Mode Shape Corrections for Wind Load Effects

Traditionally, wind analysis procedures based on the “gust loading factor” approach and experimental techniques involving the high frequency base balance and the “stick-type” aeroelastic model test have assumed ideal structural mode shapes, i.e., linear lateral modes and uniform torsional modes. The influence of nonideal mode shapes manifests itself through modifications in the generalized wind load, the structural displacement, the equivalent static wind load (ESWL), and the attendant influence function. This has led to the introduction of several correction procedures, each focusing on an individual feature of the overall response analysis framework. This paper presents a systematic development of correction procedures in terms of correction factors (CFs) to account for nonideal mode shapes in the formulation of generalized load, analysis of structural response, and the derivation of the ESWL. A parameter study is conducted to examine the significance of CFs in estimating various load effects. It is observed that the influence of a nonideal mode shape is actually negligible for the displacement response and the base bending moment, but not so for other load effects, e.g., the base shear and the generalized wind load. Although the existing procedures are effective in correcting the intended response component, they should not be used indiscriminately for other load effects. This paper also presents a correction procedure for the influence of mode shapes on the ESWLs, a loading format that is very attractive for implementation in codes and standards and design practice as well as for the correct interpretation of wind tunnel measurements.