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At least 1,063 records · Page 59

Quantum Approximate Optimization with Hard and Soft Constraints

Challenging computational problems arising in the practical world are frequently tackled by heuristic algorithms. Small universal quantum computers will emerge in the next year or two, enabling a substantial broadening of the types of quantum heuristics that can be investigated beyond quantum annealing. The immediate question is What experiments should we prioritize that will give us insight into quantum heuristics? One leading candidate is the quantum approximate optimization algorithm (QAOA) metaheuristic. Here, we provide a framework for designing QAOA circuits for a variety of combinatorial optimization problems with both hard constraints that must be met and soft constraints whose violation we wish to minimize. We work through a number of examples, and discuss design principles and implementation considerations.

Hadfield, Stuart↗

Numerical and Experimental Study of Local Resin Pressure for the Manufacturing of Composite Structures and Their Effect on Porosity

Porosity can have significant impact on the mechanical performance of composite structures. The primary sources of voids during the cure of composites include air entrapped during lay-up, bag or tool leaks, and the off gassing of volatiles. Capturing the physics of void evolution during composite processing is a challenge due to the number of sources and changing phenomena that give rise to voids as the resin cures. Local changes in resin pressure due to geometric features or cure shrinkage have been experimentally linked to a higher likelihood of void formation. In this work, a preliminary model was developed to predict local resin pressure which can be used to identify regions more susceptible to porosity. Experiments were conducted to validate the model accuracy. Ultimately, this model can be used as a tool to minimize the likelihood of porosity by optimizing the material selection, part design, layup, and cure process.

Bedayat, Houman↗

Robust controllers for the Middeck Active Control Experiment using Popov controller synthesis

Recent work in robust control with real parameter uncertainties has focused on absolute stability and its connections to real mu theory. In particular, the research has investigated the Popov stability criterion and its associated Lur'e-Postnikov Liapunov functions. State space representations of this Popov stability analysis tests are included in an H2 design formulation to provide a powerful technique for robust controller synthesis. This synthesis approach uses a state space optimization procedure to design controllers that minimize an overbound of an H2 cost functional and satisfy stability analysis tests based on the Popov multiplier. The controller and stability multiplier coefficients are optimized simultaneously, which avoids the iteration and curve-fitting procedures required by the D-K algorithm of mu synthesis. While previous work has demonstrated this synthesis approach on benchmark control problems, the purpose of this paper is to use Popov controller synthesis to design robust compensators for the Middeck Active Control Experiment (MACE).

How, Jonathan P.↗

Static characterization of a highly optimized streak tube design incorporating a steering slot anode and an aberration-corrected Einzel lens

The BHx streak tube, under development at the Laboratory for Laser Energetics, incorporates a series of novel electron-optics elements to enable high fidelity measurements for high-energy-density physics experiments. The system is engineered to support a 25-mm active photocathode region compatible with sub-picosecond temporal resolution and with 70% internal photoelectron throughput. It exhibits negligible geometric distortion on a flat output screen, making it well suited for variety of measurements, such as ultrafast x-ray spectroscopy. Here, this paper presents characterization data from a prototype unit tested with an ultraviolet laser in a static deflection (non-swept) mode and shows good agreement with the predictions from numerical modeling, including focusing performance and geometric distortion measurements. Key design elements have been demonstrated and de-risked, laying the foundation for dynamic deflection testing. The anticipated improvements in data fidelity are expected to impact the fields as diverse as inertial confinement fusion, laboratory astrophysics, and materials science.

High energy density physics↗

Rapid Bayesian High Entropy Alloy Designs Fabricated via Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing

Purpose: This project seeks to demonstrate a new high-throughput (rapid) alloy design technique applied to creating new high entropy alloys (HEAs) for extreme environments. High entropy alloys shift the design paradigm from being focused on a single principal element (e.g. nickel-based alloys) to target alloys that include high atomic fractions (X >10%) of multiple elements. These HEA materials can exhibit sluggish diffusion and enhanced corrosion resistance, ideal for potential applications in advanced ultra supercritical (A-USC) steam cycles for power generation. Scope: The addition of multiple elements in high atomic fractions creates an enormous design space that cannot easily be investigated by traditional material design strategies such as designed of experiments (DOE). This project utilizes a Bayesian machine learning algorithm that has been modified to work with calculation of phase diagrams (CALPHAD) software. This Bayesian algorithm reduces manual inputs and increase the likelihood of achieving an optimal solution. Compositional inputs to this algorithm will be assessed using existing material property models for high temperature strength and corrosion resistance. The target for alloy performance will be a 15% (~100 ⁰C) increase in allowable service temperature beyond heat-resistant stainless steels while maintaining or improving alloy cost and corrosion resistance. Haynes 230 was selected as a baseline, which is 57 wt% Ni with 22 wt% Cr 14 wt% W, and 2 wt% Mo as solid solution strengtheners. In addition to rapid design via Bayesian machine learning, the alloys were rapidly fabricated using a multi-wire arc additive manufacturing (mWAAM) technique which allows for precise control of alloy composition and assessing of alloy design “windows” to study composition effects. Build speeds for wire-arc additive processes are among the highest for additive technologies enabling rapid and reliable sample fabrication when compared to conventional methods such as arc button melting. The mWAAM samples will be rapidly characterized via instrumented indentation for room temperature modulus and strength and for elevated temperature strength via hot hardness tests. After being screened with hardness testing, potential alloys will be further evaluated with conventional microscopy techniques including scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to assess agreement with modeling results. The most promising compositions will also be evaluated by printing full sized tensile specimens for mechanical behavior tests at elevated temperatures. Results: Bayesian machine learning of a single performance function was initially used to optimize five performance metrics: 1) single phase stability, 2) yield strength, 3) creep resistance (low diffusion coefficient), 4) freezing range (weldability), and 5) material cost. The single performance function was suboptimal as assumptions had to be made about the results while formulating the optimization. A goal-oriented Bayesian optimization strategy (Hanaoka, 2021) was implemented with CALPHAD for use with the five metrics above. This multi-objective Bayesian optimization (MOBO) enabled the design of NiCrCoFe alloys with V and W additions. A base composition of NiCoCr was selected as Ni provides a stable FCC matrix, Cr aids corrosion/oxidation resistance, and Co is a solid-solutions strengthener that also improves creep by increasing the activation energy. Fe helps reduce diffusion coefficients and cost. Finally, V and W were selected for their reasonable solubility and high atomic misfit to aid in solid solution strengthening. Cracking of the mWAAM specimens was an early issue, and the Easton solidification cracking model (Easton et al., 2014a) was selected for addition to the MOBO function. High performing alloys fabricated by mWAAM included Ni 28 Cr 25 Co 26 Fe 15 V 8 and Ni 62 Cr 18 Co 1 Fe 3 W 15 . It was observed that even after adapting the mWAAM process for W, the W did not fully dissolve. To fully evaluate the Ni 62 Cr 18 Co 1 Fe 3 W 15 composition, a cored wire (80-20 NiCr sheath/powder core) was manufactured and printed via WAAM, and HIP’ing was utilized to homogenize and densify the printed alloy. The V and W alloys produced met metrics 1 (solid solution), 4 (solidification cracking), and 5 (cost). However, an unmodeled mechanism of thermal stress cracking was identified in the WAAM produced materials, perhaps exacerbated by the lack of grain boundary strengthening elements (B, C). Conclusions & Recommendations: A high-throughput (rapid) alloy design technique was applied to designing and manufacturing new high entropy alloys (HEAs) for extreme environments utilizing MOBO and mWAAM. The developed process was rapid and effective in addressing the mechanisms included in the model. The lack of grain boundary strengthening element additions (e.g., B, C) was a simplification that likely produced thermal stress cracking that turned into a large part of the investigation. Additions on the order of 0.005 wt% B and 0.05 wt% C likely would have minimized thermal stress grain boundary cracking. Overall, the high throughput design strategy is promising for rapid design of metrics-driven alloys for advanced ultra supercritical (A-USC) steam cycles for power generation. The MOBO and mWAAM process could be commercialized to accelerate metrics-driven alloy design. In addition, the cored-wire process utilized for scale-up is a promising high-volume process for WAAM alloy development and scale-up.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

