Structural resilience of skylights with perforated panels in healthcare facilities: a case study

This study investigates the structural resilience of skylights integrated with perforated aluminum panels (Mashrabiya) in healthcare facilities under arid climate conditions. This study is based on a real, constructed skylight system installed in a healthcare facility, offering a rare field-based assessment rather than a purely theoretical or simulated model. The motivation behind this work stems from the need for energy-efficient, structurally robust, and aesthetically appealing skylight systems capable of withstanding extreme wind loads. Unlike conventional skylight studies, this research introduces a comprehensive numerical modelling approach in SAP2000 that incorporates nonlinear geometric effects, second-order buckling analysis, and stress concentration factors for perforated panels. The study evaluates deflections, stresses, and demand-to-capacity ratios (DCRs) under a wind load of 1.2 kPa, in accordance with local Standards. A key novelty of this study is the integration of perforated panels as both aesthetic and functional elements, enhancing structural performance by dissipating wind-induced stresses. The results indicate that the maximum DCR is 0.46, ensuring a significant safety margin, while the perforated panels exhibit a maximum stress of 41.05 MPa, well below the allowable limit of 160 MPa. Additionally, a mesh sensitivity analysis was conducted to optimise computational accuracy while balancing efficiency. The perforated aluminium panels (Mashrabiya) serve a dual function, enhancing aesthetics and acting as structural elements to redistribute and dissipate wind-induced stresses, a novel approach in skylight system design. This research advances wind-resistant façade design in arid climates by offering practical recommendations for optimising skylight configurations. Future work should focus on experimental validation through wind testing, real-time load monitoring, and parametric studies to support further structural optimisation. Unlike prior parametric or purely analytical works, this paper is based on a field‑installed skylight structure, using full‑scale geometry and validated against site‑measured boundary conditions. The study bridges the gap between experimental contexts and numerical modelling, thereby offering both practical and methodological novelty.