Search NASA⌕ Search

SEARCH · Search NASA

Results for “Worth”

Search indexed NASA NTRS and DOE OSTI research on propulsion, heat transfer, battery materials and energy systems. Follow report and document links to the original sources.

Quote a phrase for an exact phrase match. Source license links do not imply unrestricted reuse.

At least 181 records · Page 10

Systematic study of projection biases in weak lensing analysis

We present a systematic study of projection biases in the weak lensing analysis of the first year of data from the Dark Energy Survey (DES) experiment. In the analysis we used a $\Lambda$CDM model and three two-point correlation functions. We show that these biases are a consequence of projecting, or marginalizing, over parameters like $h$, $\Omega_b$, $n_s$ and $\Omega_\nu h^2$ that are both poorly constrained and correlated with the parameters of interest like $\Omega_m$, $\sigma_8$ and $S_8$. Covering the relevant parameter space we show that the projection biases are a function of where the true values of the poorly constrained parameters lie with respect to the parameter priors. For example, biases in the position of the posteriors can exceed the 1.5$\sigma$ level if the true values of $h$ and $n_s$ are close to the top of the prior's range and the true values of $\Omega_b$ and $\Omega_\nu h^2$ are close to the bottom of the range of their priors. We also show that in some cases the 1D credible intervals can be over-specified by as much as 30% and coverage can be as low as 27%. Finally we estimate these projection biases for the analysis of three and six years worth of DES data.

79 ASTRONOMY AND ASTROPHYSICS↗

Broadband X-ray ptychography using multi-wavelength algorithm

Ptychography is a rapidly developing scanning microscopy which is able to view the internal structures of samples at a high resolution beyond the illumination size. The achieved spatial resolution is theoretically dose-limited. A broadband source can provide much higher flux compared with a monochromatic source; however, it conflicts with the necessary coherence requirements of this coherent diffraction imaging technique. In this paper, a multi-wavelength reconstruction algorithm has been developed to deal with the broad bandwidth in ptychography. Compared with the latest development of mixed-state reconstruction approach, this multi-wavelength approach is more accurate in the physical model, and also considers the spot size variation as a function of energy due to the chromatic focusing optics. Therefore, this method has been proved in both simulation and experiment to significantly improve the reconstruction when the source bandwidth, illumination size and scan step size increase. It is worth mentioning that the accurate and detailed information of the energy spectrum for the incident beam is not required in advance for the proposed method. Further, we combine multi-wavelength and mixed-state approaches to jointly solve temporal and spatial partial coherence in ptychography so that it can handle various disadvantageous experimental effects. The significant relaxation in coherence requirements by our approaches allows the use of high-flux broadband X-ray sources for high-efficient and high-resolution ptychographic imaging.

73 NUCLEAR PHYSICS AND RADIATION PHYSICS↗

Machine Learning (ML) Classifier to Assist Metadata Creation

The Atmospheric Radiation Measurement (ARM) Data Center is responsible for the timely collection, archival, and curation of science data products. These products are freely available through an online data repository. Metadata creation is paramount for scientific users to find and access over seven petabytes of atmospheric science data. The hierarchical metadata structure allows users to search for information at both broad and narrow levels. This project aims to leverage 30 years’ worth of manually created metadata to enable machine predictions of broad-term classifications from narrow-term descriptions. These classification predictions would assist metadata coordinators with their term selections. This paper discusses the cleaning and preprocessing of the training data, the pipeline developed to determine the best model for this task, and the creation of an API metadata classifier for ARM measurement metadata. Our results show that the Linear Support Vector Classification (LinearSVC) algorithm, along with the Term Frequency – Inverse Document Frequency (TF-IDF) vectorizer, is well-suited for our multi-class classification task. Lengthier input training data led to better results, and artificial balancing was unnecessary for this particular use case. This predictive classifier enhances efficiency in metadata creation, as well as supports greater consistency and accuracy in metadata tagging.

