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At least 1,621 records · Page 90

Random Testing and Model Checking: Building a Common Framework for Nondeterministic Exploration

Two popular forms of dynamic analysis, random testing and explicit-state software model checking, are perhaps best viewed as search strategies for exploring the state spaces introduced by nondeterminism in program inputs. We present an approach that enables this nondeterminism to be expressed in the SPIN model checker's PROMELA language, and then lets users generate either model checkers or random testers from a single harness for a tested C program. Our approach makes it easy to compare model checking and random testing for models with precisely the same input ranges and probabilities and allows us to mix random testing with model checking's exhaustive exploration of non-determinism. The PROMELA language, as intended in its design, serves as a convenient notation for expressing nondeterminism and mixing random choices with nondeterministic choices. We present and discuss a comparison of random testing and model checking. The results derive from using our framework to test a C program with an effectively infinite state space, a module in JPL's next Mars rover mission. More generally, we show how the ability of the SPIN model checker to call C code can be used to extend SPIN's features, and hope to inspire others to use the same methods to implement dynamic analyses that can make use of efficient state storage, matching, and backtracking.

dynamic analysis↗

Development of Graphical User Interface for ARRBOD (Acute Radiation Risk and BRYNTRN Organ Dose Projection)

The space radiation environment, particularly solar particle events (SPEs), poses the risk of acute radiation sickness (ARS) to humans; and organ doses from SPE exposure may reach critical levels during extra vehicular activities (EVAs) or within lightly shielded spacecraft. NASA has developed an organ dose projection model using the BRYNTRN with SUMDOSE computer codes, and a probabilistic model of Acute Radiation Risk (ARR). The codes BRYNTRN and SUMDOSE, written in FORTRAN, are a Baryon transport code and an output data processing code, respectively. The ARR code is written in C. The risk projection models of organ doses and ARR take the output from BRYNTRN as an input to their calculations. BRYNTRN code operation requires extensive input preparation. With a graphical user interface (GUI) to handle input and output for BRYNTRN, the response models can be connected easily and correctly to BRYNTRN in friendly way. A GUI for the Acute Radiation Risk and BRYNTRN Organ Dose (ARRBOD) projection code provides seamless integration of input and output manipulations, which are required for operations of the ARRBOD modules: BRYNTRN, SUMDOSE, and the ARR probabilistic response model. The ARRBOD GUI is intended for mission planners, radiation shield designers, space operations in the mission operations directorate (MOD), and space biophysics researchers. The ARRBOD GUI will serve as a proof-of-concept example for future integration of other human space applications risk projection models. The current version of the ARRBOD GUI is a new self-contained product and will have follow-on versions, as options are added: 1) human geometries of MAX/FAX in addition to CAM/CAF; 2) shielding distributions for spacecraft, Mars surface and atmosphere; 3) various space environmental and biophysical models; and 4) other response models to be connected to the BRYNTRN. The major components of the overall system, the subsystem interconnections, and external interfaces are described in this report; and the ARRBOD GUI product is explained step by step in order to serve as a tutorial.

Kim, Myung-Hee↗

Validation of NEAMS Tools Using MSRE Data

This report documents the benchmarks developed and performed for the tools and codes developed under the Nuclear Energy Advanced Modeling and Simulation (NEAMS) program utilizing the MSRE experiment data. There are three focus areas explored in this work: fuel evolution, CFD, and system transient analyses. Fuel depletion is important for MSR reactor physics and fuel cycle analysis. Fuel depletion capability is currently being developed in the Griffin reactor physics code. To support this, a benchmark problem is developed using the MSRE data and an existing depletion code with flowing fuel analysis functionality (ADDER) to validate this new capability in Griffin. The ADDER calculation is compared with the TRITON-MSR results as well as the MSRE experimental data. This benchmark can be directly used to verify and validate the Griffin fuel depletion capability in future years. For CFD simulation, the MSRE CAD model is obtained from the Copenhagen Atomics and a mesh is generated for the MSRE inlet plenum. The Nek5000 code will be employed to find the flow distribution in the MSRE inlet plenum based on the mesh generated. For system analysis, a simple benchmark problem for three types of MSR system transients is developed. The SAM and SPECTRA codes are used to solve the simple problem, and the results from the two codes agree well. The SAM code is also employed to obtain the frequency response of the MSRE system at the 5 and 8 MWt power levels. The results agree well with the experiment measurements. These verification and validation efforts gives SAM users more confidence in MSR system transient simulations using SAM. Lastly, the SAM-Griffin Multiphysics coupling work is initiated. A simple one-way coupling of evaluating the precursor drift effect on the MSRE k-eff is demonstrated. This preliminary coupling work serves as the basis for future more complex Multiphysics simulation and modelling.

