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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.

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At least 199 records · Page 11

From IMT Device Measurements to Network-Level Consequences: When Learning Suppresses Beyond-LIF Neuron Dynamics

Emerging neuromorphic devices such as insulator--metal transition (IMT) devices exhibit complex temporal dynamics, including slow internal state memory, hysteresis, and burst-like firing, which are poorly captured by conventional leaky integrate-and-fire (LIF) neurons. However, it remains unclear when such dynamics influence learning and inference at the network level, particularly under commonly used unsupervised plasticity rules. We present a controlled, full-stack co-design study spanning experimental characterization of individual IMT devices, compact neuron model development, and large-scale spiking network simulations with identical architectures and learning rules. Rather than optimizing benchmark accuracy, our goal is to diagnose when neuron-level dynamics survive learning and competition, and when they are suppressed, to inform the co-design of devices, networks, and learning rules that can exploit beyond-LIF complexity.

42 ENGINEERING↗

A statistical and simulation-informed model for estimating permeability from pore size distribution in saturated geomaterials

Accurate permeability estimation is essential across subsurface engineering applications but remains challenging due to the complex pore structures of natural geomaterials. Traditional empirical methods and simplified theoretical models often inadequately capture the role of pore size distribution and connectivity. Here, this study develops a statistical and simulation-informed permeability model that collapses pore-scale complexity into a compact scaling of the form k = αϕμ d 2 , where ϕ is porosity, μ d is mean pore size, and α is a weakly varying coefficient. By combining pore network simulations with statistical analysis of unimodal and bimodal pore size distributions, we identify three key findings: (i) permeability is much more sensitive to mean pore size than to porosity; (ii) across extensive datasets, the ratio σ d /μ d (standard deviation to mean) clusters around a characteristic value ∼0.4, allowing the effects of the full pore size distribution to be represented by μ d and a narrowly varying α ≈ 0.05; and (iii) for bimodal systems, there exists a critical fraction of small pores ∼0.78 above which flow becomes small-pore dominated, enabling the definition of an effective flow-controlling pore population and facilitating simplified permeability estimation for such systems. The resulting model, which requires only porosity and a representative mean pore size as inputs, is validated against comprehensive experimental datasets (>1700 samples) spanning diverse soils and rocks and achieves good predictive accuracy. Overall, this work provides a physically grounded yet practically simple permeability estimator suitable for subsurface engineering, environmental protection, and resource management applications.

Permeability↗

Tree tensor network approach to simulating Shor's algorithm

Constructively simulating quantum systems furthers our understanding of qualitative and quantitative features which may be analytically intractable. In this paper, we directly simulate and explore the entanglement structure present in the paradigmatic example for exponential quantum speedups: Shor's algorithm. To perform our simulation, we construct a dynamic tree tensor network which manifestly captures two salient circuit features for modular exponentiation. These are the natural two-register bipartition and the invariance of entanglement with respect to permutations of the top-register qubits. Our construction help identify the entanglement entropy properties, which we summarize by a scaling relation. Further, the tree network is efficiently projected onto a matrix product state from which we efficiently execute the quantum Fourier transform. In conclusion, future simulation of quantum information states with tensor networks exploiting circuit symmetries is discussed.

97 MATHEMATICS AND COMPUTING↗

Studies and simulations of the DigiCipher system

During this period the development of simulators for the various high definition television (HDTV) systems proposed to the FCC was continued. The FCC has indicated that it wants the various proposers to collaborate on a single system. Based on all available information this system will look very much like the advanced digital television (ADTV) system with major contributions only from the DigiCipher system. The results of our simulations of the DigiCipher system are described. This simulator was tested using test sequences from the MPEG committee. The results are extrapolated to HDTV video sequences. Once again, some caveats are in order. The sequences used for testing the simulator and generating the results are those used for testing the MPEG algorithm. The sequences are of much lower resolution than the HDTV sequences would be, and therefore the extrapolations are not totally accurate. One would expect to get significantly higher compression in terms of bits per pixel with sequences that are of higher resolution. However, the simulator itself is a valid one, and should HDTV sequences become available, they could be used directly with the simulator. A brief overview of the DigiCipher system is given. Some coding results obtained using the simulator are looked at. These results are compared to those obtained using the ADTV system. These results are evaluated in the context of the CCSDS specifications and make some suggestions as to how the DigiCipher system could be implemented in the NASA network. Simulations such as the ones reported can be biased depending on the particular source sequence used. In order to get more complete information about the system one needs to obtain a reasonable set of models which mirror the various kinds of sources encountered during video coding. A set of models which can be used to effectively model the various possible scenarios is provided. As this is somewhat tangential to the other work reported, the results are included as an appendix.

