Using ASD, is there another reason to check transient/LL deflection other than serviceability issue?

[structure567]

Sorry if this is a stupid question but I was just really curious. If I were to just place a cantilever column for aesthetic purposes on the ground with only wind load being applied, is there another reason to check for deflections for the column if I used ASD load combinations?

 

[r13]

If you consider "aesthetic" is a service criterion, then, no. Otherwise, yes, you need to check deflection against your purpose.

 

[Ron247]

If it is there for aesthetics only, I see no reason to check deflection unless it can deflect enough to hit something that is not for aesthetics only. It is like a man-made tree.

 

[phamENG]

What's it made of? If it's concrete, you may want to control deflection to minimize cracking which could have a negative aesthetic impact.

 

[sandman21]

Man-made trees are checked for deflection

 

[r13]

Man-made trees are checked for deflection

I was joking in my response. But I like this one better Is that for real?

 

[sandman21]

Yes, we do a bunch of man-made trees.

 

[Ron247]

To me, man-made trees are not critical. It can move more than the code allows. It is not a structural element. So it moves, more than the code allows, big deal. Code allowed movement has to do with damage or fear of failure from the movement. Check the code on a clothes line pole. If it exceeds the allowed, is it a structural problem?

 

[12345abc6ttyui67]

Doesn't sound applicable to this hypothetical problem, but don't forget about pDelta affects for displacements.

 

[r13]

don't forget about pDelta affects for displacements.

Topple my thought

A man made tree maybe required to ensure the deflection does not affect the aesthetic looking the user had in mind, and stability. I would be upset if having a tilted X-mas tree in front of my house, not to mention tipped over and hitting the neighbor's car.