About Us
Our Engineering Club was given the challenge to leave a legacy. After brainstorming for weeks, we discovered the living roof concept. We implemented our passion for engineering to create a unique, innovative learning setting that would be available to all students. Additionally, we are striving to inspire a new group of students to start their own big idea.
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WHAT IS A LIVING ROOF |
A living roof by definition is a structure that can sustain and support vegetation and a growing medium. We however are taking this to another level by adding extra components to enhance the educational value of the space.
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What will we do with this projectComponents of the roofNet-zero energyIrrigationHelping the community |
On the roof we are implementing a multitude of components for the maximum output of learning. The living roof serves as an efficient place to combine education with a change in atmosphere. Furthermore, the living roof serves as a multipurpose area, for educational activities such as science labs, outdoor studies, extracurricular clubs, and in addition, social activities such as movie nights and super bowl parties which will fund the cost of maintenance and repairs.
There will be a stage that could be used by any group or organization, such as Band, Orchestra, or Choir. It will also include an LED T.V. (Phase 2) to increase the ease in which teachers can teach. We will also have LED lights that will generate a comfortable ambiance. Also, there are many eco-friendly systems and processes that will be included on this roof. We have worked with engineers on the upper level to design a solar panel system that will allow net-zero energy consumption. We have also developed an irrigation system that re-uses A.C. condensation and rainwater run-off, creating a self sustaining system, rather than depending on direct domestic water supply. A waterfall will be added which will be also connected to the water conservation system. Lastly, the wide open grass area will allow students to sit down, listen to the teacher, read a book, or study.
The MBHS living roof's goal is to have a net zero energy consumption through the use of solar energy. The maximum energy requirement if everything was running would be 719 kWh per day. We will meet the energy requirements by using approximately 30 solar panels(dependent on the wattage of the panels). The total cost of a 9 kW system utilizing the 36 250 Watt panels is estimated to be $27,800.00 and that is including the installation, city permits, and engineering. A 9kW system would produce a little over half of our maximum energy needs since the living roof will not be used yearlong and the solar panels will be producing energy yearlong. This would meet our goal of a net zero energy consumption assuming that only half of the estimated maximum power is actually used. See the powerpoint for more information.
Condensation from the existing AC units and runoff water is collected and transferred into a manhole under an existing storm drain. The water is then pumped into a pump house where it is filtered, and stored in a water collection tank. The water is later used to irrigate the plants and grass up to 3 times a week. as well as fill the waterfall. See the powerpoint for more information.
Webb Elementary heard about the project and asked us to help them build a handicap accessible playground. We have mentored the kids through their venture, just as our mentors have supported and aided us. We also received an offer to partner will the Dallas Arboretum and redesign their kids area. We have been so fortunate to receive all the help that we have had, and this really inspires us to give back and help others.
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