Collier, Hannah [ORNL] (ORCID:0000000341284292)↗

The Challenge of Disproportionate Importance of Temporal Features in Predicting HPC Power Consumption

In this work, we demonstrate the challenges in predicting HPC cluster power consumption in the face of significant temporal skew in power consumption behavioral patterns. Predicting large power swings that extend several megawatts has significant operational value for HPC centers, however, prediction is challenging due to the relative rarity of such events and also due to the abrupt or disjoint deviation from the average power consumption levels. To study the impact of this challenge, we have trained a recurrent neural network (RNN) as a reasonably sophisticated model to predict power consumption of the one-year worth of node power consumption data from the Summit supercomputer located in the Oak Ridge Leadership Computing Facility. By studying the prediction results, we have found that although simple usage of RNN models can provide good results on average power consumption levels, it would fail at predicting the power swings that have more operational value. With such results, we discuss potential next steps in addressing such issues aiming towards a robust usage of power prediction techniques in HPC operations.

Li, Chengcheng↗

Behind-the-Meter Energy Storage and Generation in Support of Electrified Rental Car Centers

Electrification of rental car centers at major airports is expected to generate tens of MW in additional power loads. The magnitude of these loads poses challenges including high utility costs, expensive and lengthy distribution capacity upgrades, and disruptions to traditional operation. Behind-the-meter stationary battery storage and onsite photovoltaic generation offer a viable solution to these challenges without impacting the operation and business model of rental car companies, defined by minimal fleet inventory and short vehicle dwell time. Using data-driven syn-thetic charging loads for the rental car center at the Dallas/Fort Worth airport in the United States, we show that optimally-designed and controlled behind - the- meter resources can reduce the lifecycle cost of electrified rental centers by an average 41 % and reduce peak grid demand by 64 %, deferring the need for distribution upgrades or potentially avoiding it altogether.

battery storage↗

Study of Seamless Microgrid Transition Operation Using Grid-Forming Inverters

This paper investigates operational techniques to achieve seamless (smooth) microgrid (MG) transitions by dispatching a grid-forming (GFM) inverter. In traditional approaches, the GFM inverter must switch between grid-following (GFL) and GFM control modes during MG transition operation. Today's inverter technology allows GFM inverters to always operate in GFM control mode, so it is worth exploring how to use them to achieve smooth MG transition operation. This paper proposes three operational techniques: a traditional scheme of switching between GFL and GFM control; a new scheme of consistent GFM control and shifting the droop intercept up before islanding operation; and a new scheme of consistent GFM control and shifting the droop intercept up before synchronization operation. A full hardware setup is established to compare the three techniques and showcase their implementations in real-world applications. The results show that the third technique outperforms the others and exhibits the best transition performance because the GFM inverter maintains the same operating points during the transition operation. Therefore, we conclude that ensuring smooth MG transition operation requires that the GFM inverter(s) maintain the same operating points (v, f, P, Q, and phase angle) during the transition operation in addition to minimizes the point of common coupling power flow.

grid-forming control↗

Electrifying Airport GSE: Monte Carlo Grid Impacts

Airports globally are shifting from ICE-powered to electric Ground Support Equipment (eGSE) to enhance efficiency, reduce operational costs, and improve operator health. Leveraging predictable routes, flat terrain, and low operational speeds, airports provide ideal conditions for electrification. This study evaluates freight GSE electrification at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), USA, using the Agile@ platform, which integrates three analytical methods: Freight Facility Model (FFM), Activity-Structure-Intensity-Fuel (ASIF), and Monte Carlo simulations. Results from 10,000 simulations indicate modest but critical increases in electricity demand and significant variability in GSE energy consumption. These insights emphasize the importance of data-driven scheduling, targeted maintenance, and strategic infrastructure planning. For high-uncertainty scenarios, airports are advised to deploy buffer energy storage systems (battery banks), implement demand-response charging strategies, schedule flexible workforce shifts, and prioritize proactive maintenance-particularly for equipment with higher operational uncertainty, such as tug tractors with trailers. Agile@ thus offers a robust, scalable, and data-driven framework to optimize long-term GSE planning and enhance reliability across diverse airport environments.