Sayood, K.↗

Genetic learning in rule-based and neural systems

The design of neural networks and fuzzy systems can involve complex, nonlinear, and ill-conditioned optimization problems. Often, traditional optimization schemes are inadequate or inapplicable for such tasks. Genetic Algorithms (GA's) are a class of optimization procedures whose mechanics are based on those of natural genetics. Mathematical arguments show how GAs bring substantial computational leverage to search problems, without requiring the mathematical characteristics often necessary for traditional optimization schemes (e.g., modality, continuity, availability of derivative information, etc.). GA's have proven effective in a variety of search tasks that arise in neural networks and fuzzy systems. This presentation begins by introducing the mechanism and theoretical underpinnings of GA's. GA's are then related to a class of rule-based machine learning systems called learning classifier systems (LCS's). An LCS implements a low-level production-system that uses a GA as its primary rule discovery mechanism. This presentation illustrates how, despite its rule-based framework, an LCS can be thought of as a competitive neural network. Neural network simulator code for an LCS is presented. In this context, the GA is doing more than optimizing and objective function. It is searching for an ecology of hidden nodes with limited connectivity. The GA attempts to evolve this ecology such that effective neural network performance results. The GA is particularly well adapted to this task, given its naturally-inspired basis. The LCS/neural network analogy extends itself to other, more traditional neural networks. Conclusions to the presentation discuss the implications of using GA's in ecological search problems that arise in neural and fuzzy systems.

Smith, Robert E.↗

Hyperparameter Optimization and Feature Inclusion in Graph Neural Networks for Spiking Implementation

Graph convolutional networks leverage both graph structures and features on nodes and edges for improved learning performance in comparison with classical machine learning approaches. Spiking neuromorphic computers natively implement network-like computation and have been shown to be successful at implementing graph learning without features. Incorporating graph features brings the challenge of efficient feature representation and balancing the contribution of topology and features in learning. In this work, we present our design of a simulated network of spiking neurons to perform semi-supervised learning on graph data using both the graph structure and the node features. We explore various design choices, present preliminary results, and discuss the opportunities for using neuromorphic computers for this task in the future.

Cong, Guojing↗

CO 2 storage in the Paluxy formation at the Kemper County CO 2 storage complex: Pore network properties and simulated reactive permeability evolution

The Paluxy formation is being considered as a prospective CO 2 reservoir at the Kemper County CO 2 Storage Complex. Herein, the pore and pore-throat size distributions and connectivity of the Paluxy formation is evaluated through analysis of 3D X-ray Computed Tomography images. In spite of resolution limitations that constrain the pore-throat sizes detectable by imaging, the permeability contributing pore-throats are successfully characterized through 3D imaging analysis. Image-obtained pore and pore-throat size distributions and pore connectivity are then utilized to construct pore network models and simulate permeability. After CO 2 is injected, it will dissolve into formation brine and create conditions favorable for dissolution of primary minerals and precipitation of secondary minerals. These reactions will alter the porosity and permeability of the system to varying degrees depending on the spatial location of reactions. In this research, the possible porosity-permeability evolution is simulated using pore network models considering mineral reactions occurring uniformly and non-uniformly throughout the network. For a given change in porosity, there is a large range of possible permeability outcomes. Depending on the extent and spatial location of mineral reactions, permeability may decrease by more than one order of magnitude as minerals precipitate. During dissolution, simulated permeability increases as much as 500%.

03 NATURAL GAS↗

Directional Laplacian Centrality for Cyber Situational Awareness

Cyber operations is drowning in diverse, high-volume, multi-source data. To get a full picture of current operations and identify malicious events and actors, analysts must see through data generated by a mix of human activity and benign automated processes. Although many monitoring and alert systems exist, they typically use signature-based detection methods. We introduce a general method rooted in spectral graph theory to discover patterns and anomalies without a priori knowledge of signatures. We derive and propose a new graph-theoretic centrality measure based on the derivative of the graph Laplacian matrix in the direction of a vertex. To build intuition about our measure, we show how it identifies the most central vertices in standard network datasets and compare to other graph centrality measures. Finally, we focus our attention on studying its effectiveness in identifying important IP addresses in network flow data. Using both real and synthetic network flow data, we conduct several experiments to test our measure’s sensitivity to two types of injected attack profiles and show that vertices participating in injected attack profiles exhibit noticeable changes in our centrality measures, even when the injected anomalies are relatively small, and in the presence of simulated network dynamics.

