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At least 1,621 records · Page 90

Testing and validating SMDS algorithms implemented in the cloud

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) provided technical assistance to NorthWrite Inc. under the Small Business Vouchers (SBV) Pilot. NorthWrite delivered services to owners of small commercial buildings, using a cloud-based service to monitor, control, and optimize building operations, saving energy and reducing operating costs for the owners while ensuring that occupant comfort needs were consistently met. NorthWrite had a longstanding desire to add a new suite of diagnostic capabilities to their service offering and had been trying, without success, to incorporate several diagnostic algorithms published by PNNL. These algorithms arise from research previously supported by BTO. Through the SBV awarded to NorthWrite, PNNL made available technical knowledge regarding the derivation and application of the following sets of algorithms for use in the NorthWrite Cloud-based service delivery system: • algorithms for monitoring rooftop packaged air conditioners and heat pumps (often referred to as rooftop units or RTUs) and diagnosing faults in these units, • advanced algorithms for automated fault detection and diagnosis of other equipment found in small buildings, and • algorithms for identifying, prioritizing, and assessing the economic effectiveness of implementing energy saving measures in small commercial buildings based on sensed data. The PNNL researchers involved were the original developers of these algorithms, had a unique understanding of the derivation of the algorithms, and had the source data used for this derivation. Further, the PNNL researchers had extensive experience using these algorithms in the laboratory, unique experience applying these algorithms in real-world small commercial buildings and could solve a number of key problems that NorthWrite and other users faced in using these algorithms at scale. In addition, PNNL had recently installed a pair of RTUs in a laboratory setting that were instrumented and connected with data acquisition systems that provided a unique test rig for validating the algorithms before NorthWrite began to deploy their new services in the field.

32 ENERGY CONSERVATION, CONSUMPTION, AND UTILIZATI↗

Intelligent Experiments Through Real-time AI: Fast Data Processing and Autonomous Detector Control for sPHENIX and Future EIC Detectors (Final Report)

The overall vision of this project was to integrate real-time artificial intelligence (AI) directly into the data acquisition and detector-control systems of nuclear physics experiments, including both fast online event selection and an autonomous detector-control feedback loop. The work carried out under the award focused on the fast online event-selection half of that vision: the efficient recording of low-momentum heavy-flavor (HF) hadron decays in proton-proton collisions at the sPHENIX experiment at the Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider (RHIC)—an observable that requires fast tracking and topological trigger selection not previously demonstrated at RHIC, and that is essential for QCD studies at future facilities such as the Electron-Ion Collider (EIC). The autonomous detector-control (GPU-based feedback) component named in the project title remained a design concept and was not implemented under this award. The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) group led the offline simulation and data processing needed to train the machine-learning (ML) models, the translation of trained models to Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) firmware using the hls4ml framework, and the physics validation of heavy-flavor reconstruction. Over the award period, the team developed and hardware-tested the principal components of an AI-based heavy-flavor trigger on simulated and recorded sPHENIX tracker data: a software Bipartite Graph Attention Network (BiGAT) trigger model reaching > 95% signal efficiency at 99% background rejection; an FPGA-native hit clusterizer matching the offline clustering; smaller networks synthesized to FPGA within the required sub-10 µs latency; and an assembled decoder–clusterizer–inference firmware chain exercised on the FELIX readout board. A complete, fully integrated hardware demonstrator was not finished within the award period. This report documents the project goals, the MIT group’s contributions, the technical accomplishments, and the outlook toward applications at the future EIC ePIC detector.

