How do you improve tall building wind performance?

1 Wind tunnel testing

Wind tunnel testing is a physical experiment that simulates the wind effects on a scaled model of a tall building. By measuring the wind forces, pressures, and movements on the model, engineers can evaluate the wind performance of the building and identify potential problems, such as excessive sway, torsion, or flutter. Wind tunnel testing can also help engineers optimize the shape, orientation, and layout of the building to reduce wind loads and improve aerodynamics.

2 Computational fluid dynamics

Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) is a numerical method that uses computer software to model and analyze the flow of air around a tall building. CFD can provide detailed information on the wind patterns, velocities, and pressures on the building surface and its surroundings. CFD can also help engineers test different scenarios, such as varying wind directions, speeds, and gusts, and compare the results with wind tunnel testing. CFD can be used to complement or supplement wind tunnel testing, depending on the complexity and accuracy of the model.

3 Aerodynamic shaping

Aerodynamic shaping is a design strategy that modifies the geometry and features of a tall building to reduce its wind resistance and drag. Aerodynamic shaping can include tapering, twisting, curving, or stepping the building form, as well as adding setbacks, notches, slots, or openings to the building envelope. Aerodynamic shaping can help reduce the wind-induced forces and motions on the building, as well as the wind impacts on the pedestrians and the environment.

4 Damping systems

Damping systems are devices that absorb and dissipate the wind energy that causes vibrations and oscillations in tall buildings. Damping systems can be classified into passive, active, or hybrid systems, depending on the source and control of the damping force. Passive damping systems rely on the inherent properties of the materials or structures, such as friction, viscous fluids, or springs. Active damping systems use sensors, actuators, and controllers to generate and apply counteracting forces. Hybrid damping systems combine both passive and active elements to enhance the damping performance.

5 Wind-responsive facades

Wind-responsive facades are innovative solutions that use smart materials or technologies to adapt to the changing wind conditions and optimize the building performance. Wind-responsive facades can include movable or flexible components, such as louvers, panels, screens, or membranes, that can adjust their position, shape, or orientation to reduce wind loads, control ventilation, or generate energy. Wind-responsive facades can also use sensors, actuators, or algorithms to monitor and respond to the wind data and feedback.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?