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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 217 records · Page 12

Lightweight LSTM for CAN Signal Decoding

This paper describes an approach to identify undecoded Controller Area Network (CAN) data from one vehicle, based on the data similarity to previously decoded CAN data from another vehicle. Modern vehicles communicate data and signals from on-board sensors and controllers through the CAN bus. Networked sensors contain information such as wheel speeds, fuel gauges, turn signals, and radar signals. In the effort to use this information and make cars safer through human-in-the-loop CPS, signals on the CAN bus such as wheel speed and radar can be used to support the driver. However, data from the CAN bus are encoded and in some cases compressed, and different car manufacturers use different encoding schemes to represent data on the CAN bus. With hundreds of messages and thousands of possible encoding schemes to consider, it is laborious to identify the unique bits and encoding schemes that represent signals on each vehicle. In this study, we propose a method for training a Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) neural network on known radar signals from one vehicle manufacturer, a Toyota, and successfully apply the network to identify the encoding for radar signals on a different vehicle, a Honda. By augmenting the training dataset with varied encoding bit boundaries, a small and lightweight LSTM network can learn to recognize radar data across different encoding schemes. The results are an improvement on exhaustive-search algorithms and other methods previously used in the search for such signals.

Ngo, Paul↗

Safe Deep Reinforcement Learning for Robust Frequency and Voltage-Constrained Networked Microgrid Restoration

Here, this paper proposes a safe soft actor-critic reinforcement learning (RL) algorithm–based controller for networked microgrid restoration. It formulates the post black-start start as a finite-horizon constrained Markov decision process. The RL agent co-optimizes real and reactive power set-points for both grid-forming and grid-following inverters under explicit voltage and frequency constraints, while enforcing proper power sharing via the Mean Active Power Sharing Index (MPSI) and Mean Reactive Power Sharing Index (MQSI). Numerical results obtained on the IEEE 123-bus distribution system show that the proposed method achieves a mean voltage build-up time of 0.01 s without breaching the 5% sharing-violation budget under various load scenarios, considering MPSI and MQSI indices. These findings demonstrate that the proposed method yields fast and safe black-start schedules without resorting to heuristic penalties.

Selim, Alaa [Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH (Unite↗

Extended Galerkin Neural Network Approximation of Singular Variational Problems with Error Control

We present extended Galerkin neural networks, a variational framework for approximating general boundary value problems (BVPs) with error control. The main contributions of this work are (1) a rigorous theory guiding the construction of new weighted least squares variational formulations suitable for use in neural network approximation of general BVPs, and (2) an “extended” feedforward network architecture which incorporates and is even capable of learning singular solution structures, thus greatly improving approximability of singular solutions. Furthermore, numerical results are presented for several problems, including steady Stokes flow around reentrant corners and in convex corners with Moffatt eddies in order to demonstrate efficacy of the method.

a posteriori error estimate↗

Optical Control of Adaptive Nanoscale Domain Networks

Adaptive networks can sense and adjust to dynamic environments to optimize their performance. Understanding their nanoscale responses to external stimuli is essential for applications in nanodevices and neuromorphic computing. However, it is challenging to image such responses on the nanoscale with crystallographic sensitivity. Here, the evolution of nanodomain networks in (PbTiO 3 ) n /(SrTiO 3 ) n superlattices (SLs) is directly visualized in real space as the system adapts to ultrafast repetitive optical excitations that emulate controlled neural inputs. The adaptive response allows the system to explore a wealth of metastable states that are previously inaccessible. Their reconfiguration and competition are quantitatively measured by scanning x-ray nanodiffraction as a function of the number of applied pulses, in which crystallographic characteristics are quantitatively assessed by assorted diffraction patterns using unsupervised machine-learning methods. The corresponding domain boundaries and their connectivity are drastically altered by light, holding promise for light-programable nanocircuits in analogy to neuroplasticity. Phase-field simulations elucidate that the reconfiguration of the domain networks is a result of the interplay between photocarriers and transient lattice temperature. The demonstrated optical control scheme and the uncovered nanoscopic insights open opportunities for the remote control of adaptive nanoscale domain networks.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

Learning error distribution kernel‐enhanced neural network methodology for multi‐intersection signal control optimization

