Aerodynamic Optimization of Façade Protrusions in Urban Street Canyons
Urban street canyons significantly influence local airflow, thermal comfort, and pollutant dispersion. Architectural façades, especially those featuring ribs or horizontal protrusions, play a crucial role in modifying these aerodynamic behaviors. Recent studies highlight that geometric parameters of façade elements—such as rib spacing and depth—can alter vortex structures and flow regimes within urban canyons. However, systematic investigations focusing on how these parameters affect turbulence and ventilation efficiency remain limited. This study uses large-eddy simulations (LES) to explore the aerodynamic response of street canyons to varying façade rib geometries, advancing the understanding of wind–structure interactions in dense urban settings.
Influence of Façade Geometry on Urban Aerodynamics
The geometric configuration of façades significantly determines airflow distribution and turbulence intensity around buildings. By analyzing variations in the ratio of rib separation distance to building height (s*) and rib depth to canyon width (d*), this study reveals their distinct aerodynamic impacts. Narrower rib spacing enhances turbulence and improves air exchange rates, while deeper protrusions modulate vortex formation and boundary layer separation. These findings provide essential insights for architects and urban planners to design façades that balance aesthetics with environmental performance.
LES-Based Simulation of Street Canyon Flows
Large-eddy simulation (LES) serves as a powerful computational approach to capture the complex, three-dimensional nature of turbulent flow within urban environments. In this research, optimized domain sizes were determined to ensure computational efficiency while maintaining simulation accuracy. LES effectively resolves energy-containing eddies and identifies the dominant vortex structures influenced by façade geometry. This methodological framework establishes a foundation for future high-fidelity modeling of building-induced turbulence.
Vortex Dynamics and Flow Regime Transitions
The study identifies that the ratio of rib spacing (s*) has a profound influence on the transition between single- and multi-vortex flow regimes in the street canyon. Dense rib configurations (s* ≤ 0.083) generate strong secondary vortices between protrusions, intensifying the overall airflow and increasing mean velocity magnitudes by up to 36%. Such flow transitions highlight the sensitivity of canyon aerodynamics to subtle geometric variations, offering a new understanding of how façade designs can be leveraged for improved natural ventilation.
Comparative Effects of Rib Spacing and Depth
While both s* and d* affect the aerodynamic behavior, their impacts differ in magnitude. Rib spacing primarily dictates the number and strength of central vortices, while protrusion depth mainly influences the upper vortex and recirculation zones. The study concludes that optimizing s* yields more significant improvements in ventilation efficiency compared to adjusting d*. This comparative analysis aids in prioritizing design parameters that most effectively enhance airflow in urban street canyons.
Architectural Implications for Sustainable Urban Design
The aerodynamic insights derived from this study extend beyond fluid mechanics to architectural and environmental applications. Designing façades with optimized protrusion geometries can enhance natural ventilation, mitigate heat accumulation, and reduce energy consumption in high-density cities. The integration of aerodynamic considerations into architectural design not only improves urban air quality but also aligns with sustainable development goals, bridging engineering precision with architectural creativity.
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