Kármán Vortex Street
Version 1.0.0 · Updated 2026-07-30
CORE DEFINITION
When a fluid flows past a cylindrical obstacle, two rows of regular vortices with opposite rotation directions are alternately generated behind the obstacle. These vortices can cause severe vibrations in the object, potentially leading to structural failure such as bridge collapse (e.g., the Tacoma Narrows Bridge).
SCAFFOLDING EFFECT
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Reveals the oscillation risk for followers. As a leader (the obstacle), the "wake" you leave behind as you move forward is not calm but filled with intense fluctuations. Followers or imitators closely behind you may be torn apart by this turbulence you create but cannot see.
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After fluid passes an obstacle, alternating vortices with opposite rotations are shed, forming a periodic wake; followers in the wake experience severe unsteady loads, which may lead to resonance-induced failure (e.g., bridge flutter).
MINIMUM ACTION
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- zh.wikipedia.orghttps://zh.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E5%8D%A1%E9%97%A8%E6%B6%A1%E8%A1%97verified
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