Wind-induced dynamic response and its load estimation for structural frames of single-layer latticed domes with long spans

Abstract

The main purpose of this study is to discuss the design wind loads for the structural frames of single-layer latticed domes with long spans. First, wind pressures are measured simultaneously at many points on dome models in a wind tunnel. Then, the dynamic response of several models is analyzed in the time domain, using the pressure data obtained from the wind tunnel experiment. The nodal displacements and the resultant member stresses are computed at each time step. The results indicate that the dome`s dynamic response is generally dominated by such vibration modes that contribute to the static response significantly. Furthermore, the dynamic response is found to be almost quasi-static. Then, a series of quasi-static analyses, in which the inertia and damping terms are neglected, is made for a wide range of the dome`s geometry. Based on the results, a discussion is made of the design wind load. It is found that a gust effect factor approach can be used for the load estimation. Finally, an empirical formula for the gust effect factor and a simple model of the pressure coefficient distribution are provided.