Prediction of wind-induced response of a semi-rigid hanging roof

Abstract This paper describes a large-span structure with a new structural system comprising a semi-rigid (flexible) hanging roof composed of glulams and steel plates. As this roof has low stiffness and small mass, it vibrates and deforms rather easily. Therefore, establishing a rational wind-resistant design is important in evaluating its dynamic response induced by fluctuating wind forces. Geometrical non-linearity must also be considered in evaluating the roofs response. In this study, first, wind-pressure tunnel tests were conducted to investigate the characteristics of fluctuating wind pressures action on the roof. Second, a response analysis taking into account geometrical non-linearity of the roof was carried out using ADINA (Automatic Dynamic Incremental Non-linear Analysis) to evaluate both static and dynamic response induced by static or fluctuating wind force. Finally, a ratio of maximum to mean axial force is proposed as a wind load effect coefficient instead of a gust factor for general buildings.