exercise provided.
• Checked thoroughly.

Good Luck,

Carolyn

Systems Integration: How I Did!

PASS! 

Yeah, man! Ok, so this being my "easy-breezy" section, I would have cried for days if I didn't succeed. Want to hear a confession? I was afraid to take this section because I forgot they provide the numbered conflicts. I was all like "Wahhh.. I have to search and what if I don't find all of the conflicts?" Eh, it's only my second go-round. Easy mistake. 

Then I'm all taping down the two sheets of vellum like, "Wow, I've got to get over this test anxiety thing. Stat." And little by little, I think I'm doing just that. ;)

So, here goes!

What I did:

84" mounting heights in my table - all the same - not trying to be fancy.. just correct!*
See reasoning in this post.

After checking against the provided solutions, I listed all conflicts and provided sound solutions. I also drew everything on the plan. Room for improvement:

• I used "right, left, up, and down" for my relocation words. I don't think I would have been marked down, but "north, south, east, and west" are more appropriate.
• I didn't look at my section because it was under my "Notes" table. But I missed a supply duct conflicting with a ceiling height change. I could have also referred to the noted ceiling heights on the plan, itself. 
• Duct heights are noted in the "Duct Sizing Chart". I only had 8" for a 10" duct. Oops! It's easy to get caught up in the 2D-ness of the plan, but I need to think vertically.

{ TIPS }

• Speaking of thinking vertically, it is acceptable to suggest a ceiling height change.
• Refer to your test booklet for what can and cannot be moved... chances are you have your own test booklet, so I'm going to forgo reiterating those guidelines here.
• Don't forget to draw in the 2x2 AHU Access panel where directed! Such a simple requirement and so sad if you forget it! 
• Thermostats cannot go on windows or window mullions. The reading will be inaccurate and it's difficult to tie in the thermostat with the system unless it's on a GWB wall. It's also difficult to mount to anything, but, er - a wall...
• Shift small or easily moved items before suggesting that a ceiling feature such as a recessed cove be re-sized or relocated.
• Look for sprinkler heads and recessed downlight conflicts, 2x2 fluorescent lights and register conflicts, ceiling height change and duct conflicts, and thermostat placement.

Integration station! 

Stay positive,

Carolyn

Systems Integration Tips and Tricks

Systems Integration focuses on a designer's ability to consider other consultants and building systems while designing both a reflected ceiling plan and a subsequent lighting plan. 

Methinks this might be a leeeetle hard to plan around...

While an architect usually has a heavy hand in the ceiling design and features, it may require aesthetic input from an interior designer. As there are many trades involved once you're above eye level in a space (read: Exit signage, sprinklers, HVAC, lighting, power, and access panels to the plenum), it is important to be well-versed in the integration of every trade. This is an area of design where those involved must not only compromise often, they must be clear and communicate soundly to ensure each system is functioning efficiently. 

Systems Integration 

Time suggested: 1/2 hour

This portion of the test is my personal breather. It's the "easy" part for me where my brain isn't racing, measuring, sketching, and re-reading the program constantly. Reasons why:

• They don't make you go in cold and hunt for conflicts - they bubble them for you. After 6-7 hours of testing, this is much appreciated.
• I love comparing, checking, and considering other trades. I enjoyed it in college (my favorite class was the technical one, oddly) and I enjoy it at work. 
• I have a lot of experience in this area from my time in an architectural firm where I was designing among HVAC and sprinklers often. I worked on many RCP's, sections, and details. 
• I had a lot more exposure to the construction of and components within the plenum than I ever bargained for when I learned Revit. 
• I grew up with an architect for a father who pointed out every code violation anywhere we went. He is always looking up. I was looking at complicated reflected ceiling plans, roof plans, sections, and details asking questions. 

For all this knowledge and enjoyment, this part of the test is worth a whopping 12%.

Boo on that. 

{ TIPS }

1. The lighting schedule and legend: I've found that if you stick to 84" (7'-0") for all mounting heights, you're in the safe range.

• Pendants over a counter: 6'-6" to 7'-6" AFF  - - - - 84" OK here
• Chandelier / pendant over a table: 6'-8" to 8'-6" - - - - 84" OK Here
• Sconces on wall: between 27" and 80" must protrude less than 4"... stick above 80" at 84" and you're good.

Don't over-think this one. They're looking for compliant not creative. 

2. When tackling conflicts, I prefer not to go in numerical order. Why? Because your solution for Conflict #2 might affect Conflict #8. I go by areas or rooms with #'s nearby. It may not always be the case, but personally - it keeps me sharp. 

