Wind Resistance Evaluation of Existing Standing Buddha Statue Using 3D Laser Scanning and CFD

Underestimating the aerodynamic forces acting on structures can lead to them sustaining severe damage. Currently, there are limited studies on the wind flow around complex-shaped tall structures such as the Buddha statue (Monywa, Myanmar) and the aerodynamic forces acting on them. This study discusses the applicability of three-dimensional (3D) terrestrial laser scanning in the 3D modeling of an existing complex-shaped standing Buddha statue. This study also aims to shed light on the wind resistance evaluation for the maintenance of a contemporary standing Buddha statue. Large-eddy simulation (LES), a turbulence model used in computational fluid dynamics, was utilized to calculate the wind flow around it. The results showed that there was no recirculation region at its top. The horseshoe vortex moved closer to the Buddha statue as the angle of attack (AOA) increased. However, the size of the wake region decreased. Sudden changes in the aerodynamic force coefficients and Strouhal number were observed in the Buddha statue-owing to vortices caused by the cross-sectional variations in shape and a setback. Finally, the most vulnerable parts of the Buddha statue that might require optimal maintenance and renovation are mentioned. Results from this study can be used in developing maintenance techniques for similar complex-shaped structures.