Bose, Ranjan [ORNL] (ORCID:0009000791026327)↗

Analyzing File Access Patterns on Large-Scale HPC Systems: Opportunities for File Prefetching

This paper explores the potential opportunities for implementing file prefetching techniques on large-scale high-performance computing (HPC) systems. Specifically, we investigate the file access patterns of various applications across multiple scientific domains using two years' worth of Darshan I/O traces obtained from the Summit supercomputer. We identify recurring trends and patterns which indicate that prefetching can be effectively leveraged to improve data access performance on HPC systems. This study serves as a valuable reference for system architects and developers in the HPC community, providing insights into the opportunities and challenges associated with enabling file prefetching on large-scale HPC systems.

Karimi, Ahmad Maroof↗

A Cooperative Game Theory-based Secondary Frequency Regulation in Distribution Systems

Participation of distribution systems in frequency regulation has become an important factor for grid operation after the integration of distributed energy resources (DERs). While available reserves from a single distribution system may not be sufficient for frequency regulation, aggregated reserves from several distribution systems can provide frequency regulation at grid-scale. This paper proposes a cooperative game theory-based approach for secondary frequency regulation in distribution systems consisting of distributed energy resources (DERs). A two-stage strategy is proposed to effectively and precisely determine a change in active power set points of DERs following a command from system operators. In the first stage, the value or worth of each DER and their coalitions are determined using initial rates of change of frequency (ROCOF) for each DER/coalition. In the second stage, the Shapley value, one of the solution concepts of cooperative game theory, is used to determine changes in active power set points of DERs. The proposed method is implemented on several distribution systems including a modified IEEE 13-node system and modified 33-node distribution system.

Gautam, Mukesh↗

Simulated Feasibility of 3-D Lightning Mapping From Space

In addition to the awe it inspires, lightning can illuminate the microphysical processes hidden away within deep convection. The current generation of space-based lightning mapping uses mostly 2-D optical imaging to connect overall flash characteristics to their parent storm dynamics, but are missing a dimension’s worth of information. With lightning now classified as an essential climate variable, future spaceborne mappers will need improved capabilities to take advantage of the 3-D structure of lightning flashes to support meteorological and climate modeling. We report here on a study of the feasibility of high-resolution 3-D lightning mapping using a radio frequency (RF)-based network of satellites from low-Earth orbit (LEO). Lightning sources are simulated using existing lightning mapping array (LMA) tools, modified for orbital detection, and spatially reconstructed using a Levenberg–Marquardt geolocation algorithm to assess sources of uncertainty in these solutions. We analyze the benefits and limitations of this approach compared to existing orbital and ground-based methods. Results of this study show that lightning can be mapped in 3-D with a vertical location accuracy better than 2 km using as few as five satellites in LEO capable of measuring the time-of-arrival of impulsive RF signals in the very high-frequency (VHF) band. The consequence of this study is that high-resolution, spaceborne 3-D mapping of lightning is achievable across most of the globe, having crucial implications for our understanding of not only lightning, but also severe weather development, climate science, and more.

47 OTHER INSTRUMENTATION↗

High-Throughput Data Processing at FRIB Using ESnet

Real-time or nearly real-time (nearline) data processing methods are critical tools as detector technologies and data acquisition (DAQ) systems allow for higher data rates and volumes. The introduction of the energy sciences network (ESnet), a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) supported high-speed network for scientific research, creates opportunities to leverage the computing power of DOE facilities like the National Energy Research Scientific Computing Center (NERSC). As a first step toward realizing a DOE Office of Science Integrated Research Infrastructure (IRI) pattern, an automated workflow was developed to remotely process data obtained from a nuclear physics experiment at the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams (FRIB) at NERSC with data transferred between FRIB and NERSC over ESnet. The workflow demonstrated the ability to process one week’s worth of experimental data in approximately 90 min and was used successfully for nearline analysis during a recently completed FRIB experiment. Here, a summary of the workflow development and results of recent demonstrations will be presented.