46 INSTRUMENTATION RELATED TO NUCLEAR SCIENCE AND ↗

The effect of model uncertainty on some optimal routing problems

The effect of model uncertainties on optimal routing in a system of parallel queues is examined. The uncertainty arises in modeling the service time distribution for the customers (jobs, packets) to be served. For a Poisson arrival process and Bernoulli routing, the optimal mean system delay generally depends on the variance of this distribution. However, as the input traffic load approaches the system capacity the optimal routing assignment and corresponding mean system delay are shown to converge to a variance-invariant point. The implications of these results are examined in the context of gradient-based routing algorithms. An example of a model-independent algorithm using online gradient estimation is also included.

Mohanty, Bibhu↗

Cabin Environment Physics Risk Model

This paper presents a Cabin Environment Physics Risk (CEPR) model that predicts the time for an initial failure of Environmental Control and Life Support System (ECLSS) functionality to propagate into a hazardous environment and trigger a loss-of-crew (LOC) event. This physics-of failure model allows a probabilistic risk assessment of a crewed spacecraft to account for the cabin environment, which can serve as a buffer to protect the crew during an abort from orbit and ultimately enable a safe return. The results of the CEPR model replace the assumption that failure of the crew critical ECLSS functionality causes LOC instantly, and provide a more accurate representation of the spacecraft's risk posture. The instant-LOC assumption is shown to be excessively conservative and, moreover, can impact the relative risk drivers identified for the spacecraft. This, in turn, could lead the design team to allocate mass for equipment to reduce overly conservative risk estimates in a suboptimal configuration, which inherently increases the overall risk to the crew. For example, available mass could be poorly used to add redundant ECLSS components that have a negligible benefit but appear to make the vehicle safer due to poor assumptions about the propagation time of ECLSS failures.

Risk↗

Model-Agnostic Signal Discovery with Machine Learning: Bridging the Gap Between Theory and Practice

Searches for new phenomena in complex scientific data are predominantly model-dependent, optimized for specific hypotheses, and therefore limited in their coverage of the space of possible signals. Recently, new AI-based model-agnostic search strategies, many of which have been pioneered in high-energy physics, have been proposed which provide a complementary paradigm, prioritizing broad exploration over tailored analyses. These techniques offer an opportunity to enhance the overall discovery potential of modern experiments, especially in regimes where theoretical guidance is scarce. In this document, we review the conceptual framework behind the main classes of AI-based model-agnostic strategies. We discuss the potential pitfalls of these methods, and strategies for their validation and interpretation. We aim for this document to serve as a useful reference both for practitioners and for researchers interested in learning more about these model-agnostic search strategies.

Amram, Oz [Fermilab] (ORCID:0000000237653123)↗

Description of the LASSO Data Bundles Product

The U. S. Department of Energy (DOE) Atmospheric Radiation Measurement (ARM) user facility began a pilot project in May 2015 to design a routine, high-resolution modeling capability to complement ARM’s extensive suite of measurements. This modeling capability has evolved into the Large-Eddy Simulation (LES) ARM Symbiotic Simulation and Observation (LASSO) datastream. The datastream, broadly termed data bundles, contains high-resolution model output, input files, observations for evaluation, and skill scores for the simulations. The initial focus of LASSO is on shallow convection at the ARM Southern Great Plains (SGP) atmospheric observatory. The availability of LES simulations with concurrent observations serves many purposes. LES helps bridge the scale gap between DOE ARM observations and models, and the use of routine LES adds value to observations. It provides a self-consistent representation of the atmosphere and a dynamical context for the observations. Further, it elucidates unobservable processes and properties. LASSO generates a simulation library for researchers that enables statistical approaches beyond a single-case mentality. It also provides tools necessary for modelers to reproduce the LES and conduct their own sensitivity experiments. The LASSO library of data bundles is designed to facilitate a wide range of research. For an observationalist, LASSO can help inform instrument remote-sensing retrievals, conduct observation system simulation experiments (OSSEs), and test implications of radar scan strategies or flight paths. For a theoretician, LASSO can help calculate estimates of fluxes and co-variability of values, and test relationships without having to run the model personally. For a modeler, LASSO can help one know ahead of time which days have good forcing, have co-registered observations at high-resolution scales, and have simulation inputs and corresponding outputs to test parameterizations. Further details on the overall LASSO project are available at https://www.arm.gov/capabilities/modeling/lasso.

