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STRATEGIC MULTISCALE
SCIENCE – ENGINEERING -
SOCIETY FRAMEWORK
Alessandro Formica
EuMaT Consultant
January 2019
2
Table of Contents
1. INTEGRATED STRATEGIC MULTISCALE SCIENCE - ENGINEERING - SOCIETY
FRAMEWORK CONCEPTS, PRINCIPLES AND ARCHITECTURE………………………… PAG. 4
1.1 Framework Conceptsm Principles and Goals……………………………………………………… pag. 4
1.2 Framework Architecture and Qualification……………………..……………………………….. pag. 14
1.3 Strategic Multiscale Framework Selected Innovative Features…………………………………... pag. 21
1.4 New R&D and Cyberinfrastructure Trends: The US DoE View……..……………………………. pag. 35
1.5 Relationshps with other Integrated Multiscale Frameworks: The ICME Case………………….. pag. 40
1.6 Relationships with EMMC and TMS Views……………………………………………………. pag. 44
1.7 Large Scale EU, UK and US Multiscale Science – Engineering Integration Programs………… pag. 50
Key Goal
“Multiscale Science Based Design” of Complex Systems and
related R&D and Engineering Design Processes
The Framework, introduces a new “Strategic Multiscale” Concept and Application
Environment which has been conceived to deal with new highly Demanding and
Complex Industrial, Civil, Infrastructural, Ecological and Socio-Economic
Scenarios. The New “Strategic Multiscale” Concept and the related Application
Strategies allow Researchers, Engineers and Managers to “Design” in a more
comprehensive and effective way, with respect today approaches, the Global
Architecture, Structure and Organization of ever more Complex Innovative
Industrial and Societal R&D and Engineering Projects & Programs and the
related Science – Engineering Cyber and Physical Infrastructures.
The Strategic Multiscale Framework has been conceived to deal with challenges created by a new
generation of increasingly Complex, Interdisciplinary and Transdisciplinary R&D and Engineering
Projects (what is defined, in the International scenario: “The Convergence World”) in a wide
range of Industrial, Environmental and Societal fields:
A) Integrating several scientific, technological and engineering entities, areas and disciplines:
a.1) Scientific Domains: Physics, Chemictry, Biology, Biochemistry,..,..
a.2) Science - Engineering – Society (R&D and Engineering Development Phases and Scales: From
Atoms to Systems and Systems of Systems): Science (Basic and Applied Research) - Technology -
Engineering - Manufacturing - Societal Systems Dynamics
a.3) Organizations, Strategies, Policies and Objectives
a.4) Methodological Sectors: Computation, Experimentation, Imaging (Biomedicine), Testing and
Sensing
B) Designing Complex Unified R&D and Engineering Projects and Strategies to effectively manage
the ever larger amount of data, information and knowledge, resources and entities involved in the New
Generation of Projects.
C) Creating the right integrated environment (Multiscale Science – Engineering – Society Computing,
Information and Communication Cyber Framework) to implement complex strategies and a continuous
multidirectional transfer of knowledge, experiences, strategies results, new project ideas and objectives
among Academia, Industry, Public and Societal Entities
D) Designing new Education, Information and Communication “Languages” and Environments as a
fundamental basic condition to shape the needed new “ Interdisciplinary and Transdisciplinary Culture” for
the “Convergence Scenario”
Relationships between Challenges and Strategic Multiscale Framework features and issues:
A+B) Integrating and Designing Complex Unified Strategic Multiscale R&D and Engineering
Tasks and Strategies
Multiscale Data, Information and Knowledge Analysis and Management System
Integrated Multiscale Science-Engineering Analysis and Design Methods and Environments
Multiscale Science Engineering Information Space
The Information Driven Concept and Analysis Scheme
E) Designing New Strategic Multiscale Science – Based Democratic Society Environments and
Governmental Strategies
An Evolving Scenario
The definition of the new “Integrated Computational Materials Engineering (ICME)” and the
“Integrated Compuitational Materials Science Engineering (ICMSE)” Frameworks and the
launch of the US Presidential Materials Genome Initiative (MGI) and several European
Multiscale Programs put the bases for a wide Industrial Application of Multiscale Science –
Engineering Integration Strategies and Frameworks to Innovation and Society Developments.
This conceptual scenario sets the bases for a “Strategic” approach to Multiscale. The writer,
synthesizing multiyear interactions and cooperations with some of the most important
industrial and research Italian, European and International Entities, and taking advantage of
his participation in the European Technology Platform for Advanced Engineering Materials
and Technologies (EuMaT) Platform has developed a new Integrated Strategic Multiscale
Framework which is characterized by several innovations compared to current programs and
projects incorporating, at the same time, their most significant elements and achievements.
Along these “Development Lines” , the “Strategic Multiscale Science – Engineering – Society
Framework” introduces new ideas, methods and concepts to make a step forward:
A) New Reference Concept: Strategic Multiscale Modeling and Simulation as Knowledge
Integrators and Multipliers and Unifying Paradigm for Scientific and Engineering
Methodologies (Computational, Experimental, Imaging and Sensing) and Knowledge
Domains. This New Concept extends the “Model” Concept to the Experimental,
Characterization, Testing and Sensing Worlds overcoming traditional Methodological
subdivisions and allowing for new Computational, Experimental, Characterization, Testing
and Sensing integrated strategies. This New Concept allows us to go beyond the classical
“Virtual Prototyping” Concept and Strategy
B) New Reference Principle: “Strategic Multiscale” (evolution of the classical
“Multiscale” Concept) which “structurally” incorporate the New Reference Concept.
“Strategic Multiscale” is a key element to establish a bridge between Science,
Engineering and Society to improve in a significant way R&D and Engineering
Organization and Strategies.
C) New Strategic Multiscale Multidisciplinary Cyber Science – Engineering – Society
Infrastructure for Innovation: The “Strategic Multiscale Framework” defines a
“Comprehensive Theoretical and Methodological Environment” to design and implement a
New Generation of Strategic Multiscale R&D and Engineering Strategies. This new
Scenario puts Multiscale Computational Frameworks and High Performance Computing at the
center of the R&D and Engineering/Manufacturing World even more than classical “Virtual”
concepts and approaches can do. Strategic Multiscale Modeling and Simulation become
“Pivotal” and “Integration” Elements for R&D and Engineering/Manufacturing Strategies
overcoming classical divisions between the Computational and the Experimental,
Characterization, Testing and Sensing Areas.
This new Strategic Multiscale Framework allows scientits, politicians, designers and
managers to
develop a “Unified Vision” of the several aspects and processes which characterize
the design and the operational management of modern Technological, Industrial,
Infrastructrural and Socio-Economic Systems and Environments.
In mid of nineties several researchers in the Chemical Engineering field (Sapre and Katzer, Lerou, Ka, Ng, and
Villermaux) and the author of this document (Alessandro Formica) inside the HPC field, highlighted the need of
a comprehensive multiscale approach as a key strategy to establish a new “Unifying Paradigm” to enable a
better correlation between scientific and engineering advances and knowledge domains. Later on, Prof.
Charpentier, past European Federation of Chemical Engineering President, illustrated similar concepts.
Considerations highlighted by Prof. Charpentier can be applied to a wide range of Engineering and
Manufacturing fields outside the Chemical Engineering context.
Considerations highlighted by Prof. Charpentier can be applied to a wide range of R&D and Engineering and
Manufacturing fields outside the Chemical Engineering context
In 2013 the awarding of the Nobel Prize in Chemistry to three scientists for the development of Multiscale
Models for Complex Chemical Systems has confirmed the relevance of Multiscale for Science and helped to
create the optimal intellectual and scientific context to introduce high level Projects and Initiatives in the
“Multiscale Science – Engineering Integration“ field: “The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences has awarded
the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for 2013 to Martin Karplus of Université de Strasbourg, France and Harvard
University, Cambridge, MA, USA; Michael Levitt of Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA;
and Arieh Warshel of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA "for the development of
multiscale models for complex chemical systems”
The 2016 Nobel Prize to “Molecular Machines” establishes a new important scientific basis (after the
development of Nanotechnology) for a new Technological, Engineering and Manufacturing trend referred to
as “From Atoms to Products or “From Atoms To Applications”. The term “Multiscale Science – Engineering
- Society Integration” refers to the Frameworks and related Implementation Strategies needed to implement
this Vision and its Developments.
Partners: Université de Lyon – CNRS - INSA-Lyon - Univ Lyon 1 - ENS Lyon - Centrale Lyon -
CPE Lyon
The Labex iMUST aims at encouraging multi-disciplinary & multi-scale research, to tackle and solve
challenging problems in materials science and environmentally sustainable technologies. iMUST
brings together skills and expertise developed in the fields of Physics, Chemistry and Engineering to
address two fundamental topics: i) materials and processes and ii) clean technologies.
Catalysis and catalytic processes. Lyon is a world-wide renowned place for catalysis and catalytic
processes and owes its reputation to an exceptional scientific and industrial environment, with the
largest academic & industrial research centers concentration in France.
Functional materials. The partners have well recognized expertise in design of new optical materials
and nanomaterials mostly using bottom-up approaches, their characterization with high temporal and
spatial resolution, and their applications, including biomedical ones.
Multiscale fluids. iMUST gathers groups with world-wide reputation in turbulence, macro to nano
scale hydrodynamics and functional fluids, with both fundamental and engineering perspectives. It
includes the key area of micro and nano fluidics, nano size engineering and macro-scale behaviors.
