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RWDI specializes in studying the interaction of tall buildings and wind with its wind tunnels, model building facility and extensive instrumentation. The firm deals with such structures on a worldwide basis, offering architects and engineers assistance in the design of wall cladding, roof systems, building motions and structural systems. The firm also studies the various impacts of new buildings on their surroundings in terms of wind and sun / shade.
Internal Thermal ComfortCooling large spaces can be a challenge, especially sun-filled glazed atria or courtyards. RWDI can assess this impact and help mitigate problems affecting the comfort of the guests.
Wind LoadingMajor structures require accurate information for local wind loads, suctions or pressures to assist in the design of roofs and curtain-wall systems, soffits, and skylights as well as building intakes, exhausts, and doorways.
Wind-Induced VibrationTall buildings require detailed wind load distributions for use in structural design, for predicting wind-induced motions and structural loads. Aeroelastic instabilities must be identified and solutions to vibration problems developed.
Pedestrian ComfortTall buildings can create uncomfortable and unsafe wind conditions at doorways, on pedestrian routes, and in plazas. Wind breaks, screens and even minor modifications to the design of a structure can improve wind conditions.
Sun/Shade/GlareShadows from buildings are potential impacts on comfort levels and aesthetics while glare from building finishes can affect traffic or pilots.
Acoustics / NoiseExternal environmental noise, acoustics in auditoriums, conference rooms and atriums, and mechanical ambient noise carried through walls, floors, and ceilings, all have an impact on the comfortable use of a building by occupants. Today's multipurpose facilities require functional acoustics for a wide variety of events. Optimal amounts of placement of sound absorptive finishes enhance speech intelligibility and music uses, while background noise from crowds and/or mechanical systems. Floor vibration should also be addressed to avoid uncomfortable, perceptible motion.
Air Quality / VentilationAir quality impacts from outdoor sources such as parking facilities, local traffic, loading docks, and diesel generators must be taken into account when designing fresh air intakes. Correct design of interior ventilation systems in terms of temperature and air flow is important for economic operation of air conditioning and heating systems.
Smoke Controlin the event of a fire, is also an important design consideration.
Snow and IceIn winter climates, ice and snow accumulation on glazed surfaces or building details can be a potential hazard when temperatures change.
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