Factors Affecting Beam Design and Structural Design in Commercial and High-Rise Buildings: Drift and Acceleration
Another factor that plays into the beam design and structural design of commercial and high-rise buildings is drift. Drift is defined as the ratio of the building deflection over its height. Structural engineers must also take into consideration building acceleration when designing beams for commercial and high-rise buildings. Building acceleration is a measure of the speed with which drift occurs. This plays a critical role in the stability of a high-rise structure.