Modeling. The participants have a renowned expertise in multi scale simulations: ab-initio methods
and molecular dynamics at atomic to molecular scales, phase field, lattice Boltzmann and level-set
methods for supra-molecular structure of complex materials and continuum dynamics and various
computational methods at the micro to macroscopic scales.
Instrumentation. The IMUST partners have developed new methods for multiscale investigation and
imaging of solids, fluids, nanomaterials, and individual nano object. They include high spatial and
temporal resolution optical spectroscopies, nano force measurement apparatus, X-ray or electron beam
tomographies, solid state NMR and dynamical polarization, new methods of analytical chemistry, and
nano object manipulation tools.
Collaborations :
Competitive clusters : AXELERA, LUTB, Plastipolis
Companies and Centers: IFPEN, CEA, Saint Gobain, Solvay, Rhodia groupe Solvay, SKF, Lafarge,
Bluestar Silicones, Total, BASF, Areva, Arkema …
3
“Integrated Strategic Multiscale Science – Engineering – Society Cyber and Physical Framework”
Cooperative Environment Integrating CIC (Computing, Information and Communication)Systems
with Science – Engineering Theoretical, Experimental, Characterization, Testing and Sensing
Resources to develop Integrated Strategies for Industrial and Societal Systems Innovation and
Design
Integrated Strategic Multiscale Science - Based Education, Information and Communication
Framework
A New Integrated Framework which, for the first time, applies, in a sistematic way, the Strategic
Multiscale concept and methods to a wide range of Education, Information and Communication
Fields to structurally change “Languages” and Application Schemes to “shape” a New
Generation of Scientists, Engineers, Citizens, Workers, Professionals, Managers and Politicians
The theoretical and methodological basis of the Strategic Multiscale Framework is constituted
by a set of new concepts, methods and strategies with respect to the present European and
US Programs and Initiatives:
The extension of the “Model” concept to the Experimentation, Testing and Sensing Fields, giving a
new meaning to the “Virtual Engineering and Manufacturing” concept and approach. In this
context, a new “Vision” of Multiscale Modeling & Simulation as “Knowledge Integrators and
Multipliers” and “Unifying Paradigm” for Scientific and Engineering (Experimental,
Characterization, Testing and Sensing) Methodologies , Techniques and Knowledge Domains has
been defined. Strategic Multiscale Modeling and Simulation integrate, inside a coherent
conceptual, methodological and application context the full spectrum of scientific and engineering
methodological and technological (analytical, computational, experimental, characterization,
testing and sensing) approaches and related knowledge environments.
The “Information Driven Analysis” concept and scheme which, together with the “Multiscale
Science – Engineering Information Space” concept is a key element to shape Methodologically
Integrated (Rational Integration of Computational, Experimental, Characterization, Testing, and
Sensing) R&D and Engineering/Manufacturing Analysis and Design Strategies, following the
Strategic Multiscale Modeling and Simulation as “Knowledge Integrators and Multipliers” concept
and application scheme.
New Strategic Multiscale Science - Engineering Data, Information and Knowledge Management
Systems based upon the Multiscale Maps and Multiscale Knowledge Domains concepts and
environments.
New Strategic Multiscale Environments to Model and Simulate the Technology Development,
Engineering/Manufacturing and Societal Application Processes: Virtual Strategic Multiscale
Innovative Technology and Systems Development Framework
New tools to “Design” the Architecture of the R&D and Engineering Processes
New Integrated Strategic Multiscale Science – Based Education, Information and Communication
“Languages” and Frameworks which structurally incorporate Multiscale (or to better say Strategic
Multiscale).
INTEGRATED EARTH AND SPACE (OR FROM SPACE TO EARTH) STRATEGIC MULTISCALE
SCIENCE - ENGINEERING CYBER & PHYSICAL FRAMEWORK
Architecture and Objectives
Strategic Multiscale Multidisciplinary Science – Engineering – Society Framework
Strategic Multiscale Multidisciplinary R&D, Design and Innovative Developments Framework
Multiscale Science-Engineering Knowledge Integrator and Multiplier Computing, Information
and Communication (CIC) Infrastructural Framework
Virtual Strategic Multiscale Innovative Technology and Systems Development Modeling and
Simulation Framework (or Virtual Strategic Multiscale Space – Time Machine)
Virtual Strategic Multiscale Science- Engineering - Society Knowledge Integrator and Multiplier
Centers
“Virtual Strategic Multiscale Science-Based Space Station (or Center)”: A New “From Space To
Earth” Resource for a Globalized World
Framework Architecture:
IMSE Framework
“Integrated Strategic Multiscale Science – Engineering – Society Cyber and Physical
Framework”
Strategic Multiscale Computer Aided R&D, Engineering and Manufacturing &
Processing (SMCARDE-MP) Framework to design new technological, engineering and
manufacturing solutions for Civil, Infrastructural, Agricultural and Ecological Systems
Integrated Strategic Multiscale Societal Systems Design and Development (ISMSDD)
Framework
Strategic Multiscale Societal Systems Architectural Framework
Strategic Multiscale Environmental Monitoring and Impact Analysis Framework
Strategic Multiscale Science – Based Systems Modeling and Simulation Framework
Strategic Multiscale Science Based Earth Observation/Monitoring and Dynamics Analysis
Strategic Multiscale Analysis and Design of Complex Civil, Infrastructural, Ecological and Socio-
Economic Systems
EMPA : An Integrated Science – Engineering Approach to Civil and Infrastructural Issues
MultiScale Materials Science for Energy and Environment: MIT and CNRS Center
Framework Architecture
A New Frontier: "Science – Technology - Engineering – Politics - Society - Integration“
Strategic Multiscale Science - Based Society: A New Perspective for Democracy, Politics and Society
A New Science and Knowledge Based Governance Culture and System
The National State, Globalization and The "Supranational State”
A New Frontier for Globalization: Space
All the Frameworks are interrelated and interoperable and they share a
common “Conceptual and Methodological Context” represented by the
“IMSE Framework”
Modelling and Design R&D Architecture, Product Engineering / Manufacturing Process and
Business Design Support Systems
The combined and iterative use of modelling, simulation, experimentation, testing, characterization and
sensing in a methodologically integrated multiscale strategy and related environments can increase the
range of validity of the models outside the testing validation range, improving the effectiveness of
validation techniques. This reflects the need to integrate and couple both experiments and simulation
into a common platform necessary for industry 4.0, assuring the interoperability between the tools.
Workflows, standards for data and models, as well as experiments.
1) A New Integrated Earth and Space (or From Space To Earth) Cyber –
Physical Infrastructural Environment For an Innovative and Ecological
Compliant Industrial and Socio-Economic Development
This Framework represents a new “Integrated Multiscale Science – Based Cyber &
Physical Environment” for Industrial and Societal Systems Research, Technology Development,
Design, Implementation, Monitoring and Control. The Framework is based upon the new central
concept of “Multiscale Multidisciplinary Modeling and Simulation as Knowledge Integrators and
Multipliers” and “Unifying Paradigm” for the full spectrum of Scientific and Engineering (analytical,
Experimental, Characterization, Testing, Sensing) Methodologies.
The New Framework can synergistically integrate all the available Mathematical, Modelling &
Simulation and Technological (Experimental, Characterization, Testing, Sensing, Computing,
Information and Communication) Resources inside a
Fig. 1 (from US Department of Energy) Multiscale Science Engineering Cyber Infrastructure linking a wide
spectrum of Facilities and Centers. Integrated Strategic Multiscale Science – Engineering Methods and
Strategies allow to manage all these Resources in a more effectively way than traditional approaches.
Key Elements:
A. A New Generation of Computational Centers referred to as “Strategic Multiscale
Computational Science-Engineering-Society Knowledge Integrator and Multiplier Centers”
These Centers would be based upon the new central concept of “Multiscale Multidisciplinary Modeling and
Simulation as Knowledge Integrators and Multipliers” and “Unifying Paradigm” for the full spectrum of
Scientific and Engineering Knowledge Domains and (analytical, Experimental, Characterization, Testing,
Sensing) Methodologies. A “multi – way” partnership among the new envisaged Computational Centers and
Experimental, Characterization, Testing and Sensing Centers, Systems and Facilities is a distinguishing feature
of this new vision. In this context, Computational Centers, following the “Knowledge Integrators and
Multipliers” view will become a key node and catalyst of multiple interaction patterns between the
Experimental, Characterization, Testing and Sensing Worlds. Significant technological advances allow to design
and implement remote control techniques for Experimental, Characterization, Testing and Sensing systems.
Accordingly, new Computational Centers can easily interact with extended Virtual Distributed Environments
which integrate a wide spectrum of equipments and facilities allowing for a network of multiple cooperations.
