CIVIC-FA Track A: Co-created Digital Twins for Heat-resilient Home Rehab Co-design

NSF Award Search · 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT · $700,000 · view on nsf.gov ↗

Abstract

The objective of this Civic Innovation Challenge (CIVIC) project is to support research on developing and piloting 3D digital models of homes for simulating how extreme heat behaves indoors and outdoors. Built out of collaboration with local households, these models look to help identify areas most affected by heat and allow testing of different solutions, such as shading, ventilation, or material upgrades. Extreme heat is one of the deadliest natural hazards in the United States, and its impacts are intensifying due to urban expansion. In neighborhoods like Westside in San Antonio, Texas, many homes -- especially those built before modern energy codes -- lack proper insulation and cooling systems, making them vulnerable during prolonged periods of high temperatures. This project looks to create a shared platform for residents and city partners to explore retrofit options, assess energy use, and make informed decisions about home improvements. By connecting scientific tools with real-world decision-making, it aims to demonstrate how translational research reduces disaster risks and supports long-term planning in housing and infrastructure. It seeks to serve as a model that other neighborhoods can adapt to similar challenges. This pilot project implements and evaluates co-creation of digital twins for enrolled homes in San Antonio’s Westside neighborhood. Digital twins are 3D, data-enriched models created using low-cost LiDAR sensors via smartphones and validated with prof

Key facts

NSF award ID
2526487
Awardee
University of Texas at San Antonio (TX)
SAM.gov UEI
U44ZMVYU52U6
PI
Wei Zhai
Primary program
01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
All programs
CIVIL INFRASTRUCTURE, S&CC: Smart and Connected Communities, CIVIL INFRASTRUCTURE
Estimated total
$700,000
Funds obligated
$700,000
Transaction type
Standard Grant
Period
09/01/2025 → 10/31/2025