Recent developments in full-scale wind pressure measurements in Japan

Abstract

Since 1968 quite a few full-scale wind pressure measurements have been conducted in Japan. Sixteen wind pressure measurement projects are examined and their scope and published results are summarised. The number of projects increased in the early 1970's, then suddenly dropped to zero for some years. The variation in the number of presentations at A.I.J. (Architectural Institute of Japan) annual meetings has also followed a similar trend, but with some time lag. In the early stage of projects wind pressure coefficients and the qualitative tendency of the power spectral density distribution where discussed, then the probability density distribution, r.m.s. wind pressure coefficients and coherence characteristics were reported. The most recent two projects, which have started after a six year's pause, focused on the quantitative findings on both power spectral density distribution and coherence characteristics, with some explanation of the possible behavior of turbulent flow around tall buildings. In spite of the amount of observed data, it is still difficult to discuss the accuracy of the wind pressure coefficient. As a result most published papers concluded the importance and the need for further full-scale measurements with a focus on the internal pressure estimation and for comprehensive wind speed profile data on individual site conditions.