Innovative design of façade elements to limit wind-induced noise in buildings

Wind-induced noise is often overlooked in building design. This noise can be generated by wind blowing across façade elements or through the various gaps inside buildings. Noise generated by wind-affected façade elements, particularly at higher wind speeds, has received increasing attention since the 2010s. In this paper a comprehensive literature review is carried out to draw general rules for limiting wind-induced noise in buildings. Next, an innovative design was proposed by Metravib Engineering for the Rabat Ibn Sina hospital designed by AIA Ingénierie. A dynamic analysis of these sunshades was then verified using the finite element method to ensure there was no vibro-acoustic coupling between wind excitation and the sunshade's structural modes. Finally, wind tunnel tests confirmed that the noise induced by these façade elements was under control and did not cause any particular annoyance.