DETECTION OF FAST TRANSIENTS WITH RADIO INTERFEROMETRIC ARRAYS

Next-generation radio arrays, including the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) and its pathfinders, will open up new avenues for exciting transient science at radio wavelengths. Their innovative designs, comprising a large number of small elements, pose several challenges in digital processing and optimal observing strategies. The Giant Metre-wave Radio Telescope (GMRT) presents an excellent test-bed for developing and validating suitable observing modes and strategies for transient experiments with future arrays. Here we describe the first phase of the ongoing development of a transient detection system for GMRT that is planned to eventually function in a commensal mode with other observing programs. It capitalizes on the GMRT's interferometric and sub-array capabilities, and the versatility of a new software backend. We outline considerations in the plan and design of transient exploration programs with interferometric arrays, and describe a pilot survey that was undertaken to aid in the development of algorithms and associated analysis software. This survey was conducted at 325 and 610 MHz, and covered 360 deg{sup 2} of the sky with short dwell times. It provides large volumes of real data that can be used to test the efficacies of various algorithms and observing strategies applicable for transient detection. We present examples that illustrate the methodologies of detecting short-duration transients, including the use of sub-arrays for higher resilience to spurious events of terrestrial origin, localization of candidate events via imaging, and the use of a phased array for improved signal detection and confirmation. In addition to demonstrating applications of interferometric arrays for fast transient exploration, our efforts mark important steps in the roadmap toward SKA-era science.

46 INSTRUMENTATION RELATED TO NUCLEAR SCIENCE AND ↗

Locating damaged members in a truss structure using modal test data - A demonstration experiment

An experiment is designed to demonstrate and verify the performance of the on-orbit assessment approach for large flexible space truss structures. The on-orbit assessment approach can be accomplished, in principle, with dynamic response information, structural identification methods, and model correlation techniques which produce an adjusted mathematical model. An optimal update of the structure model is formed using the response data, then examined to locate damaged members. The experiment uses a laboratory scale model truss structure which exhibits characteristics expected for large space truss structures. Vibration experiments are performed to generate response data for the damaged truss. The damage location approach is described, as well as analytical work performed in support of the vibration tests, the measured response of the test article, and some preliminary results.

Smith, Suzanne Weaver↗

THE FIRST FOCUSED HARD X-RAY IMAGES OF THE SUN WITH NuSTAR

We present results from the the first campaign of dedicated solar observations undertaken by the Nuclear Spectroscopic Telescope ARray ( NuSTAR ) hard X-ray (HXR) telescope. Designed as an astrophysics mission, NuSTAR nonetheless has the capability of directly imaging the Sun at HXR energies (>3 keV) with an increase in sensitivity of at least two magnitude compared to current non-focusing telescopes. In this paper we describe the scientific areas where NuSTAR will make major improvements on existing solar measurements. We report on the techniques used to observe the Sun with NuSTAR , their limitations and complications, and the procedures developed to optimize solar data quality derived from our experience with the initial solar observations. These first observations are briefly described, including the measurement of the Fe K-shell lines in a decaying X-class flare, HXR emission from high in the solar corona, and full-disk HXR images of the Sun.

79 ASTRONOMY AND ASTROPHYSICS↗

Design and simulation of the snowflake divertor control for NSTX-U

This study presents the development of a physics-based multiple-input-multiple-output algorithm for real-time feedback control of snowflake divertor (SFD) configurations on the National Spherical Torus eXperiment Upgrade (NSTX-U). A model of the SFD configuration response to applied voltages on the divertor control coils is first derived and then used, in conjunction with multivariable control synthesis techniques, to design an optimal state feedback controller for the configuration. To demonstrate the capabilities of the controller, a nonlinear simulator for axisymmetric shape control was developed for NSTX-U which simultaneously evolves the currents in poloidal field coils based upon a set of feedback-computed voltage commands, calculates the induced currents in passive conducting structures, and updates the plasma equilibrium by solving the free-boundary Grad-Shafranov problem. Closed-loop simulations demonstrate that the algorithm enables controlled operations in a variety of SFD configurations and provides capabilities for accurate tracking of time-dependent target trajectories for the divertor geometry. In particular, simulation results suggest that a time-varying controller which can properly account for the evolving SFD dynamical response is not only desirable but necessary for achieving acceptable control performance. The algorithm presented in this paper has been implemented in the NSTX-U Plasma Control System in preparation for future control and divertor physics experiments.

