CAREER: Progressive Collapse Analysis and Stochastic Wind Pattern Modeling for Transmission Tower-Line System Design

NSF Award Search · 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT · $599,290 · view on nsf.gov ↗

Abstract

This Faculty Early Career Development (CAREER) award will support research aimed to address critical needs for designing safer high-voltage transmission tower-line (TTL) systems that sustain power delivery during extreme wind events, such as hurricanes and tropical storms. Current industry standards rely on static, averaged wind load assumptions that oversimplify the unpredictable and complex nature of wind loads. This research project will challenge these assumptions by introducing innovative random wind load models that capture distinctive collapse mechanisms of TTL systems. By integrating these wind load models into advanced computational simulations of how tower failures propagate under wind-induced collapse, the research intends to advance the design and risk assessment of TTL systems. The outcomes of this work intend to provide safer, more robust power grid infrastructure, enhancing energy security and reducing blackout risks during hurricanes. Broader impacts will include the development of educational resources that promote hands-on, experiential learning in wind engineering design. By advancing the technical design of transmission towers and integrating the research with educational and outreach activities, this project will promote the national welfare in energy security, infrastructure resilience, and workforce development. This project will contribute to NSF's role in the National Windstorm Impact Reduction Program (NWIRP). The specific goal of the research is

Key facts

NSF award ID
2440984
Awardee
University of Florida (FL)
SAM.gov UEI
NNFQH1JAPEP3
PI
Ge Ou
Primary program
01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
All programs
CIVIL INFRASTRUCTURE, STRUCTURAL SYSTEMS, Haz mitigation of structural sys, HAZARD AND DISASTER REDUCTION, CAREER-Faculty Erly Career Dev, CIS BASE RESEARCH, CYBERINFRASTRUCTURE, WOMEN, MINORITY, DISABLED, NEC
Estimated total
$599,290
Funds obligated
$599,290
Transaction type
Standard Grant
Period
06/15/2025 → 05/31/2030