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At least 595 records · Page 33

NASA HPCC Technology for Aerospace Analysis and Design

The Computational Aerosciences (CAS) Project is part of NASA's High Performance Computing and Communications Program. Its primary goal is to accelerate the availability of high-performance computing technology to the US aerospace community-thus providing the US aerospace community with key tools necessary to reduce design cycle times and increase fidelity in order to improve safety, efficiency and capability of future aerospace vehicles. A complementary goal is to hasten the emergence of a viable commercial market within the aerospace community for the advantage of the domestic computer hardware and software industry. The CAS Project selects representative aerospace problems (especially design) and uses them to focus efforts on advancing aerospace algorithms and applications, systems software, and computing machinery to demonstrate vast improvements in system performance and capability over the life of the program. Recent demonstrations have served to assess the benefits of possible performance improvements while reducing the risk of adopting high-performance computing technology. This talk will discuss past accomplishments in providing technology to the aerospace community, present efforts, and future goals. For example, the times to do full combustor and compressor simulations (of aircraft engines) have been reduced by factors of 320:1 and 400:1 respectively. While this has enabled new capabilities in engine simulation, the goal of an overnight, dynamic, multi-disciplinary, 3-dimensional simulation of an aircraft engine is still years away and will require new generations of high-end technology.

Schulbach, Catherine H.↗

PaRSEC: Scalability, flexibility, and hybrid architecture support for task-based applications in ECP

This paper highlights the most significant enhancements made to PaRSEC, a scalable task-based runtime system designed for hybrid machines, during the Exascale Computing Project (ECP). The enhancements focus on expanding the capabilities of PaRSEC to address the evolving landscape of parallel computing. Notable achievements include the integration of support for three major types of accelerators (NVIDIA, AMD, and Intel GPUs), the refinement and increased flexibility of the communication subsystem, and the introduction of new programming interfaces tailored for irregular applications. Additionally, the project resulted in the development of powerful debugging and performance analysis tools aimed at assisting users in understanding and optimizing their applications. We present a comprehensive demonstration of these advancements through a series of benchmarks and applications within ECP and beyond, thereby showcasing the enhanced capabilities of PaRSEC across the diverse architectures within the ECP, providing valuable insights into the runtime system’s adaptability and performance across varied computing environments.

Bouteiller, Aurelien↗

Climate Analytics as a Service

Exascale computing, big data, and cloud computing are driving the evolution of large-scale information systems toward a model of data-proximal analysis. In response, we are developing a concept of climate analytics as a service (CAaaS) that represents a convergence of data analytics and archive management. With this approach, high-performance compute-storage implemented as an analytic system is part of a dynamic archive comprising both static and computationally realized objects. It is a system whose capabilities are framed as behaviors over a static data collection, but where queries cause results to be created, not found and retrieved. Those results can be the product of a complex analysis, but, importantly, they also can be tailored responses to the simplest of requests. NASA's MERRA Analytic Service and associated Climate Data Services API provide a real-world example of climate analytics delivered as a service in this way. Our experiences reveal several advantages to this approach, not the least of which is orders-of-magnitude time reduction in the data assembly task common to many scientific workflows.

big data↗

The formulation of simulation models of aeronautical systems

Recent developments in formula-manipulation compilers have led to a significant reduction in the time spent in formulating models of complex multi-degrees-of-freedom dynamical systems. MACSYMA, a computer system that can be used to perform symbolic manipulations in an interactive mode, is applied to the problem of formulating models of aeronautical systems for simulation studies. An example demonstrates that once the procedure is established, the formulation and modification of the models can be reduced to a series of routine computer operations.

Howard, J. C.↗

RISC Processors and High Performance Computing

This tutorial will discuss the top five RISC microprocessors and the parallel systems in which they are used. It will provide a unique cross-machine comparison not available elsewhere. The effective performance of these processors will be compared by citing standard benchmarks in the context of real applications. The latest NAS Parallel Benchmarks, both absolute performance and performance per dollar, will be listed. The next generation of the NPB will be described. The tutorial will conclude with a discussion of future directions in the field. Technology Transfer Considerations: All of these computer systems are commercially available internationally. Information about these processors is available in the public domain, mostly from the vendors themselves. The NAS Parallel Benchmarks and their results have been previously approved numerous times for public release, beginning back in 1991.

Bailey, David H.↗

Automation for Grid Interconnected Laboratory Emulation

As computational capabilities improve, digital twins are becoming vital for evaluating equipment realistically in laboratories. This paper outlines a digital twin architecture for the power grid, employing electromagnetic transient (EMT) simulation alongside real-time simulation of power hardware and hierarchical control systems. EMT simulation occurs on a high-performance computing server for scalability. Additionally, the paper describes a workflow and real-time data streaming software facilitating connectivity among EMT simulation, hierarchical control systems, and power hardware. This software enables automated equipment connectivity in the laboratory for realistic evaluations, aiding in identifying necessary upgrades for both equipment control systems and the power grid.

