Aerodynamic optimization of tall building designs to mitigate wind-induced vibrations
Keywords:
Aerodynamic optimization methods, Wind-induced building vibrations, Super high-rise structures, Wind effects on buildingsAbstract
This study examines aerodynamic optimization methods aimed at alleviating wind-induced building vibrations associated with tall buildings, which have become more important as the proliferation of super high-rise structures has occurred in congested urban surroundings. Wind effects on buildings have a significant impact on the structural security, human comfort and building performance. This research employed several design modifications based on CFD simulations, wind tunnel tests and a real-world case study including changes in building form and orientation, surface roughness improvements (canopies), and use of damping devices. Our results suggest that rounded corners, twisting ascent shapes and chamfered edges decrease the wind forces affecting these structures by a large margin, with whole structure rotations on different axes reducing resistance to winds compared to blowing at each face (Fig 5). Heightened vibration amplitudes could be dramatically muted with controlled take-up mass dampers (TMDs). While this work conclusively demonstrates the efficacy of these methods and builds on previous research, it critically provides an in-depth investigation into optimisation techniques necessary for contemporary tall building design with increasingly challenging dynamical wind environments.
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