oq-gem

Glossary for gem taxonomy

Authors: Luke Allen, Andrew Charleson, Svetlana Brzev, and Charles Scawthorn

This online Glossary explains around 400 terms contained in the GEM Building Taxonomy v 2.0 and nearly 700 images.

The terms have been listed in alphabetical and numerical order. Text description of each term is accompanied by illustrations (photos and/or drawings) where possible.

We welcome contributions in the form of photographs or images, illustrating glossary terms. If you have any questions you can also contact us at buildingtaxonomy@globalquakemodel.org


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X-shape [PLFX]

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The footprint of the building when viewed in plan resembles the shape of the letter X.

Note that this also includes crucifom-shaped plans (resembling the "+" sign).

PLFX_Vancouver_Canada_Googleearth_1

A building with X-shaped plan, Vancouver, Canada (Map data ©2013 Google, Province of British Columbia, DigitalGlobe, IMTCAN)

PLFX_Japan_Scawthorn&Googleearth_1

A building with cruciform-shaped plan, Clock Tower Building, Kyoto University, Japan (left: Map data ©2013 Google, ZENRIN; right: C. Scawthorn)