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Analytical methods for estimating the wind-induced response of structures
Giovanni Solari 1)
1) DISEG/UGE, Department of Structural and Geotechnical Engineering, University of Genoa
Via Montallegro 1, 16145 Genoa, Italy
INTRODUCTION
Estimating the wind-induced response of structures and, in particular, the maximum response and the equivalent static force is a main topic in the panorama of the research developed in wind engineering over the last 40 years. Analyses are usually carried out through theoretical formulations, numerical algorithms, wind tunnel tests, full-scale experiments and code provisions [1]. A dominant property of modern wind engineering is that accurate analyses of complex problems are seldom possible by using one of these methods and instead they require the joint application of different techniques. For instance, wind tunnel and full-scale experiments frequently provide the input for theoretical solutions, numerical simulations and code provisions; theoretical and numerical methods are often the bases for organising, developing and processing measurements. The growing importance of wind effects on structures, joined with theoretical, computational and instrumental advances, has given great impulse to these techniques; in the meanwhile, the evolution of each technique is linked and even more inspired by the growth of complimentary methods. Refined theoretical formulations and numerical algorithms, for instance, are justified by the improved knowledge of physical phenomena due to experimental progress; the reciprocal tendency occurs since model and full-scale experiments justify their own evolution also due to the growing wealth of theoretical and numerical procedures for analysing and applying their results. In such a context analytical methods have always represented desired objects and delicate tools. They are desired objects since any engineer would like to use simple formulae to solve complex problems without making recourse to sophisticate computer programs and expensive experiments. They are delicate tools since necessarily involve simplified idealiidealisations of the physical reality and thus require an appropriate use that takes into account their basic hypotheses and intrinsic limits. This paper illustrates and discusses the progress and prospects of analytical methods for estimating the wind-induced response of vertical structures (e.g. buildings, towers and chimneys), with particular concern for the research developed at DISEG/UGE. Special attention is given to the direct application of analytical methods in this era of large facilities and supercomputers. Even more attention is dedicated to the integrated procedures that make a joint use of analytical, numerical and experimental techniques for solving complex wind engineering problems.