Wind Exposure Risk Assessment Using Proximate Object Density
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for assessing a structure's vulnerability to wind damage are limited as they ignore the effects of proximate objects on wind channeling or diversion and lack flexibility in the breadth of information used.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method and system that analyze the survivability of a structure by determining the density of surrounding objects equal to or greater in height compared to the structure, calculating a risk score for each area segment, and providing an overall wind exposure risk value.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If conventional techniques are used to assess structure vulnerability, then the assessment process is simple, but the assessment completeness is limited because they ignore the effects of proximate objects on wind channeling or diversion
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the surrounding area into multiple radial zones at different distances from the structure (e.g., 0-50 feet, 50-100 feet, etc.). Each zone is independently analyzed for object density and wind impact characteristics. This segmentation allows comprehensive assessment of proximate objects without overwhelming complexity, as each zone can be processed separately and aggregated into an overall risk score.
2Measurement precision
If conventional techniques are used to assess structure vulnerability, then the assessment time is short, but the measurement precision of wind exposure risk is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes multiple parameters simultaneously: it measures object density in different radial zones, calculates wind channeling effects based on object height and proximity, determines object material properties (combustible vs. non-combustible), and computes weighted risk scores. These parameter changes transform a simple vulnerability check into a precise multi-dimensional wind exposure assessment that captures the complex interactions between proximate objects and wind patterns.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional techniques are used to assess structure vulnerability, then the information breadth used is limited, but the ease of operation is maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The system is designed as a universal assessment tool that handles multiple types of proximate objects (trees, buildings, fences, utility poles) with different properties (height, material, distance). It automatically adapts the analysis based on object type and location, calculating appropriate wind channeling and debris projection risks for each scenario. This multi-functionality allows comprehensive information gathering while maintaining ease of operation through automated processing.
Data Source
AI summary
A computer-implemented method for analyzing a survivability of a structure is presented. A distance extending radially from the structure defining an area surrounding the structure may be determined. The area surrounding the structure may be scanned to identify surrounding objects. The area surrounding the structure may then be segmented to create a plurality of area segments. A density of surrounding objects in each of the plurality of area segments may be determined. A risk score for each of the plurality of area segments may then be determined based on the density of surrounding objects in each of the plurality of area segments. An overall wind exposure risk value may be provided for further use.