Along-Wind Response of Large Bluff Buildings

The load-velocity relationship for large bluff buildings subjected to dynamic wind excitation is investigated. Using experimental results for the correlation structure of turbulent wind flow, an aerodynamic load admittance function for the along-wind response is developed. For numerical evaluation, the momentum approach, proposed by Vickery and Davenport in 1966-67, is applied, and the results are compared with existing experimental data. Apparently there is good agreement. In this connection, the complexity of the flow and pressure pattern about a large building is briefly commented upon and new avenues of research are indicated. Evaluation of maximum response peaks for incorporation into a gust factor is given and the influence of the broadness of the spectrum of the response and excitation processes is studied.