45 MILITARY TECHNOLOGY, WEAPONRY, AND NATIONAL DEF↗

Simulation of Foam Divot Weight on External Tank Utilizing Least Squares and Neural Network Methods

Simulation of divot weight in the insulating foam, associated with the external tank of the U.S. space shuttle, has been evaluated using least squares and neural network concepts. The simulation required models based on fundamental considerations that can be used to predict under what conditions voids form, the size of the voids, and subsequent divot ejection mechanisms. The quadratic neural networks were found to be satisfactory for the simulation of foam divot weight in various tests associated with the external tank. Both linear least squares method and the nonlinear neural network predicted identical results.

Chamis, Christos C.↗

Calibration of Car-Following Models Using a Dual Genetic Algorithm with Central Composite Design

We report the calibration of microscopic traffic simulation models has received much attention in the simulation field. Although no standard has been established for it, a genetic algorithm (GA) has been widely employed in recent literature because of its high efficiency to find solutions in such optimization problems. However, the performance still falls short in simulation analyses to support fast decision making. This paper proposes a new calibration procedure using a dual GA and central composite design (CCD) in order to improve the efficiency. The calibration exercise goes through three major sequential steps: (1) experimental design using CCD for a quadratic response surface model (RSM) estimation, (2) 1st GA procedure using the RSM with CCD to find a near-optimal initial population for a next step, and (3) 2nd GA procedure to find a final solution. The proposed method was applied in calibrating the Gipps car-following model with respect to maximizing the likelihood of a spacing distribution between a lead and following vehicle. In order to evaluate the performance of the proposed method, a conventional calibration approach using a single GA was compared under both simulated and real vehicle trajectory data. It was found that the proposed approach enhances the optimization speed by starting to search from an initial population that is closer to the optimum than that of the other approach. This result implies the proposed approach has benefits for a large-scale traffic network simulation analysis. Finally, this method can be extended to other optimization tasks using GA in transportation studies.

42 ENGINEERING↗

Method and Apparatus for Predicting Unsteady Pressure and Flow Rate Distribution in a Fluid Network

A method and apparatus for analyzing steady state and transient flow in a complex fluid network, modeling phase changes, compressibility, mixture thermodynamics, external body forces such as gravity and centrifugal force and conjugate heat transfer. In some embodiments, a graphical user interface provides for the interactive development of a fluid network simulation having nodes and branches. In some embodiments, mass, energy, and specific conservation equations are solved at the nodes, and momentum conservation equations are solved in the branches. In some embodiments, contained herein are data objects for computing thermodynamic and thermophysical properties for fluids. In some embodiments, the systems of equations describing the fluid network are solved by a hybrid numerical method that is a combination of the Newton-Raphson and successive substitution methods.

Majumdar, Alok K.↗

Spatial Impacts of Electric Vehicle Charging on Power Grid Stability: A Downtown Atlanta Case Study

The rapid increase in electric vehicle (EV) charging demand poses a potential risk to power grid stability, particularly as the spatial distribution of this demand remains underexplored. Existing research often focuses on technical optimization models while overlooking the geographic and human dynamics that affect energy consumption. This study addresses this gap by incorporating mobility data to estimate both building energy use and EV charging demand while also considering geographic factors for a better understanding of grid load. Using agent-based simulations and the Open-Source Distribution System Simulator, the study evaluates the effect of various EV penetration scenarios on grid voltage and unbalance. The results show that, although voltage remains within acceptable limits at lower EV penetration rates, significant voltage drop and unbalance occur as EV penetration exceeds 40%, particularly in residential areas with high charging demand. This study offers a framework for integrating spatial analysis and mobility data in power network simulations, providing insights for future EV infrastructure planning.

Pan, Melrose [ORNL] (ORCID:000000031627448X)↗

High performance flight simulation at NASA Langley

The use of real-time simulation at the NASA facility is reviewed specifically with regard to hardware, software, and the use of a fiberoptic-based digital simulation network. The network hardware includes supercomputers that support 32- and 64-bit scalar, vector, and parallel processing technologies. The software include drivers, real-time supervisors, and routines for site-configuration management and scheduling. Performance specifications include: (1) benchmark solution at 165 sec for a single CPU; (2) a transfer rate of 24 million bits/s; and (3) time-critical system responsiveness of less than 35 msec. Simulation applications include the Differential Maneuvering Simulator, Transport Systems Research Vehicle simulations, and the Visual Motion Simulator. NASA is shown to be in the final stages of developing a high-performance computing system for the real-time simulation of complex high-performance aircraft.

