Layered Stochastic Approximation Monte-Carlo method for tall building and tower fragility in mixed wind load climates

Abstract

Performance-based wind engineering has emerged as an active research field due to potential applications into design standards [e.g., by the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) in the United States of America]. Therefore, novel and accurate methodologies are necessary to successfully implement practice-oriented guidelines. This study will systematically examine the use of the Layered Stochastic-Approximation Monte-Carlo method, recently explored to assess of wind-induced structural dynamic analysis of vertical structures. The study will utilize a standard tall building and a monopole tower structure to investigate maximum response in terms of lateral displacement and acceleration, and the behavior of a structural member in terms of demand-to-capacity index. Both serviceability and ultimate limit states will be considered. The proposed method will be verified against standard Monte-Carlo sampling to assess its adequacy, accuracy and potential limitations. Particular consideration will be devoted to the study of wind loads and response in mixed wind climates, characterized by the presence of both tropical cyclones (hurricanes) and extra-tropical depressions.