The Center will become a “Portal” to Strategic Multiscale Science - Engineering Knowledge Integrator and
Multiplier University – Research – Industry – Society Cooperative Environment
New previously illustrated concepts, methods and frameworks lead to a new set of Functionalities for the
Centres:
Integrated Environments for jointly (cooperating with Analytical, Experimental, Characterization, Testing
and Sensing, Teams) “Designing” Integrated Computational and Experimental, Characterization, Testing
and Sensing Frameworks and Strategies
Integrated Environments for the construction of Multiscale Multidisciplinary Science - Engineering –
Society “Knowledge Domains” which turn Data coming from a full spectrum of scientific and engineering
sources (data bases, computations, analytical formulations, experimentation, testing and Sensing) into
Multiscale Multidisciplinary Knowledge Domains
Integrated Environments for the Development and Validation of advanced Multiscale Computational Models
and Frameworks
This new kind of Center allows for a systematic transfer of scientific knowledge inside engineering models,
practices and strategies and they will foster a timely and effectively application of the most advanced scientific
achievements. The knowledge get by a combined use of an extended spectrum of scientific computational,
experimental, characterization, testing and sensing models and techniques, in the context of a Strategic
Multiscale analysis scheme, allows us to build an interlinked hierarchy of analytical and computational models
at several levels of abstraction and fidelity to be applied to different tasks according to a global strategy. The
Models Hierarchy can be regarded as a synthesis and integration of science and engineering.
The Centers offer scientists, researchers, public and private managers, politicians and citizens a “unified context”
to better understand the complex pattern of relationships and interdependencies between civil, agricultural and
infrastructural (transport, energy, industrial plants, communication,….) systems and health, safety,
environmental and climatological issues and challenges (sustainable development). The new Center synthesizes
widely scattered efforts and allows to forge more effective “unified strategies” to deal with tightly interrelated
problems of increasing complexities
Strategic Multiscale Science - Engineering -Society Knowledge Integrator and Multiplier means that:
the “Strategic Modeling and Multiscale Concepts, Methods and Strategies Framework”” can be used to
design the Architecture of Cyberinfrastructures: what kind of resources are interconnected with specific
functionalities and performance) for specific Research, Environmental, Societal, Engineering,
Manufacturing, Monitoring and Control, Projects, Tasks and Purposes.
The “Strategic Multiscale Modeling and Simulation as Knowledge Integrators and Multipliers and Unifying
Paradigm for Scientific and Engineering Methodologies and Knowledge Domains” concept and related
Methodologically Integrated Multiscale Science - Engineering Strategies shape Cyberinfrastructure
Operational Modes and Application Strategies. Specific Resources and Services can be activated, tailored
and integrated in an adaptive way for specific Tasks. This new kind of Cyber Infrastructures links together
the full spectrum of Computational, Experimental, Theoretical, Testing Centers and Networks of Earth and
Space based sensor systems according to Unified Strategic Multiscale Science - Engineering - Society
Strategies.
4) A New Innovative Technologies and Systems Development Analysis, Design, and Planning
Framework: “Virtual Multi Space and Time Scale R&D and Engineering Machine” (Chapter 3)
R&D, Engineering/Manufacturing and System Development Processes in any Industrial, Civil, Infrastructural
and Socio-Economic Area can be seen as a “Multiscale Process” [from materials to systems – from preliminary
design to manufacturing, testing and operational life and interactions with ecological systems; from basic
principles to new technologies and engineering/manufacturing solutions development and testing] and,
accordingly, they can be modeled and simulated by Strategic Multiscale Science-Engineering Computational
Frameworks (IMSE Framework) also thanks to continuous HPC impressive advances
Fig. 2 (from Georgia Institute of Technology) well describes the Multiscale and Integration Scenario for
Complex Systems: From Atoms to Assembly, Product , Industrial System and Ecosystems
Fig. 3 Chemical Plant Development from Molecules, to Devices, Units and the whole Plant
B) Analyzing what new Scientific, Technological and Engineering Advances could be needed to
achieve Industrial Innovation and Development Objectives (Inverse Evaluation Scheme for a
Hypothetic Future Scenario including effects on the environment, occupation and competitiveness
levels)
D) Continuously monitoring (direct connection with Sensing Systems) the status of programs during
their implementation and the dynamics of the built Systems in order to assess their effectiveness and
efficiency over time in a wide range of operational conditions. Data collected and analyzed by applying
Data Analytics, AI and Simulation Tools in an integrate way can be a valuable basis to identify
weaknesses in the applied scientific methodologies , technological, engineering and manufacturing
solutions in order to allow for the development of new more effective and efficient science –based
technologies, engineering, manufacturing and system solutions.
Strategic Multiscale as
“Knowledge and Technology Integrator and Multiplier”
A Key Innovative Feature of the Framework is its ability to address, inside an integrated
context, five basic issues:
a) Technology, Engineering and Society Innovation and Science-based Knowledge Acquisition and
Organization
b) Cities, Regions and any kind of Civil, Infrastructural and Environmental Systems Strategic
Multiscale Science-based Integrated Analysis, Planning, Design and Management
c) Multiscale Monitoring and Control Systems and Data – Models Integration
d) Application of Space Technologies and Systems to develop Integrated From Space to Earth
Monitoring and Analysis Strategies
e) Design of Strategic Multiscale Science – Based Education, Information and Communication
Environments for Citizens, Workers and Professional (any level and any typology)
f) Integrated Analysis, Design, Implementation Monitoring and Control of “Interacting and
Interdependent” Intelligent Civil, Infrastructural, Industrial, Socio-Economic, Agricultural and
Ecological Systems
Key Special Framework Components:
1) A special version of the “Virtual Multiscale Space-Time Machine” which can carry out the
following functions:
A Key “Enabling System and Resource” for a New Generation of Knowledge Integrator and
Multipliers Design and Decision Support Systems (DSS) for “Integrated” Smart Civil,
Infrastructural, Agricultural and Ecological Systems Design and Development.
A “Focal Point” and “Key Tool” for “Living Labs” and “Technological and Industrial Incubators”
A New Generation of “Integrated Cooperative Environments” for all the “Smart City Actors”
This Environment can be connected to (Multiscale) Sensing Networks in order to
Progressively Monitoring Smart Systems during their construction and (nominal and
off-nominal) operational Life. Strategic Multiscale Environments can integrate data
(applying wide spectrum of Data Analytics and AI techniques) inside Models to test
“Systems Behaviour” and devise and plan new technologies and solutions
– involve citizens, public and socio-economic bodies and industries in the “Smart (Civil,
Infrastructural, Agricultural and Ecological) Systems” Life, Innovation and Development
– Train professionals and technical people and contribute to diffuse inside the Political and
Administrative World a New Science – Based Culture
– devise and set up cooperations among Cities, Public (Local/regional, National and
Transnational) (Regional, National and Transnational) Entities
The “Virtual Strategic Multiscale Science – Engineering - Society Space Station is a “Strategic Multiscale
Knowledge Integrator and Multiplier” Hardware and Software Environment which carries out these
functions: : integration of data and information from Space, Aerial, Surface and Sub-Surface Sensing
Systems with Multiscale (Scientific and Engineering) Theoretical, Computational and Experimental
Facilities to design “Hierarchies of Multiscale/Multiresolution/Multiphysics Computational and Knowledge
Maps which represent a Synthesis of Scientific and Engineering Knowledge aimed to improve our
understanding to Earth Dynamics and design improved Earth (Urban, Land, Infrastructural) Systems and
related Operational Schemes and Strategies
The new Frameworks are based upon the new concept of “Multiscale Modeling and Simulation as
Knowledge Integrators and Multipliers and Unifying Paradigm for Scientific and Engineering
Methodologies and Knowledge Domains” . This new concept leads to a new Multiscale Vision and
Theoretical Context referred to as “Strategic Multiscale”. This new Vision of Multiscale becomes a
Key Constitutive Element of the “Language” adopted in the Frameworks. Multiscale Science -
Engineering Integration is a fundamental means to give a unified vision of any Research, Technology
Development and Engineering/Manufacturing, Environmental, Economic and Societal Phenomena
and Process and, accordingly, to shape New Analysis, Presentation, Discussion, Entertainment and
Teaching Schemes, Strategies and Environments (globally referred to as “Language”).
The “Integrated Strategic Multiscale Science – Based Education, Information, Communication and
Entertainment Framework”, to the knowledge of the author of this document represents the first Integrated
Multifunctional Framework which brings the “Multiscale Science – Engineering Integration” Principles and
Context inside the Education, Information and Communication “Languages” and Analysis and Presentation
Schemes in order to change their basic structure.
In this new context, the Strategic Multiscale Science – Engineering Integration as “Unifying Paradigm” for
Science and Engineering becomes not only the “Object” of Education, Information and Communication
Programs, as it happens today, but a “Structural Element” of a new generation of Education, Information,
Communication and Entertainment “Languages” and Application Frameworks. In such a way, the
“Language” and the related Implementation Framework directly reproduces and structurally incorporates
the new Multiscale Science – Engineering analysis, research, development, design and management
concepts, methods, schemes and strategies increasingly used by professionals to address any task in all
the Human, Social, Environmental, Technological, Industrial, and Economic fields.
The “Strategic Multiscale Science – Based Democratic Society Structures and Government Strategies
Framework” (Chapter 7) analyzes the impact that the new "Multiscale Multidisciplinary Science –
Engineering Integration Methodologies and Strategies" and related Multiscale Multidisciplinary
Mathematical Modelling advances can have on Future Democracy, Politics and Society Scenarios.
Today, the key challenge is to integrate the most significant advances in Science,
Mathematical Techniques and Modeling, Engineering Design Methodologies, Computing,
Information and Communication Technologies inside a "Coherent and Multidisciplinary
Multiscale Knowledge, Analysis and Design Framework" in order to allow Politics to
develop and apply "New Theories and Strategies" to more effectively and comprehensively
deal with democratic government challenges in a highly complex, multifaceted and
continuously evolving Socio-Economic reality.