73 NUCLEAR PHYSICS AND RADIATION PHYSICS↗

A Tensor Network-Based Quantum Algorithm for the Nonlinear 1D Burgers' Equation

In this work, we implement a tensor network-based quantum algorithm to solve unsteady, nonlinear partial differential equations (PDEs). The challenge lies in how to effectively represent, encode, process, and evolve the nonlinear system of PDEs on quantum computers. We will discuss the new techniques using the compressible 1-dimensional (1D) Burgers' equation as an example, because it represents the fundamental nonlinear feature and yet removes certain complexity in physics, allowing us to focus on the design of quantum algorithms. Previous attempts to solve nonlinear PDEs in quantum computation have often involved storing multiple copies of solutions or employing linearizations. Neither is practical due to exponential scaling with evolution time or insufficient solution accuracy. Our framework is based on matrix product states (MPSs) and matrix product operators (MPOs). For example, the velocity field is represented by MPS, whereas the linear and nonlinear spatial differential terms of the velocity field are processed by MPOs. Our primary focus herein is to verify and validate the various tensor network components of the algorithm using solutions obtained by the classical algorithms on high performance computing (HPC) architectures. We use a classical time marching method to demonstrate the functionality of the tensor network operations to model the PDE and their robustness with the time evolution of the system. Our classical simulation results demonstrate the utility of tensor network-based operations in modeling nonlinear PDEs and highlight the necessity as well as potential advantages of using quantum simulations for these techniques.

Gopalakrishnan Meena, Murali [ORNL] (ORCID:0000000↗

Baryon fraction from the BAO amplitude: a consistent approach to parameterizing perturbation growth

Galaxy clustering constrains the baryon fraction Omega_b/Omega_m through the amplitude of baryon acoustic oscillations and the suppression of perturbations entering the horizon before recombination. This produces a different pre-recombination distribution of baryons and dark matter. After recombination, the gravitational potential responds to both components in proportion to their mass, allowing robust measurement of the baryon fraction. This is independent of new-physics scenarios altering the recombination background (e.g. Early Dark Energy). The accuracy of such measurements does, however, depend on how baryons and CDM are modeled in the power spectrum. Previous template-based splitting relied on approximate transfer functions that neglected part of information. We present a new method that embeds an extra parameter controlling the balance between baryons and dark matter in the growth terms of the perturbation equations in the CAMB Boltzmann solver. This approach captures the baryonic suppression of CDM prior to recombination, avoids inconsistencies, and yields a clean parametrization of the baryon fraction in the linear power spectrum, separating out the simple physics of growth due to the combined matter potential. We implement this framework in an analysis pipeline using Effective Field Theory of Large-Scale Structure with HOD-informed priors and validate it against noiseless LCDM and EDE cosmologies with DESI-like errors. The new scheme achieves comparable precision to previous splitting while reducing systematic biases, providing a more robust way to baryon-fraction measurements. In combination with BBN constraints on the baryon density and Alcock-Paczynski estimates of the matter density, these results strengthen the use of baryon fraction measurements to derive a Hubble constant from energy densities, with future DESI and Euclid data expected to deliver competitive constraints.

Crespi, Andrea [U. Waterloo (main); Waterloo U., I↗

A generalized vortex lattice method for subsonic and supersonic flow applications

If the discrete vortex lattice is considered as an approximation to the surface-distributed vorticity, then the concept of the generalized principal part of an integral yields a residual term to the vorticity-induced velocity field. The proper incorporation of this term to the velocity field generated by the discrete vortex lines renders the present vortex lattice method valid for supersonic flow. Special techniques for simulating nonzero thickness lifting surfaces and fusiform bodies with vortex lattice elements are included. Thickness effects of wing-like components are simulated by a double (biplanar) vortex lattice layer, and fusiform bodies are represented by a vortex grid arranged on a series of concentrical cylindrical surfaces. The analysis of sideslip effects by the subject method is described. Numerical considerations peculiar to the application of these techniques are also discussed. The method has been implemented in a digital computer code. A users manual is included along with a complete FORTRAN compilation, an executed case, and conversion programs for transforming input for the NASA wave drag program.

Miranda, L. R.↗

An experimental and analytical investigation of the aerodynamics of a hypersonic vehicle at free stream Mach 6

The goal of this research is the assessment of the validity of existing three dimensional numerical programs in the prediction of the flow fields about general three dimensional hypersonic bodies. A detailed experimental research program was performed in which surface and flow field pressures were mapped. The results of the experimental work were compared with existing inviscid programs. Improvements were made on the existing numerical methods to include angle of attack. A summary of this work is presented.

Zakkay, V.↗

Gravitational radiation quadrupole formula is valid for gravitationally interacting systems

An argument is presented for the validity of the quadrupole formula for gravitational radiation energy loss in the far field of nearly Newtonian (e.g., binary stellar) systems. This argument differs from earlier ones in that it determines beforehand the formal accuracy of approximation required to describe gravitationally self-interacting systems, uses the corresponding approximate equation of motion explicitly, and evaluates the appropriate asymptotic quantities by matching along the correct space-time light cones.