Cleveland, Jeff I., II↗

Parallel discrete-event simulation of FCFS stochastic queueing networks

Physical systems are inherently parallel. Intuition suggests that simulations of these systems may be amenable to parallel execution. The parallel execution of a discrete-event simulation requires careful synchronization of processes in order to ensure the execution's correctness; this synchronization can degrade performance. Largely negative results were recently reported in a study which used a well-known synchronization method on queueing network simulations. Discussed here is a synchronization method (appointments), which has proven itself to be effective on simulations of FCFS queueing networks. The key concept behind appointments is the provision of lookahead. Lookahead is a prediction on a processor's future behavior, based on an analysis of the processor's simulation state. It is shown how lookahead can be computed for FCFS queueing network simulations, give performance data that demonstrates the method's effectiveness under moderate to heavy loads, and discuss performance tradeoffs between the quality of lookahead, and the cost of computing lookahead.

Nicol, David M.↗

Evaluate the System-Level Impact of Connected and Automated Vehicles Coupled with Shared Mobility: An Agent-based Simulation Approach

With the rapid growth of information and communication technologies, Connected and Automated Vehicles (CAVs) are deemed to be disruptive with the potential to significantly improve overall transportation system efficiency, however, may bring Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) increase or other issues. Further, shared mobility systems are another disruptive force that is reshaping our travel patterns. To quantify the combined impact of CAV and shared mobility on travel behavior, traffic performance and energy efficiency, we develop a mesoscopic simulation-based framework for mobility and energy efficiency evaluation considering the disruptive transportation technologies. Under this framework, we develop novel models for energy intensity and modal activity, and evaluated a variety of energy scenarios for different combinations of CAV applications, various levels of automation, roadway characteristics, and traffic conditions, while also varying different vehicle types and fuel/powertrain technologies. Based applying this modeling suite to a calibrated BEAM simulation network in Riverside California, it was found that cooperative automated driving in general will improve mobility, but automated vehicles, even when deployed in a shared autonomous fleet, will likely bring an increase of VMT (up to 36%) due to mode shifts and deadheading. Ride-hailing vehicles typically have better energy efficiency and a higher share of electric vehicles, which helps offset the negative impact from VMT increases when estimating the system-level energy consumption. In general, simulation results show a 6% increase in energy consumption for the scenarios with an increasing shift to ride-hailing modes.

42 ENGINEERING↗

Guaranteed Phase & Topology Identification in Three Phase Distribution Grids

We present a method for joint phase identification and topology recovery in unbalanced three phase radial networks using only voltage measurements. By recovering phases and topology jointly, we utilize all three phase voltage measurements and can handle networks where some buses have a subset of three phases. Our method is theoretically justified by a novel linearized formulation of unbalanced three phase power flow and makes precisely defined and reasonable assumptions on line impedances and load statistics. We validate our method on three IEEE test networks simulated under realistic conditions in OpenDSS, comparing our performance to the state of the art. In addition to providing a new method for phase and topology recovery, our intuitively structured linearized model will provide a foundation for future work in this and other applications.

42 ENGINEERING↗

Transport Upscaling under Flow Heterogeneity and Matrix-Diffusion in Three-Dimensional Discrete Fracture Networks

For this work, we investigate the combined effects of network scale flow variability and retention due to matrix-diffusion on the scaling behavior of transport through fractured media. Two of the principal mechanisms controlling the transport of solutes through fractured low-permeability media are broad distributions of flow velocities and retention times in the solid matrix. We study the relative impact of these two processes under different initial conditions using a set of three-dimensional discrete fracture network simulations. We use these simulations to develop and calibrate an upscaled continuous time random walk (CTRW) approach for advective transport based on an Ornstein-Uhlenbeck model for the particle velocities that accounts for the fracture-matrix coupling using a compound Poisson process. This CTRW model can be conditioned on the initial solute distribution and allows to observe late-time scaling behavior at distances beyond what is feasible to observe using high-fidelity direct numerical simulations. We determine that the initial distribution of particles leads to marked differences in the persistent long-term scale behavior in the solute travel time distributions, even those undergoing retention due to matrix diffusion through implementation and analysis of the model.

54 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES↗