Senior Design Project
Project groups deliver their products that have progressed through the design, analysis, testing and evaluation stages. The project teams produce a polished professional report that describes the design process, implementation and testing, verification and validation, and a critical appraisal of the project. An oral presentation and graphic works are complementary project deliverables.
Resources and Guidelines
General Guidelines
Rubric for Proposal Evaluation
Rubric for Mid-Way and Final Evaluation
Sample of a Senior Design Project
Grade Distribution
Proposed Projects for Future Students
| Instructor | Title and Description | Link | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prof Ibrahim Alhammad and Dr Mahmoud Nawar |
Structural Engineering (Umbrella Steel Design Case Study) Steel design structures are done in accordance with SBC requirements, ASTEM and others. Challenges are raised during erection especially when the architectural design is innovative. A small steel structure of Umbrella 4m by 4m by 3m is already erected at the court yard of accessible house. The umberall was first built based on the inexperienced steel subcontractor in accordance with the orginal plan; however, the steel roof was so heavy that it posed a danger of collapse due to the weight of the Cantilever. This risk is mitigated by reinforcing the columns to counter the overweight. Was this approach is the only solution? . |
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| Dr. Mohamed Ezzat Al-Atroush |
Highway and Transportation (Senior Design Project in Highway and Transportation Engineering) The Senior Design Project in Highway and Transportation Engineering is a capstone course for undergraduate CEE students, offering a blend of advanced theoretical concepts and practical applications in the field of transportation engineering. This course provides an immersive experience where students tackle real-world challenges associated with the design, planning, and management of modern transportation systems.Throughout the course, students will engage with a range of topics, including highway design and safety, traffic flow theory, transportation planning, and sustainable urban mobility. Emphasis will be placed on innovative and intelligent transportation systems, exploring the integration of cutting-edge technologies such as AI for traffic management, autonomous vehicle infrastructure, and smart city transportation solutions. |
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| Dr. Mohamed Ezzat Al-Atroush |
Geotechnical Engineering (Geotechnical Engineering Senior Design Project course) This Geotechnical Engineering Senior Design course is designed as a capstone experience, blending advanced theoretical knowledge with practical, real-world applications. The course offers students the opportunity to engage in comprehensive, hands-on projects that embody the complexities and challenges of modern geotechnical engineering. Throughout the course, students will progress through the principles of geotechnical engineering, from advanced soil mechanics and foundation engineering to soil stabilization, and then advance to exploring the latest technologies and methodologies in geotechnical engineering, such as geothermal applications and AI integration in geotechnical solutions. The emphasis will be placed on sustainable practices, resilience in infrastructure, and innovative solutions to contemporary geotechnical problems. |
Link | |
| Dr. Dara S.M. Ghasimi |
Environmental Engineering (An Overview of Municipal Solid Waste Management Practices in Riyadh City) With an anticipated population of 8.5 million by 2030, Riyadh, the capital of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, is one of the most prosperous and rapidly developing cities in the Middle East. The rate of economic growth and changes in lifestyles and consumer behavior are substantially increasing the variety and quantity of municipal solid waste (MSW) generated by the city's residents. This growth and development are imposing increasing pressure on Riyadh’s inadequate waste management infrastructure, resulting in considerable economic, environmental, and social repercussions. |
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| Dr. Ahmed M. Abdelrazek Ibrahim |
Environmental Engineering (On the Use of NASA Earth Observation Data to design flood protection structures (Hydrological study) Using remotely sensed NASA Earth Observation Data, the project aims to analyze a selected Saudi Arabian watershed. Digital elevation models (DEM) for the project region and hydrological applications like WMS or ArcGIS Pro (Hydrology Toolset) will be used to determine the watershed's boundaries and features. The IDF and the rating curves will be obtained from rainfall data using statistical methods to calculate the watershed's maximum discharge, time, and total volume during any rainstorm. The best flash flood protection (hydraulic structures) depends on the terrain, and natural factors will be selected. The selected structure will be hydraulically and structurally designed. |
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| Prof Ibrahim Alhammad and Dr Dara S.M. Ghasimi |
Environmental Engineering (Construction Waste Material Measurement in the Construction Industry) Material waste during construction comes at economic costs. In this project, we focus on the residential housing construction and material waste measurement which represents a high percentage of the total cost of the construction project. More, we look at the material waste toxificastion and corborate it with its cost of the building and community. To do so, we need to design a survey to cover reasonable number of residential housing and measure the quantity of waste components and check its toxitifcation degree. Thereafter, we can compare to international or specific country standards for benchmarking. |
