SOUTH CAROLINA RESEARCH FOUNDATION
Grant: $430,000 - National Science Foundation - Aug. 10, 2009
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Award Description: CAREER: Cooperative Human-Computer Model Updating Cognitive Systems (MUCogS) The research objective of this early career development (CAREER) project is to develop a framework for cooperative human-computer Model Updating Cognitive Systems (MUCogS). Commonly used numerical modeling techniques, such as finite or boundary elements, provide accurate representations of simple structures but often fail to represent complex structural systems. Model updating techniques are used to enhance these numerical models based on experimental data. Current model updating techniques obtain a single model that best matches the existing structure by minimizing the error between experimental measurements and data produced by the numerical model. The analyst is limited to the selection of an initial model, adjusting few algorithm parameters or knobs and has little control on the process performed by the algorithm itself. This research changes this paradigm by designing advances algorithms to detect several plausible solutions to the model updating problem. A trained engineer can use his/her engineering judgment to select one or several appropriated models for subsequent analysis. Through this framework MUCogS formally include the analyst on the model updating technique creating a cooperative human-computer system. MUCogS can be further enhanced by including software agents to aid the analyst in the decision making process. This research has direct application in any field of structural engineering that incorporates numerical modeling of existing structures (e.g., earthquake engineering, wind engineering and structural health monitoring). The successful completion of this research will significantly enhance an engineers ability to validate innovative designs, evaluate the performance and detect damage of existing structures. This advancement directly impacts state, federal and private budgets dedicated to infrastructure maintenance and replacement. The educational component of this research includes the development of engineering judgment among undergraduate students by nurturing critical thinking through the implementation of inquiry-based teaching in structural engineering classes. In addition, undergraduate research assistants will be working on the research activities during the duration of the project.
Project Description: As defined in the Award Description field.
Jobs Summary: Two undergraduate research assistants have been hired on this project but will not start working until the next quarter. They are aiding graduate students in the design and implementation of numerical algorithms for model updating. (Total jobs reported: 0)
Project Status: Not Started
This award's data was last updated on Aug. 10, 2009. Help expand these official descriptions using the wiki below.
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