UTD Wind's Research Revolutionizing Offshore Wind Turbine Maintenance Safety

(from left to right) Mechanical engineering professors Dr. Todd Griffith, Dr. Mario Rotea and Dr. Jie Zhang are working to develop remote-monitoring technology for offshore wind farms as part of a federal initiative funded through the Ocean Energy Safety Institute.

The University of Texas at Dallas' Wind Energy Center, UTD Wind, is leading a pivotal project to enhance safety for deepwater divers responsible for maintaining offshore wind turbines. With $500,000 in funding over one year as part of a $2.7 million federal effort by the Ocean Energy Safety Institute, the project focuses on developing remote-monitoring technologies to mitigate risks faced by divers, including extreme temperatures and encounters with marine life. Commencing in March, the project aims to create digital twins—virtual models of wind turbines—to simulate various operational scenarios and environmental conditions, facilitating the identification of potential hazards. Advanced algorithms will then analyze simulation data to detect early signs of equipment malfunction or structural issues, empowering divers and maintenance crews to proactively address risks and ensure the safety and efficiency of offshore wind farm operations.