Data processing↗

Multiphysics Analysis of Li Cooled Divertor Substrate During Loss of Coolant Accident (LOCA)

In the ongoing study of potential designs for liquid metal (LM) plasma-facing components (PFCs), so-called “slow” and “fast” Li flow divertor concepts are under investigation. In the previous studies on design and analysis of the slow Li flow divertor and comparison with the fast Li flow divertor, the magnetohydrodynamics (MHD)/heat transfer effects of the Li flowing inside the substrate as a second coolant were comprehensively investigated under the normal steady-state operation conditions. Here, in the present study, the multiphysics analysis is extended to the unsteady abnormal divertor scenario where the Li layer on top of the substrate does not provide full coverage or even totally disappears for a certain period of time, so that the substrate becomes directly exposed to the incident high plasma heat flux. Such an unwanted event may happen regardless of the concept of the divertor and is worth detailed investigations, typically referred to as a loss of coolant accident (LOCA). To address this situation, a simplified scoping analysis is conducted first in 2-D, and then an integrated 3-D modeling is performed using a time-dependent multiphysics model in COMSOL Multiphysics that integrates LM MHD, heat transfer, and solid mechanics. The main goal is to evaluate conditions under which the major material limits, such as the maximum allowable temperature, stress, and displacement of the substrate, can still be met. It was shown that the maximum time over which the substrate of RAFM steel can retain structural integrity during the LOCA is around 0.2 ∼ 0.3 s. Any divertor concept that utilizes RAFM steel as a substrate material and liquid Li as a second coolant should take such a permitted time into consideration.

divertor↗

Gen3 CSP Materials: Critical Review of Limited Existing and New Survey Data

Abstract Novel high temperature (≥ 700°C) Heat Transfer Medias (HTMs, e.g., molten salts) and corrosion-resistant Containment Materials (CMs, e.g., metal alloys or ceramics) are necessary for concentrated solar power (CSP) given the emphasis on higher temperatures and high cycle efficiency in the 3rd generation CSP (Gen3 CSP) technologies. In early 2019, we sent out an online survey to the Gen3 CSP community to fully assess the communal needs for thermophysical properties measurements of which HTMs and CMs, and what temperature range and other testing environments would be ideal for those materials. Based on the recorded responses, seven unique HTMs and twenty-six unique CMs were identified. Since then the list has been constantly updated, following our interactions and inputs from the Gen3 CSP community, with some new materials substituting their older counterparts. Currently, there are total of ten unique HTMs and twenty-nine unique CMs that are under consideration by the Gen3 CSP community. By analyzing the available body of research to date and combining it with our survey data from within the Gen3 CSP community, this paper presents trends of what people in the CSP world are thinking regarding materials worth investigating and suggests which thermophysical property measurements are critical to advance high-temperature CSP systems.

Gunawan, Andrey↗

Structural dynamics modeling of spent nuclear fuel during hypothetical package drop events

The response of spent nuclear fuel (SNF) to hypothetical package drop events is of particular interest in the scope of spent fuel storage and transportation because of the mechanical shock encountered in such scenarios. Previous testing and modeling by the U.S. Department of Energy has demonstrated that the shock and vibration environment of normal shipping and handling conditions (excluding package drop events) is relatively benign and does not challenge the integrity of spent nuclear fuel. Cask drop events are worth considering because SNF packages are required to withstand free drops onto unyielding surfaces as part of their licensing basis. The acceleration experienced during drop events can be orders of magnitude higher, and thus more advanced models are needed to encompass potential nonlinear behavior of the fuel, such as spacer grid buckling and rod-to-rod impact. This work describes a number of finite element models developed to calculate the response of spent nuclear fuel to various hypothetical drop events that have been validated by package and fuel assembly drop tests conducted in the last decade. Sensitivity of the model response to factors such as package drop orientation, secondary impacts, and irradiated material properties as well as their potential impacts to fuel cladding integrity, was also investigated. Cask drops are not expected as a regular occurrence during SNF transportation, but this work helps raise the understanding of SNF mechanical loads to the point of consistency with the package design requirements.

