Aerodynamic Properties of Urban Areas Derived from Analysis of Surface Form

Aerodynamic Properties of Urban Areas Derived from Analysis of Surface Form

SEPTEMBER 1999 | C. S. B. GRIMMOND, T. R. OKE
This paper discusses the aerodynamic properties of urban areas derived from surface form analysis. It considers various methods to estimate zero-plane displacement length (z_d) and roughness length (z_0), which are key parameters in understanding urban wind and turbulence behavior. The study uses geographic information systems (GIS) to analyze the morphometry of 11 sites in seven North American cities, focusing on the height, shape, and spatial distribution of roughness elements like buildings and trees. The results show that z_d and z_0 values vary significantly depending on urban roughness density, with most methods falling within a reasonable range of values. However, the data from wind and turbulence observations are limited, making it difficult to validate the morphometric algorithms. The study also highlights the importance of considering factors such as element shape, street geometry, and wind direction in estimating aerodynamic parameters. The paper compares different morphometric methods, including height-based approaches, methods using plan areal fraction (λ_p), and methods considering frontal area index (λ_f). It concludes that while morphometric methods provide useful estimates, they should be used in conjunction with wind-based methods to ensure accuracy. The study recommends that the choice of method for estimating z_d and z_0 in urban areas should be based on the specific characteristics of the site and its likely magnitude. The results show that the aerodynamic characteristics of cities can be predicted using morphometric methods, but further research is needed to refine these estimates and improve their accuracy.This paper discusses the aerodynamic properties of urban areas derived from surface form analysis. It considers various methods to estimate zero-plane displacement length (z_d) and roughness length (z_0), which are key parameters in understanding urban wind and turbulence behavior. The study uses geographic information systems (GIS) to analyze the morphometry of 11 sites in seven North American cities, focusing on the height, shape, and spatial distribution of roughness elements like buildings and trees. The results show that z_d and z_0 values vary significantly depending on urban roughness density, with most methods falling within a reasonable range of values. However, the data from wind and turbulence observations are limited, making it difficult to validate the morphometric algorithms. The study also highlights the importance of considering factors such as element shape, street geometry, and wind direction in estimating aerodynamic parameters. The paper compares different morphometric methods, including height-based approaches, methods using plan areal fraction (λ_p), and methods considering frontal area index (λ_f). It concludes that while morphometric methods provide useful estimates, they should be used in conjunction with wind-based methods to ensure accuracy. The study recommends that the choice of method for estimating z_d and z_0 in urban areas should be based on the specific characteristics of the site and its likely magnitude. The results show that the aerodynamic characteristics of cities can be predicted using morphometric methods, but further research is needed to refine these estimates and improve their accuracy.
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