The Ultimate Objective is to integrate inside a Unitary Vision "Science - Technology -
Engineering - Politics - Society".
Paragraph 7.2 highlights “Key Challenges” which justify “New Strategies” and related “Goals”
Paragraph 7.3 describes the role that Scientific Methodologies, Integration of Multiscale Science -
Engineering Strategies could have to give Politics a new generation of analytical and design tools to
more effectively and comprehensively deal with key Society problems.
Paragraph7.3.1 analyzes the impact that a systematic and organic application of the new Multiscale
Multidisciplinary Methodologies and the Multiscale Science – Based Society Framework can have on
a fundamental theme for the Democratic Government and Progress of the Society:
New Knowledge and Science - Based Democratic Governance Culture and System
Paragraphs 7.3.2 examines the problems linked to the relationships among the National States, the
Globalization Processes and the Supranational Entities.
Paragraph 7.3.3 describes a new Cyber Environment specifically conceived to deal with Globalization
processes: “Virtual Multiscale Science – Based Space Station”
1.Closing the Loop in Autonomous Discovery and Development: “Self-driving laboratories” that
autonomously design, perform, and interpret experiments are needed to discover new materials. Creating and
deploying autonomous laboratories that can perform this closed-feedback-loop discovery and development
process would be the culmination of all the other goals.
2.Artificial Intelligence for Materials: Autonomous research relies on reasoning, decision making, and
creativity. The particular scale and details of theoretical, computational, synthetic, and characterization evidence
in materials research require the establishment of this new branch of AI. National and international research
organizations can facilitate an integrated computer and materials science research effort to develop algorithms
that mimic, and then supersede, the intellect and intuition of expert materials scientists.
3.Modular Materials Robotics: To accommodate evolving materials demands and the ever-expanding breadth
of clean energy technologies, autonomous laboratories must remain nimble and motivate a modular approach to
the development of materials science automation. The elegant representation of techniques and materials as
modular building blocks fosters human-machine communication and simplifies the path to materials exploration
beyond the bounds of known materials.
4.Inverse Design: Materials innovation by an autonomous laboratory can be seeded and accelerated by
conceiving novel materials compositions or structures that can meet specific requirements. Inverse design
enables automated generation of candidate materials designed to meet the performance, cost, and compatibility
requirements of a given clean energy technology.
5.Bridging Length and Time Scales: Materials consist of atoms, connected by bonds and arranged at the
nano, micro, and macro scales—a variation in length scale akin to going from the width of a human hair to the
diameter of Earth. Light absorption occurs in femtoseconds, chemical bonds are broken and formed in
picoseconds, and syntheses and characterizations require microsecond- to hour-long experiments. Materials
that are stable for decades are needed, an equally daunting breadth of scale. Although there are appropriate
scientific theories for each of these length and time scales, systematic methods of connecting results and ideas
across these scales would enable transformative discoveries.
6. Data Infrastructure and Interchange: Innovation relies on communication and appropriate representation of
both data and the knowledge obtained from data. This poses a substantial challenge to the international
research community to join forces in establishing and populating a materials data infrastructure. The resulting
product, which would embody an understanding of materials beyond that attainable by an individual scientist or
even a team of scientists, would enable and enhance autonomous laboratories.
Four priority research directions (PRDs) in instrumentation development were identified in the
workshop.
The following text is reproduced from the previously quoted document Paragraphs 2.1PRD1 –
2.2PRD 2 – 2.3 PRD 3 – 2.4 PRD 4
2.1PRD 1: Establish new frontiers in time, space, and energy resolution for characterization
and control
How can instrumentation break through current resolution barriers to characterize and control
chemical and material systems at the finest time, length, and energy scales?
Atomic-scale and near-atomic-scale phenomena and structure are often critical in determining the
properties of materials and the outcomes of chemical processes. Likewise, the critical steps in the
evolution of structures and chemistries can take place over extraordinarily short timescales — but
also need to be understood as they subsequently evolve over longer timescales. Many current
experimental tools lack sufficient resolution and sensitivity to reveal structure and chemical events at
short length and timescales, resulting in bulk or ensemble-averaged measurements. High temporal
and energy resolution, as well as spatial resolution down to single-molecule and single-atom scales,
coupled with high sensitivity, are necessary to fully understand chemical and physical processes,
including chemical reactions, structural transformations, materials synthesis, and energy flow. It is
necessary to invent new instruments and methods that go beyond the current limitations of state-of-
the-art instrumentation. These limitations include: energy, spatial, and temporal resolutions; probe
sensitivity and degree of discrimination; probes that are invasive, disruptive, and destructive probes;
and rare-event detection. The development of transformational experimental tools and novel
approaches that overcome natural limits associated with the diffraction barrier, energy-time
uncertainty, and other resolution barriers are important cases.
2.2 PRD 2: Create innovative experimental methods for investigating “real-world” systems
What revolutionary new approaches are needed to provide insights into materials synthesis and
complex chemical transformations of functioning systems in “real-world” environments that go beyond
the use of model systems in idealized environments?
Much of what we know about the fundamental chemical and material phenomena that underlie current
energy technologies derives from the use of model systems and ex situ observations. While this has
been a successful approach for understanding many processes, the complexity of the functional
environments of many energy systems gives rise to structures and processes that are both complex
and dynamic, and therefore cannot be evaluated by current approaches. Examples of such energy
processes include: materials synthesis, materials degradation, chemical transformations,
electrochemical conversion, as well as ion and electron transport across functional interfaces.
Researchers have long recognized the need for characterization and control of these processes in
their intended operating conditions, but the challenges are significant. Recreating real-world
conditions in the confines of a laboratory setting is a formidable challenge, especially characteristics
that include high temperatures and pressures, corrosive or contaminating fluids and gases, and highly
heterogeneous sample environments. A new generation of scientific instrumentation is required to
investigate operating energy systems in a non-destructive manner without either disturbing the
process of interest or compromising the nominal resolution of the technique.
This priority research direction is intended to accelerate progress toward in situ and operando
measurements over a broad range of chemical and material processes of relevance to energy
sciences. The developments of in situ and operando capabilities are needed across the disciplines of
Alessandro Formica, January 2019 All rights reserved
37
materials, chemistry, and biology (specific examples can be found in Section III of this report).
Progress is needed in two broad areas: the development of novel reactors, in situ devices and
chambers, and windowless cells that reliably reproduce functional conditions under which energy
processes can be investigated; and the development of novel methods or instruments that operate at
conditions as close as possible to those of the functioning material or process.
2.3 PRD 3: Simultaneously interrogate form and function, bridging time, length, and energy
scales
How can methods be integrated to simultaneously interrogate a material or chemical system to
understand, control, and correlate collective behavior and properties across the relevant time, length,
and energy scales?
The current state of the art for characterizing heterogeneous materials includes a wealth of techniques
— including physical and spectroscopic measurements — that have significant individual strengths. It
is now possible to obtain atomic-resolution images with chemical information. Scattering techniques
yield detailed structural information from ensembles of molecules and systems with translational
symmetry.33 Spectroscopic approaches, such as those built on advances in phase-stabilized ultrafast
lasers, provide local electronic structure and chemical dynamics information with elemental specificity
and femtosecond resolution. Overall, we have made great strides to characterize the resting state of
materials in terms of their electronic and atomic structure with high spatial resolution. Ultrafast and
time-resolved measurements are often performed on single components extracted from
heterogeneous functional materials.
To understand and control heterogeneity, characterization methods are needed that are responsive to
multiple physical properties at different length and time scales. The ideal case is complete probing of
the spatial distribution of relevant chemical speciation, physical properties, and excitation dynamics
on all relevant length and time scales with multiple modalities. In some cases, measurements of
transient states could provide important insight into materials functionality.
There are several broad categories of the limitations of current techniques for characterizing the full
interrelationships of the properties, structures, and dynamics of complex heterogeneous systems. For
some cases, it is still not possible to resolve the natural spatial and time scales of key processes, but
increased resolution, for the most part, is no longer what prevents techniques from addressing multi-
scale heterogeneity. In order to characterize the impact of heterogeneity on physical processes, it is
not enough to simply measure heterogeneous spatial or temporal distributions of individual properties
— we must be able to correlate different properties that affect each other. For example, state-of the-
art characterization methods for materials growth coupled with local probes of magnetic and electric
properties would represent a major advance in materials design. Overcoming current limitations will
require the development of in situ non-invasive instrumentation that integrates atomic resolution
imaging techniques, electrochemical techniques, beyond-diffraction-limit microscopy, and
multidimensional and surface-sensitive spectroscopies to capture the heterogeneity of rates,
structural makeup, and chemical environments.37 Correlation of such observations becomes
substantially more difficult when the system is dynamic or transient. As a result, one frontier in
instrumentation is simultaneity — implementing multiple types of probes at the same time on the same
sample.
2.4 PRD 4: Drive a new paradigm for instrumentation design through integration of experiment,
theory, and computation
Integration of experimentation with computational modeling and theory at the outset of the design of
an experiment or the development of a new instrument will provide entirely new instrumentation
platforms that optimize measurements to enable the extraction of salient physical insights not
previously attainable. This Priority Research Direction expresses the paradigm shift in scientific
investigation by the design and integration of all experimental components with theory and simulation.
