Lattice tower dynamic response calculation to human induced loads: case study

A step by step algorithm of light-weight lattice tower dynamic response calculation method to typical human induced time varying horizontal loads is presented in this work for the first time. The developed algorithm of the method is based on the researches presented in the previous works of the authors on the subject. The calculation method itself is based on the generally accepted design processes for low frequency structures when it is convenient to consider the maximum level of the resonant response that can be induced by a person under repeated footfall and to limit it to the acceptable level. The algorithm was applied to find theoretically the peak acceleration amplitudes of vibration on an actual 36 m high light-weight lattice observation tower in Jurmala, Latvia with eccentric structural configuration. The theoretically obtained results showed good agreement with the experimental data found in previous experiments. The calculation algorithm could be considered as a useful tool for the structural designers when undertaking the design of light-weight slender public observation towers.