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY↗

Design and simulation of the snowflake divertor control for NSTX-U

This paper presents the development of a physics-based multiple-input-multiple-output algorithm for real-time feedback control of snowflake divertor (SFD) configurations on the National Spherical Torus eXperiment Upgrade (NSTX-U). A model of the SFD configuration response to applied voltages on the divertor control coils is first derived and then used, in conjunction with multivariable control synthesis techniques, to design an optimal state feedback controller for the configuration. To demonstrate the capabilities of the controller, a nonlinear simulator for axisymmetric shape control was developed for NSTX-U which simultaneously evolves the currents in poloidal field coils based upon a set of feedback-computed voltage commands, calculates the induced currents in passive conducting structures, and updates the plasma equilibrium by solving the free-boundary Grad-Shafranov problem. Closed-loop simulations demonstrate that the algorithm enables controlled operations in a variety of SFD configurations and provides capabilities for accurate tracking of time-dependent target trajectories for the divertor geometry. In particular, simulation results suggest that a time-varying controller which can properly account for the evolving SFD dynamical response is not only desirable but necessary for achieving acceptable control performance. The algorithm presented in this paper has been implemented in the NSTX-U Plasma Control System in preparation for future control and divertor physics experiments.

snowflake divertor, MIMO feedback control, nonline↗

Designing workflows for materials characterization

Experimental science is enabled by the combination of synthesis, imaging, and functional characterization organized into evolving discovery loop. Synthesis of new material is typically followed by a set of characterization steps aiming to provide feedback for optimization or discover fundamental mechanisms. However, the sequence of synthesis and characterization methods and their interpretation, or research workflow, has traditionally been driven by human intuition and is highly domain specific. Here, we explore concepts of scientific workflows that emerge at the interface between theory, characterization, and imaging. In this study, we discuss the criteria by which these workflows can be constructed for special cases of multiresolution structural imaging and functional characterization, as a part of more general material synthesis workflows. Some considerations for theory–experiment workflows are provided. We further pose that the emergence of user facilities and cloud labs disrupts the classical progression from ideation, orchestration, and execution stages of workflow development. To accelerate this transition, we propose the framework for workflow design, including universal hyperlanguages describing laboratory operation, ontological domain matching, reward functions and their integration between domains, and policy development for workflow optimization. These tools will enable knowledge-based workflow optimization; enable lateral instrumental networks, sequential and parallel orchestration of characterization between dissimilar facilities; and empower distributed research.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

System design of a remotely operated, program controlled measurement table for the calibration of the Egret experiment. Part A: Program control

The structure of the program, the five priority levels, the drive routines, the stepwise drive plan, the figure routines, meander X and y, the range of measurement table, the optimization of figure drive, the figure drive plan, dialogue routines, stack processing, the drive for the main terminal, the protocol routines, the drive for the microterminal, the drive for the experiment computer, and the main program are discussed.

Source record↗

Rapid torque-limited line-of-sight pointing of SCOLE (Spacecraft Control Laboratory Experiment) configuration

The design concept of a control for rapid torque-limited slewing of a rigid-mast version of the NASA SCOLE configuration is presented and demonstrated by means of numerical simulation. The time-optimal control problem for the system is decomposed into separate single-axis problems, expanding analytically the implicit nonlinear transcendental expression for the SCOLE line-of-sight error, and the final Euler attitude angles and slew angles are determined. The simulation results are presented in tables and graphs, and it is found that bang-bang or bang-pause-bang slew maneuvers with control moment applied to the Shuttle and control force applied to the reflector, and with a 5-deg/s slew-rate limit, produce the best pointing accuracy and the shortest slew times, although the specified line-of-sight error of 0.02 deg cannot be achieved using such open-loop single-axis maneuvers.