Traffic congestion has substantially induced significant mobility and energy inefficiency. Many research challenges are identified in traffic signal control and management associated with artificial intelligence (AI)-based models. For example, developing AI-driven dynamic traffic system models that accurately capture high-resolution traffic attributes and formulate robust control algorithms for traffic signal optimization is difficult. Additionally, uncertainties in traffic system modeling and control processes can further complicate traffic signal system controllability. To partially address these challenges, this study presents a novel, hybrid neural network model enhanced with a probability density function kernel shaping technique to formulate traffic system dynamics better and improve comprehensive traffic network modeling and control. The numerical experimental tests were conducted, and the results demonstrate that the proposed control approach outperforms the baseline control strategies and reduces overall average delays by 11.64% on average. By leveraging the capabilities of this innovative model, this study aims to address major challenges related to traffic congestion and energy inefficiency toward more effective and adaptable AI-based traffic control systems.

Wang, Hong [Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), ↗

Towards Secure Autonomous Vehicles: An Integrated Edge and Multi-Modal Machine Learning Framework for Intrusion Detection

Autonomous vehicles (AVs) are vulnerable to cyberattacks targeting both internal communication networks and external perception sensors. While edge-based intrusion de- tection for Controller Area Network (CAN) buses offers real-time protection, it cannot detect cross-modal threats. Conversely, multi-modal fusion approaches improve coverage but often lack efficiency for in-vehicle deployment. This thesis integrates two complemen- tary solutions: (1) a lightweight, edge-deployable machine learning framework for CAN bus intrusion detection, and (2) a late-fusion system combining CAN FD and LiDAR data. Together, they form a hierarchical defense capable of handling single-modality and coordi- nated attacks. Simulations show that CAN-only models reach 93% accuracy on simulated DoS, spoofing, replay, and fuzzy attacks, while the fusion system achieves 0.87 AUC and 0.82 F1-score at 2 ms latency. This unified framework establishes a scalable, explainable, and field-ready strategy for AV cybersecurity.

97 MATHEMATICS AND COMPUTING↗

Optimization-based control using input convex neural networks

Input convex neural networks (ICNNs) are a family of deep learning models where the outputs are constructed to be convex functions of the inputs. By parameterizing system models using ICNNs, optimization-based control problems can be solved as convex optimization problems, leading to improved performance and robustness. This work proposes a novel framework where the control objective function and constraints are modelled using ICNNs. A case study of optimization-based control with output constraints is conducted on a process with input multiplicity and nonminimum phase behavior. The simulation results demonstrate improved economic yield compared with normal neural networks. Additionally, the input convexity formulation is compared with simple regularization techniques, and unique benefits such as improved data efficiency and robustness of the proposed formulation are shown. Finally, by explicitly incorporating prior knowledge about convexity, this framework provides a good balance between the universal approximation power of deep learning and computational feasibility required by control.

42 ENGINEERING↗

Constellation: The autonomous control and data acquisition system for dynamic experimental setups

The operation of instruments and detectors in laboratory or beamline environments presents a complex challenge, requiring stable operation of multiple concurrent devices, often controlled by separate hardware and software solutions. These environments frequently undergo modifications, such as the inclusion of different auxiliary devices depending on the experiment or facility, adding further complexity. The successful management of such dynamic configurations demands a flexible and robust system capable of controlling data acquisition, monitoring experimental setups, enabling seamless reconfiguration, and integrating new devices with limited effort. This paper presents Constellation, a flexible and network-distributed control and data acquisition software framework tailored to laboratory and beamline environments, that addresses the limitations of existing solutions. The framework is designed with a focus on extensibility, providing a streamlined interface for instrument integration. It supports efficient system setup via network discovery mechanisms, promotes stability through autonomous operational features, and provides comprehensive documentation and supporting tools for operators and application developers such as controllers and logging interfaces. At the core of the architectural design is the autonomy of the individual components, called satellites, which can make independent decisions about their operation and communicate these decisions to other components. This paper introduces the design principles and framework architecture of Constellation, presents the available graphical user interfaces, shares insights from initial successful deployments, and provides an outlook on future developments and applications.

