Entry 20: Regular OAC Meeting

Hey everyone,

Today's OAC meeting has left me with some updates that I'd like to share with you. First off, the highly anticipated HVAC equipment will be coming in this week, which will bring back construction including the rough-ins such as plumbing and electrical. This means that things will start to be exciting from a physical perspective, but people have been busy behind-the-scenes. Right now, we are currently working on finalizing a siding material for the outside envelope of the building. I believe that will be decided asap and once that happens, I'll unleash an artistic rendering of the home with that new color! Secondly, work needs to be done on the control system and the lighting fixture and controls must be approved. We are in the process of finalizing the kitchen appliances selection. I am involved in that area with the architects from Smith Group. Also, plenty of finalizing must be done such as the cabinetry requirements, interior paneling, and floor materials/colors. As things become finalized, I'll be sure to let you know what has been picked and for what reason.

As for now, enjoy the beautiful spring weather and check the Picassa acount after Thurs., March 29th because I will be making a site visit and will post new photos.

-Scott

Entry 19: 6 Items

Hey everyone,

The blog has been patiently at rest for a couple of weeks due to not much physical changes in construction. I thought though to share a couple of neat things going on discussed from the OAC meeting before Spring Break and a few visits from corporations.

1. Photos of the roof taken by me and by the site superintendent, Ray, are up on the Picasa account. Baker Roofing has set up the basic components of the American Hydrotech green roof system. Check out photos of the crew putting down the various layers involved.
2. We discussed at last week's OAC meeting the light situation, particularly in the Media room and outside path and spot lighting. Over spring break, there will be a product overview session from Clipsal Lighting, which unfortunately I will be unable to attend. There will be an owner training session later on, so it isn't a big deal (Plus, Tom Rose will be representing the students over break).
3. Wed. 3/7, there was a demonstration meeting to discuss upgrading the house lock's and experimenting with different technology such as biometric verification (fingerprint and hand readers) and electronic keypad locks by Ingersoll Rand's product line called Schlage. At the meeting, I was very impressed with the attendees: important representatives from DUPD, the Duke Card Office, Industry Relations, Ingeroll Rand, and the head of Duke locks. We saw various products, both residential and commercial that would be interesting to incorporate withing the home. It was a great opportunity to sit down and discuss these things, as well as share ideas and learn about the technology/terminology.
4. Thur. 3/8, was a Verizon visit day for Duke Smart Home. Representatives from many aspects of the company met for the day to discuss future collaboration with the company. Those who came were from Mass Market Innovation, Retail Services Technology, New Services, Customer Experience, and Broadband Solutions. We look forward to working with them on some undetermined project in the future.
5. BP anounced they will be donating 5 more solar panels to the home (from 13 to 18) making about 20% power for the home. This will give us 3 renewable energy LEED credit points!
6. Spring break went smoothly and the next OAC meeting is Tues. 3/27, so more updates should follow then.