Computational Wind Tunnel Analyses for Large Domes Using CFD Theory

Dynamic response of large complex dome structures under wind loading is important in terms of performance and safety. Conventional methods of wind loading calculation have been used successfully in codes to analyse large space structures. The method can be performed by approximating the air pressure, induced by wind, on the surfaces of structures. Although this replaces a wind loading test using a complicated wind tunnel test for any structural systems, the accuracy of the method, in the case of complex geometry structures, is a matter of consideration. Hence, it is desirable to search for a procedure with more accuracy and reliability. In this respect, attention is paid to advanced computational fluid dynamics (CFD), which benefits from the accurate mathematical differential equations. The use of the advanced CFD analysis can help engineers to design a complex structure, like a large dome, with a lower cost and lower weight. Using a computer program, the proposed formulation has been used to create a computational wind tunnel to derive the pressure loading on structures.