Autonomy↗

From CAN to ROS: A Monitoring and Data Recording Bridge

The Controller Area Network (CAN) bus protocol is used in modern vehicles for sharing messages between several control units within a vehicle. CAN bus messages are encoded with unknown scheme and decoding these messages provide unlimited access to valuable information that is used in many autonomous vehicles applications. This paper proposes a ROS based package (CAN-to-ROS) for monitoring, recording, and real-time and offline decoding of CAN bus messages. The package is developed in the ROS framework to add modularity and ease of integration with other software, and it is written in C++ to guarantee speed of the execution during run-time. For realtime decoding of CAN bus data, CAN-to-ROS package used in conjunction with other library called Libpanda that provide access to CAN bus message from a vehicle. The package was evaluated and tested on a Raspberry Pi with real CAN bus data from a Toyota RAV4. The results confirm the capabilities of CAN-to-ROS package and resulted in using the package in other research projects.

Elmadani, Safwan↗

Synthesis, Hole Doping, and Electrical Properties of a Semiconducting Azatriangulene-Based Covalent Organic Framework

Two-dimensional covalent organic frameworks (2D COFs) containing heterotriangulenes have been theoretically identified as semiconductors with tunable, Dirac-cone-like band structures, which are expected to afford high charge-carrier mobilities ideal for next-generation flexible electronics. However, few bulk syntheses of these materials have been reported, and existing synthetic methods provide limited control of network purity and morphology. Here, we report transimination reactions between benzophenone-imine-protected azatriangulenes (OTPA) and benzodithiophene dialdehydes (BDT), which afforded a new semiconducting COF network, OTPA-BDT. The COFs were prepared as both polycrystalline powders and thin films with controlled crystallite orientation. Here, the azatriangulene nodes are readily oxidized to stable radical cations upon exposure to an appropriate p type dopant, tris(4-bromophenyl)ammoniumyl hexachloroantimonate, after which the network’s crystallinity and orientation are maintained. Oriented, hole-doped OTPA-BDT COF films exhibit electrical conductivities of up to 1.2 × 10 –1 S cm –1 , which are among the highest reported for imine-linked 2D COFs to date.

37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CH↗

Evaluating lightweight unsupervised online IDS for masquerade attacks in CAN

Vehicular controller area networks (CANs) are susceptible to masquerade attacks by malicious adversaries. In masquerade attacks, adversaries silence a targeted ID and then send malicious frames with forged content at the expected timing of benign frames. As masquerade attacks could seriously harm vehicle functionality and are the stealthiest attacks to detect in CAN, recent work has devoted attention to compare frameworks for detecting masquerade attacks in CAN. However, most existing works report offline evaluations using CAN logs already collected using simulations that do not comply with the domain’s real-time constraints. Here we contribute to advance the state of the art by presenting a comparative evaluation of four different non-deep learning (DL)-based unsupervised online intrusion detection systems (IDS) for masquerade attacks in CAN. Our approach differs from existing comparative evaluations in that we analyze the effect of controlling streaming data conditions in a sliding window setting. In doing so, we use realistic masquerade attacks being replayed from the ROAD dataset. We show that although evaluated IDS are not effective at detecting every attack type, the method that relies on detecting changes in the hierarchical structure of clusters of time series produces the best results at the expense of higher computational overhead. We discuss limitations, open challenges, and how the evaluated methods can be used for practical unsupervised online CAN IDS for masquerade attacks.

Anomaly detection↗

Voltage positioning using co-optimization of controllable grid assets in radial networks

With increasing penetration of solar PV, some distribution feeders are experiencing highly variable net-load flows and even reverse flows. To optimize distribution systems under such conditions, the scheduling of mechanical devices, such as OLTCs and capacitor banks, needs to take into account forecasted solar PV and actual grid conditions. However, these legacy switching assets are operated on a daily or hourly timescale, due to the wear and tear associated with mechanical switching, which makes them unsuitable for real-time control. Therefore, there is a natural timescale- separation between these slower mechanical assets and the responsive nature of inverter-based resources. In this paper, we present a network admissible convex formulation for holistically scheduling controllable grid assets to position voltage optimally against solar PV. An optimal hourly schedule is presented that utilizes mechanical resources to position the predicted voltages close to nominal values, while minimizing the use of inverter-based resources (i.e., DERs), making them available for control at a faster time-scale (after the uncertainty reveals itself). A convex, inner approximation of the OPF problem is adapted to a mixed-integer linear program that minimizes voltage deviations from nominal (i.e., maximizes voltage margins). Here, the resulting OPF solution respects all the network constraints and is, hence, robust against modeling simplifications. Simulation based analysis on IEEE distribution feeders validates the approach.

