RWDI’s ‘toolbox’ consists of sophisticated technologies that are geared to providing unequaled answers, reducing risk and saving clients money.

A number of creative teams have been developed at RWDI to utilize the various technologies with experience and skill. 

Through RWDI, clients make more informed decisions and achieve greater success in their projects.

Wind Tunnels

Owning and operating four boundary layer wind tunnels makes RWDI the largest privately owned wind engineering consultancy in the world.

In addition, we utilize public wind tunnels for special testing requirements.

CFD Modellling

CFD Modelling - Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) is a computer modeling technique for simulating fluid flow.

RWDI uses proprietary and commercially available CFD codes for a variety of applications to best match project needs.  

Computer Cluster

For computationally intensive modeling applications, RWDI draws on the power of our 160 CPU, high-performance scalable Beowulf Linux cluster -- professionally designed and custom built for our advanced modeling needs.

Motion Simulator

The Motion Simulator is used as a Performance-Based Design tool to define a suitable target performance level for the dynamic behavior of occupied structures (such as building, bridges, floor systems, etc).   

In the simulator, the design team can accurately replicate and explore true-to-life motions  for a range of design scenarios.

Data Mining

Having had experience with physical and analytical modeling on thousands of projects worldwide, RWDI has accumulated a tremendous data resource that helps clients receive high quality consulting services that lead to faster consultations, improved designs and cost savings.

This data can be 'mined' for similar projects allowing RWDI consultants to review the original tests and reanalyze the data in combination with site-specific properties (e.g., shape, weather climate) to predict results for a proposed project at the new location.

This approach works well for the first-order estimates needed early in the design process and helps substantiate the experience of our consultants.

Model Shops

RWDI has models shops in three of its locations that keep four boundary layer wind tunnels operating. 

The skilled modeling staff of each shop are trained in 3D computer applications, physical scale model construction and model instrumentation.

Monitoring + Measurement

For an existing structure, the best way to quantify, qualify and validate performance is to study the structure itself.

RWDI has a full suite of monitoring and measurement capabilities for short term, long term and permanent installations. 

Through discussion with one of RWDI’s experts, the best method of assessment can be selected.

Water Flume

Soon after the development of the water flume technique to simulate winds and drifting snow conditions, RWDI began providing consulting services to clients. 

A water flume is a specifically designed tank that introduces fine sand into deep flowing water that envelops a scale model of buildings and roads to simulate the effects of wind and blowing snow.