The goal is to enhance PEER research in geographically distributed networks by strategic planning and collaboration with other earthquake centers.

This project will improve capabilities in modeling geographically distributed networks and will enable simulation of performance of those networks. In so doing, PEER will be able to (a) measure performance of a network and (b) identify impacts of individual component performance on the overall system. Both of these outcomes support PEER’s mission in PBEE.

PEER has established a joint coordination committee and will be hiring a consultant to assist in strategic planning and program management. PEER also will support various workshops, including participation of PEER researchers as needed.

During Year 6, PEER has joined MCEER and MAE in a joint strategic planning activity aimed at defining the areas of mutual interest related to research in geographically distributed networks, identifying what research is already under way in each of the three centers, and defining specific areas for future collaboration and coordination. We have identified that the three EERCs are conducting complementary research related to the seismic performance of geographically distributed systems, including highway and railroad networks, electric power distribution systems, and pipeline distribution systems.

Research in this area includes generation and spatial/temporal distribution of earthquake ground motion; site amplification; ground failure including liquefaction, land sliding, and surface faulting; response of geographically distributed facilities and networks; vulnerability assessment and retrofit of networks’ critical components; network flow including effect of post-earthquake demands; direct and indirect loss-assessments; emergency response; and decision-making processes for organizations that operate and/or own lifelines. Solutions of this multi-disciplinary problem may best be accomplished through the development of interlinked modules dealing with aspects of the problem; collaboration in the development of these modules will result in rapid advancement of the field and efficient use of resources of the three centers.

This project will have the following scope:

1. Continue joint strategic planning activities already under way;
2. secure consulting services of coordinator;
3. plan and convene two workshops.

This project coordinates work being done in PEER, MAE, and MCEER.

This project will continue into Year 7 with the same general plan.