Calculator Inputs
Example Data Table
| Wind (km/h) | Gust factor | Height (m) | Width (m) | Base (cm) | Mass (kg) | Soil | Support | Typical outcome |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 30 | 1.20 | 1.2 | 0.7 | 30 | 14 | Medium | None | Varies by canopy and exposure settings |
| 45 | 1.35 | 1.8 | 1.0 | 35 | 18 | Medium | Single stake | Varies by canopy and exposure settings |
| 60 | 1.50 | 2.2 | 1.2 | 45 | 30 | Firm | Guy lines | Varies by canopy and exposure settings |
Tip: copy a row into the form, then adjust exposure and support to compare scenarios.
Formula Used
1) Effective wind speed
V_eff = V × gust_factor × exposure_factor
2) Wind pressure (dynamic pressure)
q = 0.613 × V_eff² (V in m/s, q in N/m²)
3) Projected area and wind force
A = height × width × shape_factor × leaf_factor
F = q × Cd × A
4) Overturning moment
M_overturn = F × (height × center_pressure_factor)
5) Resisting moment and safety factor
M_resist = mass × g × (base_diameter/2) × (soil × moisture × slope × support)
Safety Factor (SF) = M_resist / M_overturn
This tool is a planning aid. Real plants vary by stiffness, root structure, and turbulence. When high winds are expected, use conservative inputs and add safety margin.
How to Use This Calculator
- Enter sustained wind speed and select the correct unit.
- Set a gust factor to represent peak gusts.
- Measure plant height and canopy width facing the wind.
- Select canopy shape, leaf state, and drag profile.
- Provide base diameter and stabilizing mass (pot+soil+plant).
- Choose soil firmness, moisture, slope, and support method.
- Press Calculate to view risk and recommendations.
- Use the download buttons to save CSV or PDF reports.