3. When writing your conflict descriptions, use terms like "interferes" and "conflicts with" even though it's obviously a conflict. Don't just write "recessed down light and sprinkler head." Don't assume the graders know what you mean.

4. When suggesting relocation for your solution, use north, south, east, and west to describe the direction you're recommending an item be shifted. Also, you can write "move one 2x2 ceiling tile to the north" or "shift approx. 6" to the east."

5. Be as descriptive in your drawn solution on the plan. I use arrows and my own revision clouds and I reiterate what my suggestions are there. 

6. Pay attention to ceiling heights and HVAC ducts. Use the section drawing. With the ceiling dropping down in some areas or being vaulted in others, a supply duct could be truncated before it reaches a register!

If anyone has their own trials or tips, please feel free to share in the comments below!!

More tips to come in my "How I Did" Post! 

Happy comparing!

Carolyn

Lighting Exercise: How I Did!

(This is long, but it's my favorite post to date). :)

Source unknown, but I love this!

Last night, (Feb 12th), I took the Lighting Exercise of my first practice test. On Monday night (the 10th) and over the weekend, I studied my old practice test to refresh my knowledge. I also thought back to my Spring 2012 exam and where I had room for improvement. I did it in 1/3 of the allotted time - that's a problem!! 

After taking the test, I was seriously drained (this will get better and I will be able to handle the full 9 hour day). I helped Andrew with taxes, did a 30-day shred workout, actually washed my face before bed, and even watched part of an SNL episode before falling asleep. It felt amazing to exercise my mind, my creativity, my body, and my ability to laugh uncontrollably. I felt accomplished and HAPPY.

I sat down for exactly (1) hour. I didn't read/study before. I didn't check my work right after. I used my watch from Andrew and my Kimball Office calculator. 

TIP (day off): For your tools, bring personal items that remind you of the moment you received them, a special person, or a happy place help to set your mind at ease, relieving anxiety and providing familiar refuge. I'm using my pretty watch from Andrew and my lucky Sharpie.

TIP (prep time): Quality over quantity when it comes to test prep. Don't force yourself to sit there for 3 hours. If you can't fill the time effectively, you'll a) retain very little and b) feel disappointed and defeated if you don't make it for your goal time. Be smart with study goals. If you get one hour in and you're mind shuts down, don't force it. Take a break for 15 minutes or 15 hours. Sleep on it. And if you want to keep going even if it's late at night, embrace that!!

Here goes...

Start time: 7:47 pm

End time: 8:47 pm

This included me opening the crisply folded test vellum (2 pieces). It took me a minute alone to straighten it out! I won't need to do this on the test day as they hand you a flat set of test vellum in a HUGE Ziploc (love that!). 

TIP: Write your start time and end time in the corner of your test vellum. Not only will you remember when you started, I like to think that the graders see that you're a focused and committed candidate. I'm not saying this will cancel out the wrong stuff, but I believe if you are actually that invested in marking your time, chances are it will show in your solution.

I taped my pages to the desk and read my test booklet. Next, I determined how much wattage I was allowed by multiplying the watts/SF by the SF like I shared with you in this post.

I'd love to tell you what the space I designed the lighting plan for, but it's confidential! Though, I'll tell you one juicy detail: I was allowed 900 watts total.

TIP: Picture a real person in your life as your "client". It sounds cheesy, but it helps me focus, relieve anxiety, and feel more invested in my work.

I accomplished the following:

• Created a design solution including fixtures which provide an appropriate level of general lighting (ambient, task, accent).

• Drafted a sound switching diagram:
• Adjustable levels of illumination where required 
• Separate switching per function and per lamp source
• Graphically depicted switching connections
• Appropriately tagged all fixtures
• Properly dimensioned fixtures where required
• Properly labeled mounting heights for fixtures per egress/accessibility guidelines
• Complete lighting schedule
• Watts per SF don't exceed 1.5 W/SF

Tonight (Feb 13th), I graded my test using the Pass, Borderline Pass, and Fail examples. 

Pass - 5 problems

Borderline - 8 problems

Fail - 12 problems

I had (6) problems! I'd say I was close to Pass! Here's what I missed:

• { X } Placed (2) of (5) switches in the room behind one door of a double door **Graders say this is actually OK as one door could be fixed. I found a discrepancy in the plan on their part regarding this and another mark-down. Not getting into it, but it's very poor design! And so obvious!
• { X } I applied a 3-way switch to (2) of (3) fixtures. All three should be on the 3-way. 
• { X } Put a "D" (standard dimmer) where a "DLV" (dimmer low voltage should be) in one space (a single wall washer).
• { X } Put a "D" (standard dimmer) where a "DLV" (dimmer low voltage should be) in another space (a single down light).
• { X } Did not specify the mounting height of a pendant fixture hanging from the ceiling. Height to bottom of (b.o.) fixture is sufficient. I did indicate heights for all sconces, though!
• { X } I don't think they would have docked me for this, but I started filling in my lighting schedule with "Fixture Description" (i.e. "Recessed down light") and "Rational." Halfway through, I started omitting the "Fixture Description" and writing my own shortened version.