To meet challenges associated with the co-design of instruments with theoretical input and data, new
computational methods, applied mathematics, and hardware are required that will maximize the
Six key strategic issues and trends are clearly highlighted inside the previously reproduced
texts:
a) The growing relevance of Multiscale Methodologies and Techniques
b) The extension of Multiscale Methodologies and Strategies from the classical
Computational Area to the Experimental one
c) The two-way Integration between the Multiscale Computational and Experimental
Worlds
d) A New Structure and Organization for Cyberinfrastructure which apply the issues
pointed out in the Items a), b) and c)
e) Data – Models – Experimental Techniques Integration: Multiscale Data – Driven R&D
Strategy
f) The growing role of Automation, Robotics and AI inside the R&D Processes and
Environments
Issues and trends described in the Items from a) to e) represent already key
components inside the Strategic Multiscale Framework even if they are inserted not
in the “Classical Multiscale” Context, but in a new conceptual, methodological and
application context characterized by the “Strategic” View of Multiscale.
We can hypothesize that issues and trends described in the Item f) can be inserted
inside the Strategic Multiscale Framework without calling for major modifications.
This Paragraph relates the Application and Development Themes, Topics and Trends and
the related Challenges for the “Materials Area”: identified by two authoritative sources TMS
and EMMC with the Strategic Multiscale Framework Vision:
resources. This includes a lack of communication among researchers in academia and government
laboratories with industry. Information exchange should be facilitated between these sectors to help
industry articulate the issues needing most help, and to be able to take advantage of the work
produced in academia and government laboratories. Along these lines, government laboratories
could re-emphasize existing relevant programs to ensure the resources are being fully leveraged by
the community. Champions in this effort must educate their peers about the immense potential of
data analytics and advanced computational methods in materials and manufacturing developments
Furthermore:
a) the Multiscale Science – Based Education, Information and Communication is a
“Strategic” resource to build a “Intellectual, Educational and Cultural” Cooperation Context
and Environment among Disciplines and Methodological Areas
2. Data-Driven Approaches: The IMSE Framework can integrate the whole spectrum of Data-
Driven (Data Analytics, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning) techniques
B) Excerpts from the “The EMMC Road Map 2018 for Materials Modelling
and Informatics”
Summary pag.2
The key stakeholders are considered to significantly create added value and tangible benefits from materials
modelling. For this to happen several critical challenges need addressing that are interlinked but can be treated
as self-standing topical subjects.
1) Open Innovation Platform for Integration of models and modelling for industrial impact
2) Facilitation of Translational Work Flow efforts to match identified needs with materials
modelling capabilities
3) Creation of Marketplaces and Data repositories as part of the Open Innovation Platform to
maximize materials modelling use for commercialising technologies fast
4) Develop a Materials Modelling Ontology to provide a common materials modelling language
that enable the relational integration of Translational Workflows
5) Ensuring appropriate Infrastructural Facilities and Interoperability of materials models
6) Attract, educate and train people for the use of materials modelling
The topical subjects form a logical sequence of complementing efforts. The Open Innovation Platform
enables integration of models, which implies connecting in- and outputs to eventually address the
industrial challenges. This requires facilitation i.e. making it easy for stakeholders to identify required
models for use by following a Translation Workflow. The easily accessible one-stop marketplaces are
then the virtual spaces that offer the models and accessories for use. A material’s modelling ontology
is required to make the identification and exchange possible through a common language expressing
the relational context. All this happens in a digital space that necessitates infrastructural hardware
but equally important inter-operational software accessories to make it possible. For this to happen
competent people are needed at all levels for today and in the future. Each of the topical subjects
comprehensively considers: the state of the art, the EMMC ambition, and the EMMC approach, for
how the implementation should take place for maximum success.
4. Stakeholders pag.12
The Materials Modelling Marketplace contains not only databases but also other intangible resources
such as education, expertise exchange, communication platform, etc., that are linked with the
databases, allowing therefore easy mapping of raw and interpreted data with corresponding
stakeholders and experts. It will facilitate Big-Data schemes to be employed and integrated into a
Business Decision Support Systems (BDSS) by manufacturers and translators.
are directly and comprehensively dealt with inside a “ Strategic Multiscale Integrated
Theoretical and Application Context” constituted by the following Cooperative Platform and
Framework:
EU Multiscale Cluster
A First Step Towards Integrated Multiscale Frameworks
EU Cluster of FP7 funded projects on multiscale modelling for nano-materials and systems by
design.
DEEPEN: From atom-to-Device Explicit simulation Environment for Photonics and Electronics
Nanostructures
MMP: Multiscale Modelling Platform: Smart design of nano-enabled products in green
technologies
MODENA: Modelling of morphology Development of micro- and Nano Structures
ICMEg: Integrated Computational Materials Engineering expert group and Consortium (Aachen
University coordinator)
Multiscale refers both to the spatial and temporal scales which characterize the whole
spectrum of manufacturing processes and the hierarchy of multiscale physical and
bio-chemical phenomena and processes which at the root of manufacturing processes
and that describe the dynamics of materials, components, sub-systems and systems
to be manufactured.
Networked and multi-scale manufacturing systems are designed to get more flexibility to
respond to dramatic changes in the world market and take full advantage of new
manufacturing technologies like Bio manufacturing, Adaptive Manufacturing. Micro and
Nanoscale Manufacturing. Multiscale Modeling and Simulation (and ever more Strategic
Multiscale) becomes a key Enabling Methodology for a successful implementation of this new
approach. New Integrated Multiscale Science – Engineering Cyber (Computing, Information
and Communication) Infrastructures are a fundamental Elements to implement Smart factory
and Smart Manufacturing Concepts and Strategies
Among all the new advances in science and technology in the past decade, few have reached the levels of
prominence or skepticism quite like additive manufacturing. Some see it as revolutionary. To others, it is
overhyped. Yet, as new techniques and approaches become accessible and desired Economies of scale
are realized, additive manufacturing does not appear to be going away any time soon. Its role is becoming
more defined, and manufacturers, industry leaders, and even individual “makers” are exploring new and
innovative uses for it.
While the future does appear bright for additive manufacturing, there are still significant hurdles that must
be overcome. Foremost among these is accessing a wider range of materials. Some are too brittle for high
fidelity parts at scale, some are too toxic for widespread consumption, and some are too expensive.
At the core of this limited range of materials being used in additive manufacturing is a lack of understanding
of the material science that gives these materials their properties. Making multiple physical prototypes
extends the design cycle, can increase costs, and requires extra testing. As a result, many engineers and
designers tend to limit themselves to a core group of materials that they understand well, confining their
creativity and stifling the potential of their finished product.
However, there is a solution on the horizon that can push additive past its current “tipping point.” Imagine a
design process where bespoke materials are tailored for their specific use. How does this become
possible? It comes from the advent of a new capability in materials and product design: multiscale
modeling. The accuracy of today’s modeling and simulation software has evolved to the point that
an integrated solution can enable designers to model a product from the atomic scale up to full size
in silico. Scientists and engineers can visualize the molecular systems that give their materials
their properties, gaining deeper understanding of how and why their materials work. They can
manipulate the immediate environment, test different formulations or functional groups, and
optimize desired properties without needing a single physical experiment. With these material
properties they can then design and optimize parts to meet more complex and specific design
requirements. They can test different shapes, orientations and manufacturing methods to meet and
go beyond current design limitations to create a new world of manufacturing. These possibilities
flip the traditional design and manufacturing paradigm on its head; where a designer limited the
capabilities of his final part based on the constraints of the materials available, now a designer
crafts a material to fit the desired parameters of his final part.
Couple this with other burgeoning technologies like additive manufacturing, and the possibilities
grow exponentially. Single parts can be seamlessly made from multiple materials, or even
gradients of materials.
Runs can be optimized for any number of parameters: cost, mechanical strength, heat resistance or
sustainability. Batches can be made to order, with little to no retooling or recalibrating of
machinery.
In short, the world of manufacturing is on the verge of changing forever. And this vision is not
as far off as it would appear. It is growing. It is coming.
This Program has a special relevance for all the Industrial Area: It can represents a first step
to define New Integrated Strategies for the Multiscale Design and Manufacturing of a New
Generation of “Inherently” Multiscale Hierarchical Products with extended performance and
functionalities
The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is soliciting innovative research proposals in
the area of processes and technology for assembly of systems, components, and materials at millimeter
scale or larger from nanometer scale constituents. Proposed research should investigate innovative
approaches that enable revolutionary advances in science, devices, or systems. Specifically excluded is
research that primarily results in evolutionary improvements to the existing state of practice. The Atoms to
Product (A2P) program seeks to make the use and application of nanometer scale material properties and
devices a viable option to the system designer. To that end, the primary goal of the A2P program is to
develop the technologies and processes required to assemble nanometer scale constituents into systems,
components, or materials that are at least millimeter scale in size. A secondary, yet key program interest is
exploitation of unique nanometer scale characteristics. The systems, components, or materials that result
from the A2P assembly process will leverage unique material properties and/or the miniaturization,
material and geometric heterogeneity, and ability to build in three dimensions made possible by assembly
from the nanometer scale. Assembling nanometer scale constituents into millimeter scale products requires
assembly across six length-scales, i.e., a finished product that is 1,000,000 times larger than the basic
building blocks. It is illustrative to consider how assembly is accomplished over multiple length-scales in
both naturally occurring and man-made systems. In biological assemblies, many length-scales are crossed
using a structural hierarchy. Lipid molecules self-assemble into cell walls, cells are assembled into organs,
and organs combine to form organisms. In similar fashion, man-made assembly typically begins with
millimeter-size and larger components (e.g., nuts, bolts, integrated circuits, wires) that are assembled into
larger subsystems (e.g., displays, gearboxes, fans), which frequently fall in the 10-centimeter to meter scale.
