Aeolian Towers: Designing Aerodynamics

Abstract

Acknowledging the necessity of designing structures that comply with environmental factors, the main objective of the current project is the morphological investigation of a sustainable dual-tower complex. Considering the force of wind as a basic design parameter, the importance of every design decision is evaluated by calculating its impact on the structure's performance over its life cycle. Since wind simulation could certify the effectiveness of design techniques that aim to streamline a structure's form, the proposed approach utilizes computational fluid dynamics (CFD) for the objective and scientific assessment of the complex's aerodynamic behavior. By altering the design based on the results and comparing the differences of critical variables such as wind velocity, loading and pressure distribution, significant results are extracted. The simulation of the flow field of the final design certifies that the wind's impact is substantially diminished. Along with a notable decrease in wind velocity and loading, informed decision making takes place and quality enhancement of the urban environment is ultimately achieved. Thereby, wind's significance as a basic parameter in high-rise design is highlighted. The concept of wind design can, at this point, be further extended. In addition to defining the form of the building's envelope, energy harnessing techniques are introduced. To ensure its sustainability a nanotechnology-based grid that consists of micro wind turbines is annexed to the structure. For the towers' cladding, glass that incorporates solar panel technology is also being used, transforming the facades into solar energy collectors. The introduced approach aims at optimizing the complex's aerodynamic behavior while accomplishing sustainability and energy self-reliance. Although the results are case sensitive, useful design methodologies and techniques can be extracted as guidelines that could assist in future design projects.