Wind Drag Within Simulated Forest Canopies

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Abstract
The local drag coefficients, aerodynamic roughness and wind velocity profiles were studied for a simulated tree-forest canopy. Furthermore, a brushy canopy was investigated which simulated the leafy portion of a forest without the tree trunks present. Based on the information obtained, it is feasible to establish the relation between model and prototype canopies for flow characteristics. In the course of this study a shear plate was developed which reliably measures a drag force of from 0.1 to 2000 gm. The function of this plate was successfully validated by force calibration and by testing it in a turbulent flow over a smooth surface. The plate was then used to measure directly the drag forces within the canopies. Abstract The local drag coefficients, aerodynamic roughness and wind velocity profiles were studied for a simulated tree-forest canopy. Furthermore, a brushy canopy was investigated which simulated the leafy portion of a forest without the tree trunks present. Based on the information obtained, it is feasible to establish the relation between model and prototype canopies for flow characteristics. In the course of this study a shear plate was developed which reliably measures a drag force of from 0.1 to 2000 gm. The function of this plate was successfully validated by force calibration and by testing it in a turbulent flow over a smooth surface. The plate was then used to measure directly the drag forces within the canopies.

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