Seminario 2: THE ROLE OF WIND ENGINEERING IN THE EVOLUTION OF TALL BUILDINGS

Este seminario será dictado el 3 de diciembre, 20:00-21:00 horas, en el salón de posgrados del IMFIA

Abstract:

From the beginning of the XX century, research in aerodynamics is a cornerstone in the design of the shape of planes, trains, automobiles, sailboats, kites, windmills and other objects that interact with fluids. In this framework, buildings are a clear anomaly: their shape is generally a prerogative of architectural design, while the structural engineer is often limited to take them into account as an element needed to evaluate the actions and effects induced by the wind.

Based on this premise, the engineer then develops a wide range of tools aimed at counteracting aerodynamic actions. At the beginning of the XX century, criteria are developed for the selection of material and robust static conceptions. At the middle of the century the engineer starts to exploit the potential of computers and wind tunnels to pursue rational projects. Later he gives rise to a broad range of devices to dissipate energy through forms of control initially passive, then also active.

The choice of the building shape on the basis of aerodynamic conceptions at the interface between architecture and engineering explodes at the beginning of the new millennium, bringing to light an unlimited number of tall buildings inspired by rigorous optimization strategies. By virtue of these principles, the height and slenderness of buildings undergo explosive growth witnessed by buildings currently under construction and by projects waiting to be realized.