54 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES↗

Wind Energy Instrumentation Atlas

The US Department of Energy (DOE) A2e program is focused on developing the next generation of predictive tools to better understand wind plant performance and help industry lower the overall cost of energy. A formal verification and validation process is required to demonstrate improved accuracy of these new models beyond those currently employed. And a critical part of model validation is utilization of a diverse set of accurate observations of atmospheric forcing and wind plant response. A number of existing data sets that will be used for this purpose, as highlighted by Schreck and Maniaci (2017) but A2e researchers also realize that new datasets will be required to meet validation objectives. As such, plans for new experiments based on model validation priorities (NALU validation plan, 2017) are currently being developed. This document is intended to serve as a reference to experimental study planners that describes the capability, accuracy and resolution of existing and developing measurement technologies to observe quantities of interest for wind plant model validation. Such systems can be broken into two major categories: those that measure the flow field and surrounding atmosphere around and within a wind plant and those that measure the turbine response within the wind plant. The A2e validation team will use this catalogue of instrument capability in conjunction with the validation plan, to choose the optimal set of instruments to be deployed, inform instrument placement and operation and estimate the types of validation that may be gathered through new field campaigns. Where existing instrumentation is deficient, the document will also help guide DOE towards potential areas where instrumentation development is required to meet validation objectives and A2e technology development funding may be required. The domain of interest is the wind plant microscale, within and surrounding a single wind plant, typically, tens of kilometers on a side in horizontal directions and to the top of the atmospheric boundary layer (about 1km) in the vertical. Some observations of dominant mesoscale forcing phenomena are required, with the highest resolution measurements occurring in the wind turbine wakes and on the turbines themselves. The simulation tools to be validated are mesoscale driven large-eddy simulations of the atmosphere with full aeroelastic response of individual turbines within the plant. Use cases vary slightly among tool users, but should focus on the primary end customers of the simulations and research insights, which would be turbine manufacturers, wind plant developers and owners. Broadly speaking their interests are maximizing energy output, while maintaining turbine reliability and lifetime.

17 WIND ENERGY↗

Statistical prediction with Kanerva's sparse distributed memory

A new viewpoint of the processing performed by Kanerva's sparse distributed memory (SDM) is presented. In conditions of near- or over-capacity, where the associative-memory behavior of the model breaks down, the processing performed by the model can be interpreted as that of a statistical predictor. Mathematical results are presented which serve as the framework for a new statistical viewpoint of sparse distributed memory and for which the standard formulation of SDM is a special case. This viewpoint suggests possible enhancements to the SDM model, including a procedure for improving the predictiveness of the system based on Holland's work with genetic algorithms, and a method for improving the capacity of SDM even when used as an associative memory.

Rogers, David↗

Unsteady Aerodynamic Modeling of Atmospheric Entry Vehicles in Subsonic and Incompressible flow: A Frequency Response Approach

The determination of time-varying lift force and pitch moment generated by a purely pitching Earth-entry capsule is investigated. Experiments were conducted in the 12-foot Low-Speed Tunnel at NASA Langley Research Center, testing a range of oscillation frequencies at a zero-mean angle of attack with a pitching amplitude of 10 degrees. In light of these measurements, a closed-form set of analytically derived equations for lift and moment was used to develop a semi-empirical formulation, incorporating empirically determined values from the experimental runs. The equations are grounded in potential flow theory, Theodorsen's classical theory of unsteady aerodynamics, and the Joukowski theorem of conformal mapping. The unsteady aerodynamics generated by the oscillating body are then modeled by constructing frequency response functions, with quasi-steady forces and moments serving as inputs and unsteady forces and moments as outputs. The experimentally determined gain and phase variations characterize the unsteady nature of the flow and the system's response and flow time-lag to input flow parameters for a blunt-body entry vehicle. The final semi-empirical model is validated with a set of parameters beyond the initial test matrix.

Entry Systems Modeling↗

Unsteady Aerodynamic Modeling of Atmospheric Entry Vehicles in Subsonic and Incompressible Flow: A Frequency Response Approach

The determination of time-varying lift force and pitch moment generated by a purely pitching Earth-entry capsule is investigated. Experiments were conducted in the 12-foot Low-Speed Tunnel at NASA Langley Research Center, testing a range of oscillation frequencies at a zero-mean angle of attack with a pitching amplitude of 10 degrees. In light of these measurements, a closed-form set of analytically derived equations for lift and moment was used to develop a semi-empirical formulation, incorporating empirically determined values from the experimental runs. The equations are grounded in potential flow theory, Theodorsen's classical theory of unsteady aerodynamics, and the Joukowski theorem of conformal mapping. The unsteady aerodynamics generated by the oscillating body are then modeled by constructing frequency response functions, with quasi-steady forces and moments serving as inputs and unsteady forces and moments as outputs. The experimentally determined gain and phase variations characterize the unsteady nature of the flow and the system's response and flow time-lag to input flow parameters for a blunt-body entry vehicle. The final semi-empirical model is validated with a set of parameters beyond the initial test matrix.