Kadooka, Kevin↗

Beyond the Hype: An Evaluation of Commercially Available Machine-Learning-Based Malware Detectors

There is a lack of scientific testing of commercially available malware detectors, especially those that boast accurate classification of never-before-seen (i.e., zero-day) files using machine learning (ML). Consequently, efficacy of malware detectors is opaque, inhibiting end users from making informed decisions and researchers from targeting gaps in current detectors. In this paper, we present a scientific evaluation of four prominent commercial malware detection tools to assist an organization with two primary questions: To what extent do ML-based tools accurately classify previously and never-before-seen files? Is purchasing a network-level malware detector worth the cost? To investigate, we tested each tool against 3,536 total files (2,554 or 72% malicious, 982 or 28% benign) of a variety of file types, including hundreds of malicious zero-days, polyglots, and APT-style files, delivered on multiple protocols. We present statistical results on detection time and accuracy, consider complementary analysis (using multiple tools together), and provide two novel applications of the recent cost-benefit evaluation procedure of Iannacone & Bridges. Although the ML-based tools are more effective at detecting zero-day files and executables, the signature-based tool might still be an overall better option. Both network-based tools provide substantial (simulated) savings when paired with either host tool, yet both show poor detection rates on protocols other than HTTP or SMTP. Our results show that all four tools have near-perfect precision but alarmingly low recall, especially on file types other than executables and office files—37% of malware, including all polyglot files, were undetected. Priorities for researchers and takeaways for end users are given. Code for future use of the cost model is provided.

97 MATHEMATICS AND COMPUTING↗

Efficacy of using a dynamic length representation vs. a fixed-length for neuroarchitecture search

Deep learning neuroarchitecture and hyperparameter search are important in finding the best configuration that maximizes learned model accuracy. However, the number of types of layers, their associated hyperparameters, and the myriad of ways to connect layers poses a significant computational challenge in discovering ideal model configurations. Here, we assess two different approaches for neuroarchitecture search for a LeNet style neural network, one that uses a fixed-length approach where there is a preset number of possible layers that can be toggled on or off via mutation, and a variable-length approach where layers can be freely added or removed via special mutation operators. We found that the variable-length implementation trained better models while discovering unusual layer configurations worth further exploration.

Coletti, Mark↗

Athena - Digital Twin and Infrastructure Model [SWR 20-106]

The software provides database access and analysis code for project ATHENA data. In particular, it provides (1) access to the AWS RDS database and (2) supporting code for analysis. Additionally, the software contains all the code related to modeling the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) curbside (CTA modeling) using SUMO simulator. It demonstrates how to install, run and derive useful data from SUMO simulations. We will describe the basic files needed to run a simulation and how those files are generated. The software also has code for generating simulations representing different traffic management policies for DFW and simulating those policies on personal computer or on NREL's Eagle supercomputer. The examples provided are a representation of the DFW airport for curbside dropoff and and pickup.

Severino, Joseph↗

Digital Twin Technology (“Morpheus”) for Optimized Building Operations [SWR-22-74]

The electrification of buildings is an important step to reducing greenhouse gas emissions across all industries. The management of increasingly electrified buildings is a complex pursuit, and there remains a need for cost-effective software capable of handling the computational burden required of such complexity. Through a partnership with Dallas Fort Worth (DFW) Airport, researchers at NREL have developed a digital twin modeling framework to optimize building operations, called Morpheus. Pairing predictive control with automatic fault detection and diagnostics, Morpheus decreases energy expenditures, costs, and faults for large facilities. Additionally, Morpheus employs artificial intelligence to continuously improve its performance using information provided by sensor systems, human experts with deep industry domain knowledge, and even from other similar machines or fleets of machines. Coupling this novel energy-management software with other digital twins, such as NREL’s Athena software for mobility operations, enables robust decision-making for asset and space management. The implementation of Morpheus at DFW has resulted in significantly improved HVAC system operations and reduced both peak power and overall energy consumption. This enhanced functionality comes at a more affordable price than previously developed digital twins and can be customized for other facilities’ geometries to provide optimal, individualized control of a facility’s energy consumption.

Chinde, Venkatesh↗