24 POWER TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION↗

SuperLab 2.0 Showcase: Connecting Five Labs to Tackle Grid Complexity and Unlock Unique Grid Asset Potential

SuperLab 2.0 (5-Lab Demo) is a collaborative, national-scale experiment showcasing the coordination of geographically distributed energy assets in real time. The demonstration integrates 25 physical and digital assets, spanning wind, PV, batteries, electrolyzers, DC fast chargers, microgrid controllers, building automation systems, small modular reactor (SMR), control centers, and gas turbines, across five DOE national laboratories-NLR, INL, NETL, LBNL, and SNL. These assets are unified using Energy Sciences Network (ESnet), a low-latency, high-performance U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) network, and controlled via a centralized energy controller hosted at NLR's ARIES facility. The demonstration validates the ability to stress-test hybrid energy systems under dynamic scenarios to de-risk advanced control strategies for greater resilience and flexibility. SuperLab 2.0 (5-Lab Demo) showcased a major advancement in federated national laboratory collaboration, enabling real-time, cross-laboratory experimentation to coordinate geographically dispersed distributed energy resources (DERs) using various communication protocols and networks. SuperLab 2.0 (5-Lab Demo) built on previous demonstrations conducted between NLR-PNNL and NLR-INL connecting diverse assets including distant protection devices, a SMR simulator, and a high temperature electrolyzer (HTE). Previous demos were based on a single connection between two labs with minimal coordination challenges. The 5-Lab demo with a centralized controller, distributed testbeds across different geographical locations, and use of protocols-based communication represents a scenario closer to real-world grid operations that coordinate resources across a region to meet system needs. This experiment studied how local DER controllers interact with a centralized energy controller during normal and abnormal events to maintain reliability. The SuperLab team across the five labs implemented a notional power system model equivalent of transmission and distribution lines, represented by the data networks interconnecting the labs. Each lab continuously exchanged local parameters (such as P and Q) from its Hardware-In-Loop (CHIL) and Power Hardware-In-Loop (PHIL) assets through centralized energy controller at NLR, enabling real-time interaction and coordination across sites. By leveraging ESnet as the communication backbone, the team successfully operated the distributed assets as a unified power system, with each bus represented by a different laboratory. This setup mirrors how assets interact in real-world power systems across dispersed locations with various protocols and latencies. At each lab site, assets were operated using their own local controllers which were coordinated through an overarching operation and control layer of centralized energy controller, equivalent to how an energy management system (EMS) orchestrates assets across a regional or national grid. SuperLab's federated connectivity utilized a Digital Real-Time Simulators (DRTS)-type gateway to connect Controller Hardware-In-Loop (CHIL) and PHIL assets between labs. To enable this federated connection through ESnet, a deterministic network was established where latency variations were consistent. This consistency allowed the development of digital filters for the power system assets across CHIL and PHIL interfaces to avoid unstable and unreliable grid conditions. This report provides an overview of the cross-laboratory configuration and offers insights into interconnecting geographically distributed research assets to test them as if they were co-located. This experiment represents a step toward linking nine DOE national laboratories, enabling nation-wide simulations that can address utility-driven challenges with grid resilience, flexibility, and modernization.

24 POWER TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION↗

Less Is More: Oligomer Extraction and Hydrothermal Annealing Increase PDMS Adhesion Forces for Materials Studies and for Biology-Focused Microfluidic Applications

Cues in the micro-environment are key determinants in the emergence of complex cellular morphologies and functions. Primary among these is the presence of neighboring cells that form networks. For high-resolution analysis, it is crucial to develop micro-environments that permit exquisite control of network formation. This is especially true in cell science, tissue engineering, and clinical biology. We introduce a new approach for assembling polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)-based microfluidic environments that enhances cell network formation and analyses. We report that the combined processes of PDMS solvent-extraction and hydrothermal annealing create unique conditions that produce high-strength bonds between solvent-extracted PDMS (E-PDMS) and glass—properties not associated with conventional PDMS. Extraction followed by hydrothermal annealing removes unbound oligomers, promotes polymer cross-linking, facilitates covalent bond formation with glass, and retains the highest biocompatibility. Herein, our extraction protocol accelerates oligomer removal from 5 to 2 days. Resulting microfluidic platforms are uniquely suited for cell-network studies owing to high adhesion forces, effectively corralling cellular extensions and eliminating harmful oligomers. We demonstrate the simple, simultaneous actuation of multiple microfluidic domains for invoking ATP- and glutamate-induced Ca 2+ signaling in glial-cell networks. These E-PDMS modifications and flow manipulations further enable microfluidic technologies for cell-signaling and network studies as well as novel applications.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