Subsystems are then assembled into final products. A recurring theme in both biological and non-biological
assembly across multiple length-scales is that the size “jump” between each hierarchical level is rarely more
than two or three length scales (100-1000x) The A2P program structure is defined by two hierarchical steps
required to assemble across the six length-scales from the nanometer scale to the millimeter scale (Figure
1). The first step, Technical Area 1 (TA1), is called “Atoms to Micron” and focuses on assembly of (~10-9
m) constituents into micron scale (~10-6 m) components or materials. The second step, Technical Area 2
(TA2), is called “Micron to Milli3meter” and addresses assembly of the micron-scale (~10-6 m) Atoms to
Micron output into systems, components, or materials that are at least at the millimeter scale (~10-3 m).
MBE places high-fidelity predictive models at the heart of process design or operational analysis.
Initial project effort is put into constructing a high-fidelity model of the plant or process that is
predictive over the entire range of interest.
This model is then used to optimize design or operation, exploring a wide design space rapidly and at
low cost, and applying optimisation techniques to determine answers directly rather than by trial and
error simulation.
MBE is based on three core approaches:
First-principles modelling, where all relevant phenomena are described to an appropriate level
of chemical engineering first principles representation. This typically involves detailed mass
transfer, heat transfer and reaction equations.
Multiscale modelling, where phenomena at all relevant scales are taken into account. The
diagram on the right shows, for example, the scales that need to be taken into account for a multi
tubular reactor. The phenomena occurring at a microscale in a catalyst pore can have a significant
influence on the overall (macroscale) reactor design.
1) All the R&D and Engineering/Manufacturing Processes managed by the Project and
their relationships and interdependencies. R&D and Engineering/Manufacturing
Processes are carried out by a new set of Integrated Strategic Multiscale R&D and
Engineering Methodologies and Strategies (Paragraph 3.3)
2) all the Resources and Facilities (Theoretical, Computational, Experimental,
Characterization, Laboratory and Operational Testing) applied inside the Project and
their links with related R&D and Engineering/Manufacturing Processes and Tasks
(see Paragraph 4.2)
3) all the concerned Entities/Organizations/Teams which play specific roles inside the
Project for specific R&D and Engineering/Manufacturing Processes and Tasks(see
Paragraph 4.2)
PHASE 0:
1) Definition of the Functions and Functionalities to be carried out by the “Overall Complex Cyber –
Physical – Human System” which represents the “Objective of the “Program” and what are the
“Program Objectives”
This Phase describes the Fundamental Objective of the Program. Specific new
“Strategic Multiscale Digital Twin Environments” (Paragraph 3.3.5) and Maps
describe this “Context and Scenario”
PHASE 1:
a) Design of the “Functional Architecture” of the Program: Definition of the “Specific Projects” which
constitute the “Program”, ”, their Objectives, Functions, Structural and Technological Architecture of
the “ Cyber-Physical- Human Systems” that will be built and related relationships and
Interdependencies at all the relevant Scales & Levels.
b) Analysis of what operational capabilities, functionalities and performance can be achieved using
existing technologies, engineering and manufacturing solutions and what advances could be
considered necessary: Virtual Strategic Multiscale Space – Time Machines (Paragraph 4.5) are an
important resource to perform simulations
c) first evaluation of R&D activities thought to be needed. Results of hypothesized Research,
Technological and Engineering Advances on operational capabilities, functionalities and performance
of the Design and Implemented Systems can also be modeled and simulated using Virtual Strategic
Multiscale Space – Time Machines (Paragraph 4.5)
Inside all these Steps can also apply the “Virtual Strategic Multiscale Innovative Technologies and
Systems Design Modeling and Simulation Framework” (Paragraph 4.5) and Methods described in the
Chapter 2.. Several hypotheses are taken into account. Economic and Risk Analyses can also be
performed.
d) Definition of the overall Architecture of the R&D and Engineering Process: Multilevel Network of
R&D and Engineering Phases and Tasks and related relationships and interdependencies More
hypotheses can be worked out at the starting time. Hypotheses are tuned and/or modified following
Analysis results. The Integrated Information – Driven Strategic Multiscale R&D and Engineering
Analysis and Design Schemes, Strategies and Environments (Paragraph 3.3.6) and the Virtual
Strategic Multiscale Space – Time Machines (Paragraph 4.5) represent fundamental resources to
“Design” R&D and Engineering Processes.
Hierarchical Networks
A general version of Hierarchical Networks incorporates Hierarchical Links (blue line) and
non- Hierarchical Links (red line)
At the highest Level we have what can be called Phase 0 or (Root Phase) which refers to a specific R&D and
Engineering/Manufacturing Project/Program.
“Analysis/Design Strategy Maps”, describe Architecture and characteristics of Phases and Tasks in the
General Multilevel Hierarchical Network. Each Phase incorporates, in the more general case, a Hierarchy of
Multilevel more elementary Phases and Tasks. In turn, each Task can incorporate a Hierarchy of more
Elementary Tasks.
Each “Analysis/Design Strategy Map”, related to Phases and Tasks, keeps track of several “Hypotheses”
linked to:
a) a range of possible Architectural, Technological, Manufacturing Solutions for the Concerned “Architectural
Element” which describe the “System” and the “Operational Environments” where the “System” will have
to operate to be analysed and designed
b) a range of possible R&D and Engineering Analysis Strategies (what analytical, computational methods and
models, experimental, characterization, testing and sensing techniques and related integration schemes are
selected)
During the execution of the Program, “Hypotheses” are progressively modified/discarded and New
“Hypotheses” can be formulated until Final Decisions.
Each “Analysis/Design Strategy Map” also describes: what Research, Technological, Experimental, Testing,
Civil, Infrastructural, Industrial, Environmental and Socio-Economic “Entities” and “Structures” are concerned
in the Phases and Tasks (Paragraphs 3.2) and related functions, relationships and interdependencies.
The Framework Integrates all the following Concepts, Methods. Strategies and Environments
Chapter 3 Integrated Multiscale Science-Engineering (IMSE) Framework
Strategic Multiscale Science - Engineering Data, Information and Knowledge Management
System (Paragraph 3.2)
Integrated Strategic Multiscale R&D and Engineering Methodologies and Strategies (Paragraph
3.3)
Strategic Multiscale Science-Engineering Information Space (Paragraph 3.3.1)
The Information Driven Concept and Analysis Scheme Paragraph (3.3.2) [Key Driving Principle]
Multiscale Modeling and Simulation as Knowledge Integrators and Multipliers (Paragraph 3.3.3)
Multiscale Multiresolution Multiphysics Experimentation, Testing and Sensing (Paragraph 3.3.4)
Strategic Multiscale Digital Twin (Paragraph 3.3.5)
Integrated Information-Driven Strategic Multiscale R&D and Engineering Analysis and Design
Schemes and Strategies (Paragraph 3.3.6)
Chapter 4 Integrated Strategic Multiscale Science - Engineering - Society
Collaboratory Cyber & Physical Framework
Strategic Multiscale Multidisciplinary Science - Engineering Society (Earth and Space Based)
Society Framework (Paragraph 4.2)
Strategic Multiscale Science-Engineering Knowledge Integrator and Multiplier Computing,
Information and Communication (CIC) Infrastructural Framework (Paragraph 4.3)
Virtual Strategic Multiscale Science – Engineering – Society Knowledge Integrators and Multiplier
Centers (Paragraph 4.4)
Virtual Strategic Multiscale Innovative Technology and Systems Development and
Implementation Modeling And Simulation Framework (Paragraph 4.5).
Design new Schemes and Structures for Data, Information and Knowledge Organization,
Analysis and Interpretation: Multiscale Multidisciplinary Maps and Knowledge Domains
The IMSE Framework can embody and take full advantage of a wide spectrum of Data
Analytics, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning Methods, Techniques and
Environments
The Multiscale Multiresolution Maps here described is an extension of the “Map” concept discussed by
Alessandro Formica in the ”Multiscale Science – Engineering Integration: A new Frontier for Aeronautics,
Space and Defense White Book” published on March 2003 by Italian Association of Aeronautics and
Astronautics (AIDAA).
Multiscale Multiresolution Multiphysics Multicomponent Maps are “Multiscale Multiresolution
Information and Knowledge Structures” describing complex networks of relationships and interdependencies
between a large spectrum of “Information Variables” characterizing “Systems Structure and Dynamics”.
Relationships and interdependencies between “Information Variables” are worked out applying a wide spectrum
of Mathematical techniques like Data Analytics, AI techniques, Neural Networks,… to raw data coming from a
wide range of “Data Sources” (analytical and computational models, data bases, experimentation,
characterization, testing and sensing techniques and systems). covering the full spectrum of scales (from
atomistic to macro and mega as needed) and the full spectrum of disciplines. Multiscale Maps structure Data and
turn Data into Information. Maps are organized in a hierarchical way: A “Map” can incorporate a set of lower
level Maps. For instance: a “Multiscale Physical Map” linked to a specific Process (Hypervelocity Impact,
Combustion or Explosion, for instance) can be constructed by assembling a range of Multiscale Physical Maps
describing more elementary physical (chemical and biochemical) phenomena (fracture, fragmentation, phase
change,..) related to a specific materials and/or component/material of a System. Accordingly any “Element”
represented inside a Map can be decomposed into more elementary “Elements”. Representations can be static
and dynamic. Multiscale Maps can incorporate error analyses and uncertainty quantification methods. Multiscale
Maps make an extensive use of “ 2D/3D – 4D (time dependent) Multiscale Multiresolution Static and
Dynamic Graphic Representations”.