Entry Systems Modeling↗

Capacitance of Carbon Nanotube/Graphene Composite Electrodes with [BMIM + ][BF$_4^–$]/Acetonitrile: Fixed Voltage Molecular Dynamics Simulations

The capacitance of nanoporous carbon electrode materials is dictated by the physical interactions with electrolyte ions and molecules at the accessible interior electrode surface. While significant progress has been made in designing and synthesizing carbon materials with well-defined and relatively homogeneous nanoporosity, the majority of materials remain heterogeneous, and the resulting properties reflect an average over this distribution. In this regard, computer simulations can be a valuable tool to predict or validate structure/property relationships by systematically investigating well-defined, model electrode morphologies. In this work, we utilize fixed-voltage molecular dynamics simulations to predict structure/capacitance relationships for five different model morphologies of carbon nanotube/graphene (CNT/G) composite electrodes with 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate/acetonitrile electrolyte. The CNT/G electrode models are inspired by experimental “layer-by-layer” syntheses and strike a balance between realism and computational tractability. Comparison between different model electrode architectures elucidates important structure/property relationships. We find that CNT/graphene contact points serve as “hot spots” with significantly enhanced charge separation relative to the rest of the electrode. Furthermore, we demonstrate a specific nanoconfinement motif that provides substantial 3–4$\times$ enhancement of local capacitance, resulting in a ~40% increase of the total electrode differential capacitance. Because the accessible surface area of the model CNT/G electrodes is precisely determined, a comparison of per-area capacitance across systems is unambiguous. Our results thus complement a prior computational demonstration of capacitance enhancement in nanoconfinement while elucidating additional interaction motifs at CNT/G electrochemical interfaces.

37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CH↗

Better Plant Data at the Root of Ecosystem Models

Version 2 of the Fine-Root Ecology Database. Fine roots are complex and dynamic structures that serve many critical roles for land plants. Their well-known importance for acquiring water and nutrients and associations with soil microbes underpin many terrestrial processes, including the movement of carbon, nutrients, and water through terrestrial ecosystems. Despite this importance, uncertainty shrouds the traits and processes associated with these enigmatic organs. Such uncertainty limits confidence in our terrestrial biosphere models that incorporate information based on fine-root data. For example, without knowledge of how roots grow and function, scientists struggle to predict how plants and ecosystems will respond to changes in atmospheric carbon dioxide as belowground resources become more limiting to plant growth. To address this challenge, an international group of researchers developed and released in 2017 the first version of a new resource: the Fine-Root Ecology Database (FRED) [Iversen et al., 2017]. Since that time, FRED has undergone significant improvement and additions, culminating in the release of FRED version 2.0 [Iversen et al., 2018]. FRED is a fully open resource containing species-specific as well as mixed-species root trait data that encompass all vegetated terrestrial biomes.

54 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES↗

Constraint-based modelling captures the metabolic versatility of Desulfovibrio vulgaris

A refined Desulfovibrio vulgaris Hildenborough flux balance analysis (FBA) model (iJF744) was developed, incorporating 1016 reactions that include 744 genes and 951 metabolites. A draft model was first developed through automatic model reconstruction using the ModelSeed Server and then curated based on existing literature. The curated model was further refined by incorporating three recently proposed redox reactions involving the Hdr-Flx and Qmo complexes and a lactate dehydrogenase (LdhAB, DVU 3027-3028) indicated by mutation and transcript analyses to serve electron transfer reactions central to syntrophic and respiratory growth. Eight different variations of this model were evaluated by comparing model predictions to experimental data determined for four different growth conditions -three for sulfate respiration (with lactate, pyruvate or H2/CO2-acetate) and one for fermentation in syntrophic coculture. The final general model supports (i) a role for Hdr-Flx in the oxidation of DsrC and ferredoxin, and reduction of NAD+ in a flavin-based electron confurcating reaction sequence, (ii) a function of the Qmo complex in receiving electrons from the menaquinone pool and potentially from ferredoxin to reduce APS and (iii) a reduction of the soluble DsrC by LdhAB and a function of DsrC in electron transfer reactions other than sulfite reduction.

