Field Measurements of Dynamic Characteristics and Wind-Induced Response of a Large-Span Roof Structure

Abstract

This paper presents some selected results obtained from the field measurements of wind effects on Guangzhou International Sports Arena (GISA) during the passage of Typhoon Fanapi in September, 2010. The field data such as wind speed, wind direction and acceleration responses, etc., were simultaneously and continuously recorded during the typhoon. The measured acceleration data are analyzed to obtain the information on dynamic characteristics and wind-induced response of the large-span roof structure. The first four natural frequencies and vibration mode shapes of the roof are identified on the basis of the field measurements using the stochastic subspace identification (SSI) method and comparisons with those calculated from the computational model of the roof are made. The damping ratios of the roof are also identified by the SSI method and compared with those estimated by the random decrement method, and the amplitude-dependent damping characteristics are presented and discussed. Furthermore, the field measurement results are compared with the wind tunnel test results to examine the accuracy of the model test results and the adequacy of the techniques used in wind tunnel tests.