Hierarchical Networks
A general version of Hierarchical Networks incorporate Hierarchical Links (blue line) and non-
Hierarchical Links (red line)
Multiscale Multi Abstraction Knowledge Domains are a further organization level. “ Knowledge Domains”
are Structures that can aggregate several Maps of the same typology or of different typologies related to the
same or different operational conditions, analysis and design hypotheses, solutions and tasks. Maps can be set
up and integrated inside a “Knowledge Domain” applying several aggregation and clustering schemes.
“Knowledge Domains” can be organized in a “Hierarchical Way”. “Knowledge Domains” can be related to
specific R&D and Engineering/Manufacturing Tasks and Phases. They can track “Knowledge” structure and
organization as we transition from a R&D and Engineering Phase and Task to another one. “Multiscale Maps”
and “Multiscale Knowledge Domains” allow for an effective insertion and management of the more fundamental
knowledge (basic and applied research) inside the sequence of Technology Development and Engineering
phases. At each step/phase of the R&D and Engineering Process, Multiscale Maps and “Knowledge Domains”
are built taking full advantage of the knowledge get in the previous step/phase. Two fundamental typologies of
Maps are foreseen which describe relationships among variables, structures and processes:
A) R&D And Engineering (for systems of any kind of complexity) Maps
Fig. 5 describes the Two dimensional multilevel multiscale view of an aircraft. (from the “Validation Pyramid
and the failure of the A-380 wing” Presentation given by I. Babuska (ICES, The University of Texas at Austin),
F. Nobile (MOX, Politecnico di Milano, Italy), R. Tempone (SCS and Dep. of Mathematics’, Florida State
University, Tallahassee) in the context of the Workshop “Mathematical Methods for V&V SANDIA,
Albuquerque, August 14-16, 2007
Three new features distinguish this kind of Maps and related Multiscale Multilevel Science – Engineering CAD
Systems:
Multiscale Multilevel Architectural/Structural Element Networks Analysis and Description. New extended
CAD Systems should describe the full set of multiscale multilevel (from the atomic to the macro and mega
level) multilevel (inside a single scale) Architectural and Structural Elements of a System (or System of
Systems) - including the “Operational Environment” - and related interconnections. Interconnection
Elements describe two – way interactions among Elements. This feature is of particular importance for
“System Engineering” analyses and if we like to assess the impact of the System upon the environment
where it operates and the effects of the Environment on the System for the whole Life Cycle and the whole
spectrum of operational conditions including extreme ones and accidents.
Zooming and Selected Multilevel Multiscale view capabilities. Users should have the possibility to select a
full spectrum of views at different levels of resolution and scales. Multiple views should be visualized in
order not to lose connections among different levels of abstraction, resolution and scales. The zooming
function should allow users to transition from a levels of abstraction, levels and scales in an interactive way.
Multi Abstraction Levels: we can select groups (clusters) of architectural/structural elements of different
typologies over a spectrum of scales and resolution levels as needed to carry out specific analyses and
design tasks.
Architectural, Structural, Technological Maps evolve along the Technology and Systems Development and
Engineering Analysis and Design Process thanks to Analysis and Design Modules and “Strategy Modules”.
“Maps” are built using the available knowledge; as analysis and design activities proceed, they are interactively
modified. Different Maps can be linked to different Architectural Hypotheses and Decisions for different
purposes and tasks during the R&D, Engineering and Systems Development Process. Maps are recorded,
organized and managed in specific “Architectural, Structural, Technological and Socio-Economic Map
Data Bases”. Architectural and Structural Elements Maps are related to:
Functional Maps
Monitoring and Control Maps
Physics Maps
Socio- Economic Maps
Multiscale Analysis and Design Variable Maps tracking relationships between Analysis and Design
Variables. Multiscale Analysis and Design Variable Maps are built applying statistical analysis schemes
(multivariate, PCA…..) or other techniques like neural networks, AI,…. to data coming from several sources:
data bases, computation, analytical theories, experimentation, testing, sensing. Data integration and fusion
techniques are applied to reconcile and integrate data coming from different sources characterized by a range of
accuracy and reliability degrees. Multiscale Analysis and Design Variable Maps describe relationships between
variables used to characterize “Systems Behaviour” over a full range of space and time scales and disciplines
and over a range of operational conditions.
Multiscale Physics Maps describing the Physical, Chemical, Biochemical Phenomena and Processes which
determine the behaviour and dynamics of any kind of “System” under consideration for all the Levels and
Scales. The following table illustrates a textual version of a simplified Physics Map:
Multiscale Socio-Economic Maps which describe relationships and interdependencies among social and
economic phenomena and processes
Multiscale Socio-Economic-Architectural/Technological and Operational Modalities Maps describing
relationships among socio-economic phenomena and processes with specific Architectural/Technological
Solutions and Operational Modalities.
Multiscale Monitoring and Control Maps describing (Hierarchical) Networks of Sensors and Control
Devices and Systems and their relationships with Elements to be monitored and controlled (described in the
Multiresolution Multiscale Architectural/Structural Maps). Transformation (Dynamical) Processes induced
by control actions are described thanks to Multiresolution Multiscale Physics Maps and Multiresolution
Multiscale Architectural/Structural Maps. This kind of Maps describes the “variables” monitored and
controlled, time and space monitoring and control resolution, sensing and control devices characteristics and
operational schemes.
Multiscale Monitoring and Control Maps are related to:
Architectural and Structural Maps
Physics Maps (Physical and Bio-Chemical ) Phenomena and Processes Monitored and related effects
of Control actions
Multiscale Functional Maps describing relationships between Functions performed by
Architectural/Structural/Technological Elements (from basic Elements to the whole Engineering/Civil/
Infrastructural/ Socio-Economic System) and the Operational Modalities.
Fig. 4 Physics Map Example (from “Overview of the Fusion Materials Sciences Program Presented by S.J.
Zinkle, Oak Ridge National Lab Fusion Energy Sciences Advisory Committee Meeting February 27, 2001
Gaithersburg”)
The previous figure depicts a “Information Structure” like the proposed Multiscale Physics Maps. In this case
the Multiscale Physics Map describes relationships between physical phenomena and chemical/physical
structural transformations linked to Radiation Damage Process for Metals. A cluster of Multiscale Physics
Maps, linked to specific physics phenomena or processes, architectural element and operational conditions, can
define what can be called a “Physical (Chemical and Biochemical) Phenomena and Processes Knowledge
Domain”. Knowledge Domains are managed by the Multiscale Science - Engineering -Society Data,
Information and Knowledge Management System.
“Functional Maps” defined during the Technology Development and Engineering Process are recorded,
organized and managed by specific “Functional Maps Data Bases”. Maps are indexed in such a way as to
relate them to specific R&D and Engineering Phases and Tasks.
Physics Maps
We use the term “Physics” to indicate a set of physical, chemical and biochemical phenomena/processes
occurring inside a scale or developing over a spectrum of scales. We can extend the “Physics” concept by
including also socio.- economic phenomena and processes. In the Scientific and Engineering Areas,
Phenomena/Processes are, for instance, failure, stress corrosion cracking erosion, phase transformation,…… A
Process can be broken down in a full hierarchy of more elementary Processes and Phenomena. The distinction
between “processes” and “phenomena” is, to some extent, arbitrary. It is a matter of opportunity. Phenomena and
Processes can concern one or more Architectural/Structural Elements.
Physics Maps are linked to Multiscale Methodologically Integrated Strategy Maps described in the Paragraph
2.3.5 Multiscale Methodologically Integrated Strategy Maps describe what Computational Models,
Experimentation, Testing and Sensing Techniques/Procedures are applied to analyze specific physical
phenomena/processes and their interconnection networks, sequence of execution and data. Physics Maps are
built using the available knowledge, as R&D and Engineering proceed, they are interactively modified.
“Physics Maps” defined during the R&D, Engineering and Systems Development Process are recorded,
organized and managed by specific “Physics Maps Data Base”.
functions to physical phenomena and processes (linking Multiscale Functional Maps with Multiscale
Physics Maps
Fig. 6 (from Questek) illustrates the application of a Performance – Properties - Structure – Processing Map to
the design of new alloys.
Performance – Properties –Structure - Processing Maps are indexed in such a way as to relate them to specific
R&D, Engineering and System Development Phases and Tasks. Performance – Properties - Processing –
Structure Maps defined during the R&D and Engineering Process for different purposes and tasks are organized
and recorded in the “Performance – Properties - Structure - Processing Map Data Bases” The Multi
Abstraction Level feature of the Maps can be seen in the figure: each box is a specific abstraction level. Each
Box refer to a cluster of processes occurring over u spectrum of scales and resolution levels.