Lin, J. G.↗

TREAT Multi-SERTTA Neutronics Design and Analysis Support

Transient Reactor Experiment Test (TREAT) experiment vehicle design is necessary in preparation for TREAT facility restart and the resumption of transient testing to support current Accident Tolerant Fuel (ATF) characterization needs and future fuels testing requirements. Currently the most mature vehicle design is the Multi-SERTTA (Static Environments Rodlet Transient Test Apparatuses), which can accommodate up to four concurrent rodlet-sized specimens under separate environmental conditions. Development of this robust test vehicle design requires neutronics analyses to support optimization of the Power Coupling Factor (PCF) to efficiently maximize energy generation in the fuel rodlets and to perform essential safety analyses. Current Multi-SERTTA calculations support final design of this vehicle, the design process for other TREAT vehicles, and the development of analyses practices for upcoming transient testing experiments. Models of the preliminary design Multi-SERTTA vehicle with rodlets were prepared and neutronics calculations were performed using MCNP6.1 with ENDF/B-VII.1 nuclear data libraries. Discussion of results.

11 NUCLEAR FUEL CYCLE AND FUEL MATERIALS↗

Design Optimization of A-Type Heat Exchangers based on High Performance, Non-Round Tubes

Air-to-refrigerant heat exchangers (HXs) have been the topic of considerable research as they are the fundamental heat transfer components of HVAC&R systems. For residential and commercial applications, indoor heat exchangers are often in A-type configurations to reduce air-conditioner system footprint while still delivering the required cooling or heating. Classical HX design practices typically assume a uniform frontal air velocity profile to facilitate the use of conventional tube-fin airside heat transfer and pressure drop correlations for performance prediction. However, it is well-reported throughout the literature that A-type HXs experience significant airflow maldistribution which can severely degrade HX performance. Additionally, recent advancements in simulation software such as Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and optimization algorithms have led researchers to consider primary heat transfer surface optimization to achieve highly compact HXs which do not require fins. In this paper, an A-type HX which utilizes shape-optimized non-round tubes is optimized for minimum duct size and airside pressure drop. This is achieved through coupling of an experimentally validated finite volume HX model with automated 2D CFD simulations of airflow through the HX for airside thermal-hydraulic performance evaluation. Preliminary results show that the optimal designs deliver similar capacity while achieving 20% reductions in airside pressure drop and duct cross-section area. Additionally, the optimal design apex angles in this study were similar to those from previous A-Type HX optimization studies for conventional tube-fin HX geometries, suggesting that the apex angle for optimal A-Type configuration performance may be independent of tube geometry.

42 ENGINEERING↗

NIO1 diagnostics

The radio frequency ion source NIO1, jointly developed by Consorzio RFX and INFN-LNL, will generate a 60kV-135mA hydrogen negative ion beam, composed of 9 beamlets over an area of about 40 × 40 mm{sup 2}. This experiment will operate in continuous mode and in conditions similar to those foreseen for the larger ion sources of the Neutral Beam Injectors for ITER. The modular design of NIO1 is convenient to address the several still open important issues related to beam extraction, optics, and performance optimization. To this purpose a set of diagnostics is being implemented. Electric and water cooling plant related measurements will allow monitoring current, pressure, flow, and temperature. The plasma in the source will be characterized by emission spectroscopy, cavity ring-down and laser absorption spectroscopy. The accelerated beam will be analyzed with a fast emittance scanner, its intensity profile and divergence with beam emission spectroscopy and visible tomography. The power distribution of the beam on the calorimeter will be monitored by thermocouples and by an infrared camera. This contribution presents the implementation and initial operation of some of these diagnostics in the commissioning phase of the experiment, in particular the cooling water calorimetry and emission spectroscopy.