Walker, M.↗

Retrieval of thermodynamic variables with deep convective clouds Experiments in three dimensions

A three-dimensional numerical cloud model has been used to test a method for retrieving temperature and pressure deviation fields from detailed wind and water fields in deep convective clouds. A comparison of the retrieved fields with the output from the numerical model was used to test the validity of the theoretical treatment and accuracy of the programming. The local time derivatives of each of the velocity components are known to be potential problem sources in using Doppler radar data, and a test was done with this derivative estimated over a 4 min time span rather than 30 s, resulting in excellent agreement with the original solution for this data set. When the local derivative was eliminated, the solution was judged useful for general temperature patterns. Errors due to the inability to measure cloudwater mixing ratio and inaccuracies in rainwater mixing ratio were found to be significant, but not so severe as in the turbulence and steady-state sensitivity tests.

Hane, C. E.↗

On long-wavelength magnetic anomalies over Indian region

A data set composed of vector magnetic measurements obtained by MAGSAT and very accurate altitude determinations made using Sun sensors and star cameras was used to obtain data for very quiet days over the Indian region at 10 S to 40 N and 60 E to 110 E in an effort to determine the validity of quantitative estimates made from aeromagnetic data obtained by removing the core field. To further account for the external effects, the ring current contributions estimated using both X and Z variations were subtracted from the observed values. Before this, the core contribution was eliminated through a spherical harmonic expansion with terms up to N=13. Analysis of the residual measurements using Fast Fourier techniques indicates that the anomalies contain substantial power for wavelengths of about 1500 kms. Because the ring current effect has a spatial structure of this dimension over India, efforts are being made to exactly eliminate these two interfering effects from the data.

Srinivasan, S.↗

NASA new technology identification and evaluation

Before disclosure in NASA Tech Briefs, reports of new technology are transmitted to the cognizant NASA Field Center Technology Utilization Office (TUO) where they are evaluated for novelty, technical validity and significance, and nonaerospace utility. If uncertainty exists regarding these criteria, the documentation may be forwarded to SRI International for evaluation before recommending publication. From November 1980 to November 1983, some 3,103 technologies were evaluated by SRI. Activities performed and progress made are summarized.

Lizak, R. M.↗

Space plasma turbulent dissipation - Reality or myth?

A prevalent approach to understanding magnetospheric dynamics is to combine a hydromagnetic description of the large scale magnetic structure and convection flows with a locally determined anomalous dissipation which develops in boundary layers. Three problems (nose and tail reconnection, auroral field-aligned currents, and diffuse auroral precipitation) are critically examined to test the validity of this theoretical philosophy. Although the expected plasma wave turbulence is observed for each case, the concept of local anomalous dissipation fails to provide an adequate or complete description of the phenomenae.

Coroniti, F. V.↗

Reduction of the radar cross section of arbitrarily shaped cavity structures

The problem of the reduction of the radar cross section (RCS) of open-ended cavities was studied. The issues investigated were reduction through lossy coating materials on the inner cavity wall and reduction through shaping of the cavity. A method was presented to calculate the RCS of any arbitrarily shaped structure in order to study the shaping problem. The limitations of this method were also addressed. The modal attenuation was studied in a multilayered coated waveguide. It was shown that by employing two layers of coating, it was possible to achieve an increase in both the magnitude of attenuation and the frequency band of effectiveness. The numerical method used in finding the roots of the characteristic equation breaks down when the coating thickness is very lossy and large in terms of wavelength. A new method of computing the RCS of an arbitrary cavity was applied to study the effects of longitudinal bending on RCS reduction. The ray and modal descriptions for the fields in a parallel plate waveguide were compared. To extend the range of validity of the Shooting and Bouncing Ray (SBR) method, the simple ray picture must be modified to account for the beam blurring.

