Classification and pedestrian-level wind environment assessment among Tianjin's residential area based on numerical simulation

Abstract

In this study, Tianjin's 36 practical residential areas were classified into four main categories and nine subcategories of layout modes based on actual planning methods. The wind conditions of each layout mode were evaluated with ENVI-met software and compared using three wind environment factors: wind speed, calm wind area ratio and wind speed dispersion. Further, correlations between spatial morphological factors and wind environment factors were established. Results indicate that the classification method of layout modes used in this study can fully reflect spatial differences between real residential areas. From comparison of the three wind environment factors, the mid-rise enclosed mode was found to exhibit the worst wind environment due to its low wind speed while the mid-rise parallel and mid high-rise modes are recommended as the most suitable for Tianjin's climate. The wind environment of high-rise layout modes are not as favourable as the wind environments of the mid-rise and mid high-rise modes. Frontal area density and average building height are shown to be key spatial morphological factors which affect the pedestrian-level wind environment. They can be used in residential planning practices to improve the wind condition. This research presents an opportunity to assist urban planners and researchers in developing a comprehensive understanding of pedestrian-level wind conditions in different residential layout modes.