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| Dr. Musa Adamu, Prof Yasser Mansour, Dr Mahmud T. Nawar |
Concrete Materials (Optimizing Geopolymer Mix Design for 3D Concrete printing applications utilizing local supplementary materials (SCM) available in Saudi Arabia) Despite the fact that 3D concrete printing technology has progressed significantly in recent decades, there is an urgent need to develop appropriate 3DP materials that improve performance while reducing material consumption, which is critical for reducing carbon dioxide emissions. Geopolymers (GPs) have been found to be a promising alternative to cement-based materials. The constituent materials are significantly more complicated than ordinary concrete, making it harder to formulate combinations for 3D concrete printing. With the increase in the number of materials used in mix design, the workload increases dramatically during the development phase. Research studies are continuously conducted to determine the optimum materials for mix design to manage cement hydration, pumpability, material deposition, and curing procedures. This project innovatively applies 3D Geopolymer concrete printing technology in the construction industry, utilizing locally sourced materials from Saudi Arabia. It addresses key challenges in optimizing concrete mixtures to ensure both structural integrity and environmental sustainability. By employing empirical trial-and-error methods for developing 3D-printable geopolymer concrete mixes, the project advances construction technology in a practical manner. |
Link | |
| Dr Basel Sultan, Prof Ibrahim Alhammad |
Construction Management (Approaches to Cost Estimation for [Specific Structure]) This proposal demonstrates a comparative investigation of different estimation approaches and offers an innovative approach to cost estimation for [particular structure, e.g., a bridge, solar plant]. Project success depends on accurate cost estimation since it affects resource allocation and budgeting. In order to determine the best approaches for improving cost estimation accuracy and efficiency, this study will compare conventional and innovative approaches. |
Link | |
| Dr Basel Sultan, Dr Rakan |
Construction Management (Corrective Measures for Failed Construction Projects) The purpose of this proposal is to look at the corrective measures that might be taken in the case of failed construction projects. Case studies involving major project failures will be examined in order to pinpoint common causes and suggest workable remedial techniques. The initiative aims to improve knowledge of risk management and recovery procedures in the construction sector, which will ultimately lead to better project outcomes and industry sustainability. |
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| Dr Basel Sultan, Prof. Zubair Ahmed |
Construction Management (Cost Estimation for a Sustainable [Structure Type] in Riyadh) The objective of this project is to develop a cost estimation model for a sustainable [Structure Type] in Riyadh. By incorporating energy-efficient systems and eco-friendly materials, the model will accurately predict overall project costs while minimizing environmental impact. The project will involve collecting data on local labor, material, and equipment expenses. To assess the model's accuracy and sustainability, a cost-benefit analysis and Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) will be conducted. Ultimately, this project aims to provide construction professionals with a valuable tool to ensure projects remain within budget while achieving sustainability objectives. |
Link | |
| Dr Basel Sultan, Prof. Zubair Ahmed |
Construction Management (Green Building Design & construction: A Green Building Approach for housing project in Riyadh) As Riyadh continues to experience rapid urbanization, the need for sustainable housing solutions has become increasingly critical. This proposal outlines a comprehensive approach to integrating green building practices within residential projects in the city. By focusing on energy efficiency, water conservation, and improved indoor air quality, the project aims to create environmentally friendly living spaces that enhance the quality of life for residents. This initiative not only addresses immediate housing needs but also aligns with Riyadh’s long-term sustainability goals, paving the way for a greener future. This project represents a significant step towards sustainable urban development in Riyadh. By adopting green building practices, we can create healthier living environments and contribute to the city’s long-term sustainability goals. |
Link | |
| Dr Basel Sultan |
Construction Management (Comparison between Sustainable and Conventional Construction Methods: A Green Building Approach in Riyadh) The project aims to compare sustainable and conventional construction methods and material for a building in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, with the goal of assessing their environmental impact and cost-effectiveness. It will involve comparing two types or more of the same building type, one using conventional methods and materials, and the other using sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems. The project aims to provide insights into the benefits and drawbacks of each approach and promote sustainable development in Riyadh. The findings will contribute to more informed decision-making in the construction industry and promote sustainable development in KSA. |