Marthi, Phani Ratna Vanamali [ORNL] (ORCID:0000000↗

Note on unit tangent vector computation for homotopy curve tracking on a hypercube

Probability-one homotopy methods are a class of methods for solving nonlinear systems of equations that are globally convergent from an arbitrary starting point. The essence of all such algorithms is the construction of an appropriate homotopy map and subsequent tracking of some smooth curve in the zero set of the homotopy map. Tracking a homotopy curve involves finding the unit tangent vector at different points along the zero curve, which amounts to calculating the kernel of the n x (n + 1) Jacobian matrix. While computing the tangent vector is just one part of the curve tracking algorithm, it can require a significant percentage of the total tracking time. This note presents computational results showing the performance of several different parallel orthogonal factorization/triangular system solving algorithms for the tangent vector computation on a hypercube.

Chakraborty, A.↗

Transforming Energy Through Computational Excellence: NREL's Computational Science Center

Computational methods underpin advancing the science and engineering of energy efficiency, sustainable transportation, renewable power technologies, and developing a knowledge base to optimize energy systems. NREL's Computational Science Center (CSC) proudly focuses on providing the service of computing, advancing the science of computing, and enabling NREL's clean energy mission.

applied mathematics↗

Diffraction studies applicable to 60-foot microwave research facilities

The principal features of this document are the analysis of a large dual-reflector antenna system by vector Kirchhoff theory, the evaluation of subreflector aperture-blocking, determination of the diffraction and blockage effects of a subreflector mounting structure, and an estimate of strut-blockage effects. Most of the computations are for a frequency of 15.3 GHz, and were carried out using the IBM 360/91 and 360/95 systems at Goddard Space Flight Center. The FORTRAN 4 computer program used to perform the computations is of a general and modular type so that various system parameters such as frequency, eccentricity, diameter, focal-length, etc. can be varied at will. The parameters of the 60-foot NRL Ku-band installation at Waldorf, Maryland, were entered into the program for purposes of this report. Similar calculations could be performed for the NELC installation at La Posta, California, the NASA Wallops Station facility in Virginia, and other antenna systems, by a simple change in IBM control cards. A comparison is made between secondary radiation patterns of the NRL antenna measured by DOD Satellite and those obtained by analytical/numerical methods at a frequency of 7.3 GHz.

Schmidt, R. F.↗

Monitoring Performance of Complex Systems

33-page report describes use of computers in automatic on-line monitoring of Centaur rocket prior to launch. Computers analyze measurements and verify events and commands. System uses adaptive software so only real problems are detected and brought to attention of engineers. Software techniques transferable to such industrial uses as batch process control and production line automation.

Thomas, W. F.↗

Error detection process - Model, design, and its impact on computer performance

An analytical model is developed for computer error detection processes and applied to estimate their influence on system performance. Faults in the hardware, not in the design, are assumed to be the potential cause of transition to erroneous states during normal operations. The classification properties and associated recovery methods of error detection are discussed. The probability of obtaining an unreliable result is evaluated, along with the resulting computational loss. Error detection during design is considered and a feasible design space is outlined. Extension of the methods to account for the effects of extant multiple faults is indicated.

Shin, K. G.↗

Bridging paradigms: Designing for HPC-Quantum convergence

Here, this paper presents a comprehensive software stack architecture for integrating quantum computing (QC) capabilities with High-Performance Computing (HPC) environments. While quantum computers show promise as specialized accelerators for scientific computing, their effective integration with classical HPC systems presents significant technical challenges. We propose a hardware-agnostic software framework that supports both current noisy intermediate-scale quantum devices and future fault-tolerant quantum computers, while maintaining compatibility with existing HPC workflows. The architecture includes a quantum gateway interface, standardized APIs for resource management, and robust scheduling mechanisms to handle both simultaneous and interleaved quantum–classical workloads. Key innovations include: (1) a unified resource management system that efficiently coordinates quantum and classical resources, (2) a flexible quantum programming interface that abstracts hardware-specific details, (3) A Quantum Platform Manager API that simplifies the integration of various quantum hardware systems, and (4) a comprehensive tool chain for quantum circuit optimization and execution. We demonstrate our architecture through implementation of quantum–classical algorithms, including the variational quantum linear solver, showcasing the framework’s ability to handle complex hybrid workflows while maximizing resource utilization. This work provides a foundational blueprint for integrating QC capabilities into existing HPC infrastructures, addressing critical challenges in resource management, job scheduling, and efficient data movement between classical and quantum resources.