I feel much sharper than I was on Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday. This was a tremendously helpful refresher since I do not have the opportunity to do lighting plans often. I played a part in designing many lighting plans with various task/ambient/general lighting applications when I worked at a commercial firm in the city and when I was fresh out of college at a residential business. 

I really enjoyed this exercise. I have a little tear from being able to say that. 

Level of confidence: ELEVATED!

Stay bright and hopeful,
Carolyn

Lighting Exercise Tips & Strategies

Below are my tips and strategies for creating a sound lighting plan. I may or may not have had some bit of help from my engineer of a husband. He's so grrrreat! Before we dive in to the technical stuff, an example of a very well-lit kitchen!

Source unknown,  but if you know, please comment!

 { Weight & Time }

It is recommended that you allow (1) hour for this portion. You'll need to keep track of time carefully on Part A of the Practicum:

• Space Planning Exercise (3) hours* 23%
• Lighting Exercise (1) hour 11%

*The Space Planning Exercise is chock full of requirements and can include up to 20 spaces within one 1/4" floor plan (hence why it is the most heavily weighted at 23% of the exam and requires the most time). See lesson learned here under point #2: Bring a watch or small silent clock! TIP: Take the Lighting Section FIRST so you can rest easy once you start your Space Planning. You won't be worrying about Lighting the whole time!

{ Strategy: Be a Math Wiz }

TIP: Before you begin, determine how much wattage you can use throughout the entire space.

Multiply the Energy Allowance noted in the exam booklet by the total Square Footage noted on the plan.

Energy allowance: 1.5 watts/SF

Total SF: 595 SF

1.5 x 595 = 892.5

This is the number of watts allowed for the space. TIP: Round down and aim for 892 or less. 

When selecting light fixtures and quantities, keep in mind that you'll need to take an inventory of these fixtures to multiply the total fixtures by their watts.

For example, if you are using Recessed Down-lighting with 30 W per fixture and you have placed (4) lights in the living space, (2) in the foyer, (1) in the study alcove, and (3) in the kitchen, you will multiply the total of all fixtures by 30(W).

(4) + (2) + (1) + (3) = 10 fixtures

(10) x 30 watts = 300 watts 

Subtract that from your 892 and you have 592 watts left to use in the space. Keep rough track of this as you go, but do not let it eat away your time.

{ Strategy: Know Your Time }

I (from personal practice) find that if you're well-prepared, the 60 minutes should look something like this:

• 3 minutes to read the directions (thoroughly)
• 30-35 minutes to design lighting plan/draw fixtures/switching/dimension
• 10 minutes to work on calculations/fill in the table provided
• Remaining 12-17 minutes to check your work. This last part seems like a lot, but chances are, you might have missed something in the plan below and need to re-work your fixtures and switching and possibly tweak your quantities & calculations. 

{ Strategy: Draw Accurately & Label }

TIP: Be sure to draw the symbols as they're shown in the specifications AND label them. During one of my practice exams, I just drew all circles thinking if I labeled them, they'd be okay. While in architectural world, there may be more fixtures than symbols, you wouldn't use the same circle for a pendant that you would for a recessed down light. The NCIDQ makes it easy for you by providing the symbols so use 'em! In another test, I didn't label the chandelier because it had a distinctive symbol and there was only one. But you'll get docked for that, so keep it real and l-a-b-e-l!

{ Other Tips }

TIP: While vellum is mostly clear, be sure to press down to see architectural details - I missed a sliding (not pocket) door interfering with a wall sconce because my vellum had lifted slightly and I couldn't see the lines below. 

TIP: Pay attention to sloped ceilings. This is the difference between a recessed down light and a recessed down light for sloped ceiling. This is an important distinction we're being tested to know.

TIP: Pay attention to feature walls. Use lowered (drop) track fixtures or wall washers with artwork and more COMPACT track fixtures with shelving. 

TIP: Don't forget required dimensions. Thank goodness they don't make you dimension every fixture, but the NCIDQ will ask you to dimension lighting over islands, feature walls, pieces of furniture, or bar counters.

I could go on and on with lighting rules of thumb, but well, chances are - you're a designer - and you're well-versed in what sort of lighting should be used for each function of a space. You can do it!

Stay bright,
Carolyn