59 BASIC BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES↗

Forward Bay Cover Separation Modeling and Testing for the Orion Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle

Spacecraft multi‐body separation events during atmospheric descent require complex testing and analysis to validate the flight separation dynamics model and to verify no recontact. NASA Orion Multi‐Purpose Crew Vehicle (MPCV) teams examined key model parameters and risk areas to develop a robust but affordable test campaign in order to validate and verify the Forward Bay Cover (FBC) separation event for Exploration Flight Test‐1 (EFT‐1). The FBC jettison simulation model is highly complex, consisting of dozens of parameters varied simultaneously, with numerous multi‐parameter interactions (coupling and feedback) among the various model elements, and encompassing distinct near‐field, mid‐field, and far‐field regimes. The test campaign was composed of component‐level testing (for example gas‐piston thrusters and parachute mortars), ground FBC jettison tests, and FBC jettison air‐drop tests that were accomplished by a highly multi‐disciplinary team. Three ground jettison tests isolated the testing of mechanisms and structures to anchor the simulation models excluding aerodynamic effects. Subsequently, two air‐drop tests added aerodynamic and parachute parameters, and served as integrated system demonstrations, which had been preliminarily explored during the Orion Pad Abort‐1 (PA‐1) flight test in May 2010. Both ground and drop tests provided extensive data to validate analytical models and to verify the FBC jettison event for EFT‐1, but more testing is required to support human certification, for which NASA and Lockheed Martin are applying knowledge from Apollo and EFT‐1 testing and modeling to develop a robust but affordable human spacecraft capability.

Ali, Yasmin↗

Desert-Urban SysTem IntegratEd AtmospherIc Monsoon (DUSTIEAIM) in the Southwestern United States

Phoenix, Arizona, is the fifth-largest city in the United States with about 1.6 million residents. It is also considered to be the hottest major city in the country, having set a record of 31 consecutive days with temperatures above 110 F (43 C) in summer 2023. Phoenix depends on the Colorado River for over a third of its water supply, but there are questions about how much water will eventually be available to serve the rapidly growing metropolitan area, especially in such extreme heat. Current earth system models struggle to accurately capture precipitation in the Southwestern United States, especially in relation to the summertime North American Monsoon.

54 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES↗

A simple Rice-Ashby ductile–brittle transition temperature (DBTT) model based on dislocation mobility for body-centered cubic complex concentrated alloys

A simple Rice-Ashby type model for ductile–brittle transition temperature (DBTT) of body-centered cubic (bcc) complex concentrated alloys (structures) is presented. The effect of accumulation of dislocation density on DBTT is also analyzed. The model results are compared with experimental yield stress vs. temperature data for four complex concentrated alloys: Nb 45 Ta 25 Ti 15 Hf 15 (NTTH), MoNbTaW, HfNbTaTiZr, NbTiZr and two pure bcc metals, Fe and W. It is shown that the DBTT behavior of these alloys and pure metals are in agreement with the simple ductility model presented in this manuscript. The DBTT model presented in this manuscript along with yield strength models for bcc complex concentrated alloys described in the literature should serve as a useful guide for designing such alloys with good high temperature strength and significant room temperature ductility.

Crack tip processes↗

Mapping the Path Forward to Next Generation Algal Technologies: Workshop on Understanding the Rules of Life and Complexity in Algal Systems

Algal technology offers enormous potential as a source of renewable biomass and bioproducts for fuels, biochemicals, nutrients, and numerous other applications. While tremendous opportunities exist, significant challenges are also present in harnessing and utilizing this valuable and potentially sustainable bioproduction platform. Funded by a joint partnership between the Bioenergy Technologies Office (BETO) at the Department of Energy (DOE) and the National Science Foundation (NSF), the recent virtual workshop, "Understanding the Rules of Life: Complexity in Algal Systems Workshop," was organized to bring together thought leaders from academia, national laboratories and other government agencies, and industry to identify key challenges and propose research strategies to overcome these barriers. Two parallel sessions were undertaken: 1) algae strain and toolkit development and 2) algal ecosystem and microbiome dynamics, in order to advance algae engineering and cultivation efforts. In each session, attendees discussed the most pressing challenges from the perspective of model systems and omics analysis. Themes such as genetic engineering toolboxes, translation from the laboratory to outdoor cultivation, functional genomics, metabolomics, algal ecology, consortial design, microbiome dynamics, mathematical models, and data analytics emerged from the discussion. Overall, this workshop has served to elucidate the key hurdles and many opportunities present as we continue to advance algal science and technology from the laboratory and into the commercial realm.

09 BIOMASS FUELS↗