97 MATHEMATICS AND COMPUTING↗

Flight experience with a fail-operational digital fly-by-wire control system

The NASA Dryden Flight Research Center is flight testing a triply redundant digital fly-by-wire (DFBW) control system installed in an F-8 aircraft. The full-time, full-authority system performs three-axis flight control computations, including stability and command augmentation, autopilot functions, failure detection and isolation, and self-test functions. Advanced control law experiments include an active flap mode for ride smoothing and maneuver drag reduction. This paper discusses research being conducted on computer synchronization, fault detection, fault isolation, and recovery from transient faults. The F-8 DFBW system has demonstrated immunity from nuisance fault declarations while quickly identifying truly faulty components.

Brown, S. R.↗

Efficient optimal design of suspension systems for rotating shafts

A new technique is proposed for the optimum design of suspension systems for rotating shafts. In this approach the conventional method of trial and error search for optimum parameter values for a prescribed design configuration has been replaced by an efficient two-stage procedure. In the first stage a generic force is substituted for the suspension system to be designed and the absolute optimum (or limiting) performance characteristics of the shaft are computed. In the second stage, using a chosen suspension system configuration, parameter identification techniques are are applied to find the design parameters so that the suspension system will respond as close as possible to the absolute optimal performance. In this approach the repetitive shaft analyses required in the conventional search techniques are avoided. Hence, the new technique is relatively efficient computationally and is suitable for large systems. Both linear and nonlinear suspension systems can be designed. A simple Jeffcott rotor is used to demonstrate the new technique.

Pilkey, W. D.↗

The Telestation: A product for distributed data gathering and operations

Advances in computer, navigation and wireless telecommunication technologies are enabling better electronic devices at reduced costs. Individually, these devices have been applied to increase the performance of many common systems, such as desktop computers, surveying equipment, and modems. However, we believe the convergence of these three technologies will create a product that simultaneously lowers life cycle costs while increasing operational effectiveness. Space Systems/Loral (SS/L) is developing portions of this product, known as the Telestation, for both terrestrial and orbital applications. The Telestation consists of an advanced microprocessor for command and data handling; a GPS receiver for position, time, and attitude information; and a Globalstar Transceiver for two-way digital communications. The Telestation provides the user with real-time command and control of globally distributed hardware elements. This capability can be applied terrestrially for gathering information (e.g., science, environmental, etc.) in remote or inhospitable locations, or where logistical support is inadequate. An in-orbit version can be used for spacecraft or payload operations, allowing principal investigators instant access to their payloads during all phases of a mission. This paper describes some cost effectiveness metrics of the Telestation, its development status, and its utility in both terrestrial and orbital applications.

Cleave, Robert R.↗

An Integrated Framework for Memory-Centric Analysis: From Trace Collection to Co-Design

The memory wall phenomenon—where advances in processor performance significantly outpace those in memory subsystems—poses a fundamental challenge for contemporary computing systems. In memory-bound applications, memory subsystem behavior dominates performance, yet existing analysis approaches present significant limitations: detailed microarchitectural simulators require days to weeks to simulate modest workloads; hardware performance counters provide only aggregate statistics that obscure temporal and spatial access patterns; and scaled simulation approaches face challenges in capturing certain behaviors that emerge at larger scales. These limitations reflect a processor-centric design philosophy increasingly misaligned with memory-bound workloads where detailed understanding of memory access patterns, cache hierarchy interactions, and contention is critical for effective optimization. This paper presents an integrated framework for memory-centric analysis that enables effective hardware-software co-design. We describe practical trace collection techniques, including hardware-assisted processor tracing with minimal overhead and portable software-based instrumentation with statistical sampling. We present multi-perspective analysis methods that examine memory behavior from temporal, sequential, spatial, and relational viewpoints, revealing distinct optimization opportunities invisible in aggregate metrics. We detail an architectural modeling framework that uses sampled traces with temporal interpolation and confidence-based filtering to evaluate cache and memory configurations. Evaluation on representative benchmarks demonstrates that this framework achieves practical accuracy (L2 cache errors of 2.64\%, confidence-filtered L3 errors of 9.92\%, bandwidth errors of 7.33\%) while providing substantial speedup (26.8×) over cycle-accurate simulation, enabling rapid design space exploration. We demonstrate how this integrated framework enables systematic identification of both hardware optimizations (memory controller tuning, bank partitioning, NUMA configuration) and software optimizations (data layout restructuring, prefetching strategies, memory-aware scheduling). Through this comprehensive treatment of the memory-centric analysis pipeline—from trace collection through architectural modeling to co-design application—we provide researchers and practitioners with practical techniques for addressing memory bottlenecks in contemporary computing systems.

Gajaria, Dhruv Mayur↗

Models and techniques for evaluating the effectiveness of aircraft computing systems

Models, measures and techniques were developed for evaluating the effectiveness of aircraft computing systems. The concept of effectiveness involves aspects of system performance, reliability and worth. Specifically done was a detailed development of model hierarchy at mission, functional task, and computational task levels. An appropriate class of stochastic models was investigated which served as bottom level models in the hierarchial scheme. A unified measure of effectiveness called 'performability' was defined and formulated.

Meyer, J. F.↗