Structure And System Design
Subsystems - Outline Of Physical Considerations - Structural Support - Lighting

Subsystems:

1. Elevators
2. Transformer Stations
3. Communication Networks
4. Air ducts
5. Sewage-treatment plants
6. The multi-level base structure
7. The facilities for manufacturing

And it requires analysis of how these can contribute to the fundamental functions (systems) of the city:

Fundamental Needs:

1. Air
2. Food
3. Water
4. Shelter
5. Movement
6. Communication
7. Work (effort, cost, convenience)
8. Leisure

By plotting a table regarding the relevance of subsystems of a Compact City to general city functions, on a scale of 1-5, we have come up with the subsystems and their importance / effect on different aspects.

Effect
On
Subsystem
Reducing Delays
Controlling Climate
Saving Labour
Low City Cost
City shape and size
5
5
5
5
Around-the-clock Operations
5
-
3
4
Primary Power Sources
-
3
5
2
Secondary Power Sources
5
-
-
-
Vertical Transport
5
-
-
1
Horizontal Transport
5
-
-
1
Air Conditioning
-
5
2
1


The above table ranks subsystems with numbers from zero to five and helps in a qualitative way to indicate the relevance of various subsystems to the general functions. For example, as far as the goal of interior climate control is concerned, elevators ranked 0 (low) but air conditioning ranks 5 (high). However, for transportation the elevator is ranked very important (5), but cost is not the overriding factor in making decisions about vertical transport since the elevator is one of the lifelines of the city, so in terms of its relevance to the low cost of the city, it was assigned a low rank. The three-dimensional structural design and shape for a Compact City can greatly affect transportation, cost, climate, and labour savings by eliminating delays. Organizing time so as to avoid congestion due to peak loads can contribute to the available of transportation, save labour costs, and reduce dramatically the cost of facilities. The secondary power sources are highly relevant to reducing delays because vertical transport can be called upon for emergency evacuation. Evaluations similar to those stated, but on a more detailed quantitative basis can be used as part of a total-system model to develop the best of various alternative plans and a detailed schedule of the quantity and timing of activities necessary to build the city.

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