GradientGraph

Under this SBIR Phase II, Reservoir Labs has developed G2 Analytics, a new technology that allows network operators to analyze bottleneck and flow performance with high precision. G2 delivers a new analytical approach and framework to resolve a variety of key problems found in modern communication networks, including: traffic engineering, routing, flow scheduling, network design, capacity planning, resiliency analysis, network slicing, or service level agreement (SLA) management, among others. G2 leverages the bottleneck structure of congestion-controlled communication networks, a recent mathematical discovery by the Reservoir team [RL19b, RL20a, RL20b, RL21a]. Bottleneck structures reveal how perturbations on flows and links propagate through the network, providing an analytical framework to measure (qualitatively and quantitatively) the ripple effects induced as they traverse the network. Leveraging the mathematics of bottleneck structures, Reservoir Labs is developing the G2 technology to provide network operators with a framework to design, optimize and troubleshoot network performance. This delivery includes the G2 software stack.

Yellamraju, Sruthi↗

Electrochemical Control of Magnetism on the Breathing Kagome Network of Li x ScMo 3 O 8

Controlling properties within a given functional inorganic material structure type is often accomplished through tuning the electronic occupation, which is in turn dictated by the elemental composition determined at the time of material preparation. We employ electrochemical control of the lithium content, with associated electronic occupancy control, to vary the magnetic properties of a material where a kagome-derived network of Mo 3 triangles carry the spin. In this case, Li is electrochemically inserted into LiScMo 3 O 8 , a layered compound containing a breathing Mo kagome network. Up to two additional Li can be inserted into LiScMo 3 O 8 , transforming it into Li 3 ScMo 3 O 8 . Li 2 ScMo 3 O 8 prepared by electrochemical lithiation is compared to the quantum spin liquid candidate compound Li 2 ScMo 3 O 8 prepared through high-temperature solid-state methods, which has a slightly different structural stacking sequence but a similar kagome-derived network. Magnetic measurements are supported by first-principles calculations, showing that electrons remain localized on the Mo clusters throughout the doping series. As x is varied in Li x ScMo 3 O 8 , the measurements and calculations reveal the evolution from a diamagnetic band insulator at x = 1 to a geometrically frustrated magnet at x = 2, back to a diamagnetic insulator at x = 3. These results indicate a likelihood of strong coupling between the degree of Li disorder and charge/magnetic ordering over the Mo 3 clusters.

37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CH↗

Engineering Controls Database

Cyber-Informed Engineering (CIE) addresses the reality that cyber attacks on engineered systems can have consequences far beyond data loss or disruption of digital networks. When control systems are compromised, safety, reliability, and performance of the physical process itself may be threatened. This database is meant to establish clear examples and guidance for defining and applying engineered controls in CIE. It explains what engineered controls are, how they differ from information security measures, and how they are integrated into system design. The goal is to ensure that resilience is engineered into systems from the outset. Unlike cybersecurity protections that defend the digital layer, engineered controls act directly at the physical and algorithmic levels to guarantee that unacceptable consequences are prevented or limited. CIE keeps the consequences of a cyber attack from impacting the safety, reliability, and performance of engineered systems.

Source record↗

Packetized Energy Management: Coordinating Transmission and Distribution (Final Report)

The project Packetized Energy Management (PEM): Coordinating Transmission and Distribution was part of the ARPA-E NODES program from 2015 to 2023. The high-level goal of the project was to develop and demonstrate novel, scalable, and impactful technologies related to the coordination of networked distributed energy resources (DERs). By demonstrating responsive means by which fleets of DERs could be coordinated to enhance grid operation and reliability, the U.S. could accelerate renewable integration and electrification efforts and meet decarbonization goals.

25 ENERGY STORAGE↗