Chou, R.↗

Mass loss from cool stars

Optical and UV spectroscopic diagnostics which provide constraints on theoretical models of mass-loss and mass motions in cool-star atmospheres are discussed. The use of X-ray and UV data for exploring the relationship between mass loss and stellar coronae, studying the characteristics of cool stellar winds, and modeling the mass-loss process in the cool half of the color-magnitude diagram is described. Solar observations which can be validly applied in generalized models of the complex interactions between a stellar magnetic field and plasma in a high gravity star are examined. Computational methods are defined for parameterizing mass-loss rates and deriving mass-loss rates of single evolved stars and binary systems. The effects of stellar mass loss on globular clusters are investigated.

Dupree, A. K.↗

Hybrid deployable support truss designs for LDR

Concepts for a 20-meter diameter Large Deployable Reflector (LDR) deployable truss backup structure, and analytical predictions of its structural characteristics are discussed. The concept shown is referred to as the SIXPAC; It is a combination of the PACTRUSS concept and a single-fold beam, which would make up the desired backup structure. One advantage of retaining the PACTRUSS concept is its packaging density and its capability for synchronous deployment. Various 2-meter hexagonal panel arrangements are possible for this Hybrid PACTRUSS structure depending on the panel-to-structure attachment strategies used. Static analyses of the SIXPAC using various assumptions for truss designs and panel masses of 10 kg sq meters were performed to predict the tip displacement of the structure when supported at the center. The tip displacement ranged from 0.20 to 0.44 mm without the panel mass, and from 0.9 to 3.9 mm with the panel mass (in a 1-g field). The data indicate that the structure can be adequately ground tested to validate its required performance in space, assuming the required performance in space is approximately 100 microns. The static displacement at the tip of the structure when subjected to an angular acceleration of 0.001 rad/sec squared were estimated to range from 0.8 to 7.5 microns, depending on the type of truss elements.

Hedgepeth, J.↗

A design strategy for autonomous systems

Some solutions to crucial issues regarding the competent performance of an autonomously operating robot are identified; namely, that of handling multiple and variable data sources containing overlapping information and maintaining coherent operation while responding adequately to changes in the environment. Support for the ideas developed for the construction of such behavior are extracted from speculations in the study of cognitive psychology, an understanding of the behavior of controlled mechanisms, and the development of behavior-based robots in a few robot research laboratories. The validity of these ideas is supported by some simple simulation experiments in the field of mobile robot navigation and guidance.

Forster, Pete↗

Decorrelation distance of snow in the Colorado River Basin

The problem of estimating areal averages from point measurement has been extensively studied by mining engineers and hydrologists. Its application to satellite measurements has recently been introduced. The semivariaogram has been used in many geostatistical applications to estimate spatial structures of observed properties, such as mineral distributions. An examination is made of snow variations in Colorado from daily snow data collected in 11 SNOTEL stations. The associated semivariogram is estimated. The objective is to estimate the spatial structure of the snow field so that the point data can be used for comparison with, and validation for, satellite measurements.

Chang, A. T. C.↗

Healing of voids in the aluminum metallization of integrated circuit chips

The thermal stability of GaAs modulation-doped field effect transistors (MODFETs) is evaluated in order to identify failure mechanisms and validate the reliability of these devices. The transistors were exposed to thermal step-stress and characterized at ambient temperatures to indicate device reliability, especially that of the transistor ohmic contacts with and without molybdenum diffusion barriers. The devices without molybdenum exhibited important transconductance deterioration. MODFETs with molybdenum diffusion barriers were tolerant to temperatures above 300 C. This tolerance indicates that thermally activated failure mechanisms are slow at operational temperatures. Therefore, high-reliability MODFET-based circuits are possible.

Cuddihy, Edward F.↗

Dispersion relation for bianisotropic materials and its symmetry properties

The dispersion relation for an arbitrary general bianisotropic medium is derived in Cartesian coordinates, in a form well suited to imposing the boundary conditions when dealing with layered media with planar and parallel interfaces. Special cases of practical interest are also considered. Eleven fundamental coefficient families are identified by considering in detail all the symmetries present in the dispersion relation. An ad hoc expression of the determinant of the sum of two 3 x 3 matrices permits the use of a simple procedure to obtain the coefficients of the dispersion equation. The discussed symmetry properties have general validity, and this technique to evaluate the coefficients may be useful in other fields of application where dispersion relations are of importance.

Graglia, Roberto D.↗