43 PARTICLE ACCELERATORS↗

Neutronics Analysis Supporting Baseline Fuel-Rodlet Irradiation Design in TREAT Multi-SERTTA Vehicle

The Transient Reactor Test (TREAT) Facility is a thermal-spectrum test reactor designed to evaluate reactor fuels and structural material under simulated nuclear excursion and transient power/cooling mismatch situations in nuclear reactors. TREAT was historically operated from 1959 through 1994. There are ongoing activities to resume its transient testing capabilities to support advanced reactor designs and validate computational predictions of fuel and core behavior. Such validation will be an important factor for review and approval of next generation power reactor design and safety evaluations. Historic methods used in TREAT were very approximate and served to estimate a predicted transient power shape. A number of calibration test experiments were then required prior to the actual transient test to better estimate the power that would have been deposited in the experiment during a transient pulse. Much of the experience in the use of these legacy methods has also been lost over the past two decades. Monte Carlo criticality codes are being utilized for calculation of the initial critical state, control rod reactivity worth, and power coupling between core and experiments. Current efforts primarily support neutronics characterization with safety and design analyses for the Multi-SERTTA (Static Environment Rodlet Transient Test Apparatuses) experiment test vehicle, which can accommodate up to four concurrent rodlets under separate environmental conditions. Ongoing efforts are necessary in preparation of transient testing support for Accident Tolerant Fuel (ATF) characterization and other future fuels testing requirements. The power coupling factor (PCF) is one of two key parameters utilized in designing and characterizing the performance of a TREAT fuel irradiation experiment. The second key parameter is the Transient Correction Factor (TCF) which accounts for time-dependent effects. The PCF is the effective quantity of fission-generated energy per mass of fuel specimen per total core energy. The quantity of energy deposited into a fuel rodlet under various test environments can be used to evaluate overall fuel performance, including failure mechanisms and thresholds. Baseline fuel rodlet calculations have been performed to estimate the effectiveness of the Multi-SERTTA test vehicle and optimization of PCF for various test conditions. The baseline serves as reference fuel pin conditions against which calibration and baseline experiments can be performed prior to actual ATF transient testing. Baseline experiments further serve to validate computational analyses and experimental test methods prior to design planning, experimentation, and evaluation of the ATF candidates. This paper serves to document activities performed to evaluate a reference Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR) rodlet design in the TREAT Multi-SERTTA test vehicle. (authors)

42 ENGINEERING↗

Importance of Radiative Transfer Models in Atmospheric Remote Sensing

Radiative transfer models (RTMs) play a significant role in the development of satellite instruments for remote sensing applications. These models simulate electromagnetic radiation's propagation through the atmosphere, providing valuable insights into atmosphere-radiation interactions. RTMs facilitate the optimization of satellite instrument designs, ensuring their ability to measure targeted atmospheric and surface properties accurately. Moreover, they aid in simulating instrument’s measurements under various atmospheric conditions, enabling calibration and validation processes to enhance data quality and reliability. RTMs are extensively used in the Observing System Simulation Experiments (OSSE), to generate synthetic observations. By incorporating RTMs into OSSE, we can assess the potential impact of future satellite missions, sensor configurations, and data assimilation techniques. This approach allows for the optimization of satellite instruments and constellations and the evaluation of their influence on weather forecasting, climate monitoring, and other Earth science applications. Another crucial application area of RT models is data assimilation, where they play a fundamental role in combining satellite observations with numerical models to improve atmospheric and environmental predictions. RTMs provide the link between observed radiances and atmospheric parameters, enhancing the accuracy of numerical models and generating more reliable forecasts for weather events, air quality assessments, and climate projections. Moreover, adapting RT models to capture the intricate radiation interactions within the Planetary Boundary Layer will significantly contribute to improving weather forecasting and climate change projections. Current community radiative transfer (RT) models are primarily developed and optimized for operational data assimilation of satellite observations. These models excel at assimilating satellite data into numerical weather prediction models to improve forecast accuracy. However, their focus on data assimilation limits their suitability for other important applications, such as satellite instrument development, OSSE, and Planetary Boundary Layer (PBL) studies. Moreover, for PBL studies, RT models need to be adapted to capture the intricate radiation interactions within this crucial atmospheric layer. Developing RT models that can represent the PBL's unique characteristics, such as surface interactions, will contribute significantly to understanding and predicting weather phenomena, air quality, and climate dynamics. This abstract provides a comprehensive overview of the current status of RT models and highlights their limitations concerning satellite instrument development, OSSE, and PBL studies. Addressing these shortcomings requires concerted efforts to enhance RT models' capabilities and expand their applications beyond data assimilation. By investing in research and development to improve these

Isaac Moradi↗