Link | |
| 3 | Dr. Ihab Katar |
Construction Management (AI-Driven Scheduling and Cost Estimation for Building Projects) This project focuses on developing an AI-powered system for scheduling and cost estimation in building projects. By leveraging machine learning algorithms and historical project data, the system will optimize timelines, predict potential delays, and provide accurate cost forecasts. The goal is to minimize budget overruns, improve resource allocation, and streamline project workflows. The system will integrate data analytics and visualization tools to provide dynamic, real-time insights for project managers and stakeholders. |
Link |
| 4 | Dr. Ihab Katar |
Construction Management (Digital Twin for Smart Building Design and Management) This project focuses on developing a Digital Twin (DT) model for smart building design and management. The digital replica will integrate IoT sensors, BIM (Building Information Modeling), and AI analytics to monitor and optimize energy consumption, structural health, and indoor environmental conditions. Real-time data will be collected and analyzed to predict system failures, improve efficiency, and support evidence-based decision-making for building maintenance and performance. The project aims to enhance sustainability, efficiency, and operational resilience. |
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| 5 | Dr. Ihab Katar |
Construction Management (Net-Zero Energy Building Design Using Sustainable Materials and AI
Energy Optimization) This project focuses on designing a Net-Zero Energy Building (NZEB) using sustainable materials and integrating AI-based energy optimization systems. The design aims to minimize energy consumption while utilizing renewable energy sources for operational needs. Advanced simulation tools and AI analytics will be used to optimize building performance, ensuring efficient HVAC systems, lighting, and overall energy management. The project emphasizes environmental sustainability, cost-effectiveness, and adaptability to different climatic conditions. |
Link |
| 6 | Dr. Ihab Katar |
Construction Management (Self-Healing Concrete Using AI Analytics) This project focuses on developing self-healing concrete enhanced with AI-driven analytics to predict and monitor crack healing performance. By integrating advanced materials with AI algorithms, the project aims to improve structural durability, reduce maintenance costs, and extend infrastructure lifespan. Data from lab experiments and simulations will be analyzed using AI models to optimize the healing efficiency of concrete under varying environmental and load conditions. The outcomes emphasize sustainability and long-term cost-effectiveness. |
Link |
| 7 | Dr Mahmud T. Nawar |
Integrated Structural Analysis and Design of High-Density Expansion Offices in NEOM City Using Steel Structures NEOM City Project |
Link |
| 8 | Eng. Tae Yi |
Environmental Engineering (Green Building Certification System (LEED) Application and Analysis for PSU Campus Construction Projects) The growth of the green and sustainable building market has been widely publicized recently, accelerated largely by government policies and rising recognition that such buildings are more sustainable, environment-friendly and economical to operate in the building construction industry. The project explores basic knowledge of green building principles and practices on the basis of Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) rating system. The project also studies LEED Score System to evaluate green building design and construction as well as building operation and maintenance, which is categorized in eight basic areas: Location and Transportation, Sustainable Sites, Water Efficiency, Energy and Atmosphere, Materials and Resources, Indoor Environmental Quality, Innovation, Regional Priority. |
Link |
| 9 | Eng. Tae Yi |
Environmental Engineering (3D Modelling and Analysis of PSU Campus Construction Projects Using Building Information Modelling BIM) This project provides students with solid hand-on knowledge about BIM through the understanding of its theoretical and historical backgrounds. Students also work with various software tools to create BIM models that extract quantities for estimation purposes on the basis of input resources as well as that operate construction schedules (4D simulation) for project planning. Furthermore, students experience a virtual construction management process that integrates BIM Model with scheduling and costing, what is called, 5D simulation. |
Link |
Accomplished Projects
| Instructor | Student Names | Project Title | Term | Details | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dr. Mahmoud Nawar | Ammar Al-Dawood, Abdulaziz Al-Jarallah, Abdullah Kalih | Embodied Carbon Reduction of a Trussed Frame Aircraft Maintenance Hangar for Boeing 737 in Neom | 231 | Link | |
| Dr. Mahmoud Nawar | Louai Rahmeh, Alwaleed AL Rasheed, Muhanad Alghamdi | Sustainable and optimal design of single-Span Steel Frame Aircraft Maintenance Hangar for ERJ-145 at NEOM | 231 | Link | |
| Dr. Ezzat Altroush | Ayham Alkayal, Khaled Abujadallah, Abdullah Alshawaf, Khaled Abu Odah | Underground Massive Irrigation Water Tank, CP13 | 232 | Link | |
| Dr. Ihab Katar | Ahmed Abu Al-Qomssan, Abdullah Alanafie, Ghali Alghali | Improving Construction Project Delivery Methods | 241 | Link | |
| Dr. Shabir Hussain | Mohamed Ashraf Ata Abou Tayeh, Zinabdin Riad Jlilati, Mohanad Abdulhalim Bin Nakqeeb | Challenges of Campus Transportation: Parking and Access Delays | 241 | Link | |