This kind of software environments contribute to characterize and manage relationships between processing and
manufacturing activities and the resulting architecture/structures
Multiscale Multilevel Manufacturing and Processing Execution Flow: this kind of Maps describes, for
each specific Manufacturing (Continuous and/or Discrete) Process of any level of complexity the execution
flow (manufacturing/processing sequence of steps) throughout the full set of Plants. Process Units, Cells,
Machines/Robots,…., the work performed at each step, the characteristics of the “Unit”, the
structural/chemical/physical transformations worked out (also using Architectural/Structural Maps and
Physics Maps), the inspections performed, the materials flow…..
Multiscale Manufacturing “Systems – any level of the hierarchy” - Operational Modes - Environmental
Emission Maps Theses Maps represent a new “Generation” of Maps specifically conceived to evaluate the
impact on the Environment of Manufacturing/Processing “Systems” for a wide range of operational
conditions and design solutions. Maps describe relationships among Manufacturing System (any level), its
Operational Modes and related Emissions (any kind).
Multiscale Maps represents a key element of new IMSE-TSPD (Chapter 5) and IMSE-TSDD (Chapter 6)
Frameworks Main objectives:
Developing new schemes allowing for a more in-depth analysis and structuring of data, information and
knowledge and related correlations and interdependencies
Integrating the full spectrum of “Data Sources” (Data Bases, Analytical Theories, Computational
Models, Experimentation , Testing and Sensing). The “Information Space” and the “Modeling and
Simulation as Knowledge Integrators and Multipliers” concepts and methods can ease this kind of
Integration
In this case a “Cross Validation” strategy is applied which foresee the comparison of a spectrum of
experimentation, testing and sensing techniques. We should take into account that if models do not deliver the
“Gospel Truth” not even Experimentation, Testing and Sensing techniques do it
It is possible to apply different schemes to build the “Information Space” for a specific task. For instance:
fixing model and methodology variables and varying external conditions and/or system variables (typology
and architecture of a material or device)
fixing external conditions and system variables and varying model and/or methodology variables (for a
molecular dynamics model: simulation time, force fields typology, number of particles,…).
any other possible combinations
The Information Space, for each specific computational model/method (or cluster of models: multiscale
multiphysics) applied to a specific task includes information about the computing resources needed to perform
simulations and the Experimental, Characterization, Testing and Sensing techniques used to validate it
In this way, can we get more reliable and accurate information instrumental to reducing cost and development
time and introduce innovative technological solutions? The answer is not so straightforward. Turbulence plays a
key role in flow dynamics phenomena of critical importance for the design of a wide range of systems. Suppose
the biggest simulation model used the same turbulence model (or a slight modification) as the one employed in
the smallest one, what is the relationship among the number of grid points, turbulence modeling (model
variables) and the capacity of getting the needed engineering information at the right level of accuracy (for
instance : CP - CL or vortex dynamics – look at the V-22 vortex ring state story) ? Is the number of grid points or
the turbulence modeling the dominant knowledge factor from a designer point of view?
The situation becomes even more critical when the physics and chemistry to be taken into account are highly
complex (aerothermodynamics and combustion, for example). It is sufficient to think at a combustion chamber
or an hypersonic vehicle. Several variables such as complex thermo chemical phenomena, the interactions
between turbulence and chemistry, multiphase and phase change phenomena, condition the information space
linked to a model.
We introduce, now, the “Range of Validity” concept for the “Multiscale Science-Engineering Information
Spaces” associated to models/methods and Experimental, Characterization, Testing and Sensing techniques and
procedures.
“Range of Validity” is the range of the “Multiscale Science-Engineering Information Space” inside which we
can get a set of information from specific models/methods and Experimental, Characterization, Testing and
Sensing procedures/techniques and possible coupling schemes at a certain level of accuracy and reliability
(uncertainty quantification).
It is of fundamental relevance to determine how the “Range of Validity” changes as model, method,
experimental & testing and coupling scheme variables change. The “range of validity” is a key element to
determine (for a specific task) :
how “good” computational models and Experimental, Characterization, Testing and Sensing techniques and
coupling schemes should be to get Information we think to be needed to carry out a task at a predefined error
and uncertainty level.
how to define the right mix of computational models/methods and experimental & testing
procedures/techniques and coupling schemes to get what we think to be the right information at the right
level of accuracy and uncertainty to perform a specific R&D and Engineering analysis and design task..
Fig. 7 (Center for Computational Materials Design – NSF) describes a framework to define in a formal way the
“Range of Validity (or Applicability Domain)” of a model
The “Multiscale Science-Engineering Information Space” formalizes what, today, is being performed in an
empirical and semi-empirical way. Such a formal procedure allows us to rigorously evaluate the relative weight
of the several “model/method/technique variables” as function of the “Information Space” and the best
research/development paths for computational models/methods and experimental & testing techniques to
address specific challenges.
The need of defining the “Information Space” associated to computational method and experimental
techniques, in the context of the Verification & Validation process, has been analyzed, for instance, by Tim
Trucano in “Uncertainty in Verification and Validation: Recent Perspective Optimization and Uncertainty
Estimation, Sandia National Laboratories Albuquerque, NM 87185-0370 SIAM Conference on
Computational Science and Engineering, February 12-15, 2005, Orlando, Florida - SAND2005-0945C”.
Fig. 8 The figure (from the previously quoted document) illustrates the “Information Space concept
Thanks to the “Strategic Multiscale Science – Engineering Information Space” concept and method, it is
possible to define “Costs/Benefits Function” for models/methods and related coupling schemes as referred to
different Technology Development and Engineering tasks. “Benefits” are referred to the Information get and
“Costs” to the resources needed to develop, validate and apply models/methods/techniques/coupling schemes.
This kind of Function could be useful to Technology Development and Engineering Project Managers to better
manage and allocate human, organizational and financial resources.
The “Strategic Multiscale Science – Engineering Information Space” and the “Range of Validity” concepts can
be related with new Verification and Validation (V&V) strategies and methods. Uncertainty Quantification
(UQ) is a key challenge for Computational Science and Engineering. UQ and “Quantification of Margin of
Uncertainty (QMU)” [performance (measured) vs. requirements (set)] , are becoming (have already become)
one of the new driver and objective for the Computational World. The Predictive Science Academic Alliance
Program (PSAAP) managed by US National Nuclear Security Agency (NNSA) is a clear example of application
of these statements.
The “Strategic Multiscale Science-Engineering Space” is of fundamental importance to define and implement
“Methodologically Integrated Multiscale Science-Engineering-Society Strategies” which foresee the
coherent use of several different single and multiscale computational models and methods, and several different
single and multiscale Experimental, Characterization, Testing and Sensing techniques working over a full range
of scales nd disciplinary fields.
The “Strategic Multiscale Science - Engineering Information Space is becoming of increasingly importance for
Science and Engineering because for a specific tasks is common using a spectrum of computational models and
a spectrum of experimental techniques and methods. Integration calls for rigorous methodologies to determine
what kind of Information can be get from computations and what from experimentation, testing and Sensing.
According to the previous analysis, the “Strategic Multiscale Science-Engineering Information Space”
concept and method is instrumental to identify:
shortcomings and limitations of computational models/methods and related multiscale
multiphysics coupling schemes for specific R&D and Engineering tasks
development lines (roadmaps) for computational models and methods and multiscale coupling
schemes to achieve specific R&D and Engineering objectives
shortcomings and limitations and development lines (roadmaps) for Experimental,
Characterization, Testing and Sensing techniques and procedures and related multiscale
multiphysics coupling schemes
integrated roadmaps for jointly developing multiscale multiphysics analytical, computational and
(multiscale) experimental, testing and Sensing techniques to deal with specific R&D and
Engineering Tasks
integrated strategies for jointly applying multiphysics multiscale analytical, computational and
(multiscale) Experimental, Characterization, Testing and Sensing techniques/procedures to deal
with specific R&D and Engineering Tasks
However, it is important to highlight that computational models can be also applied in what can
be defined an “Exploratory Mode”(outside the validation context) to give “hints” functional to
guide experimental, characterization, testing and sensing activities as foreseen in the
Strategic Multiscale theoretical and methodological context.
Single and/or Multiscale Models should not be considered as “Magic Boxes”. We should take into
account that validation methods and strategies are also strongly dependent on the “operational
conditions” where they are carried out. It is sufficient a small modifications of the operational
conditions to change reliability and completeness of validation results. Furthermore it is
necessary to consider that validation procedures concern, in many cases of real industrial value,
not a simple piece of material, but devices and components mutually interacting with varying (in
some cases stochastically) boundary and loading conditions. “Designing” Validation techniques
and procedures needs special care and attention. It is important to understand the real “reliability”
of Validation Procedures when they try to reproduce real operational conditions. Last but not least
consideration: if single and multiscale models do not deliver the “Gospel Truth”, not even
(Multiscale) Experimental, Characterization, Testing and Sensing Techniques deliver the “Gospel
Truth”, the real “Strategic Value” resides in their “Integration”
The tactical and strategic value of Strategic Multiscale Multidisciplinary Models is linked to their role of
“Multi-Disciplinary and Knowledge Integration Elements”. Multiscale Multidisciplinary Models are
a fundamental resource to integrate, inside a coherent Strategy, a wide range of tools and methods,
maximizing in this way the potentialities of the single methods and techniques. scenario single and
multiscale, modeling and simulation can and should play the central role of Multiscale
Multidisciplinary Models can be considered “Knowledge Integrator and Multiplier (KIM)”
Resources by synthetizing data, information, and knowledge from a number of different disciplines, a
wide range of scientific and engineering time and space scales, multiple scientific and engineering
models, experimental, characterization, testing and sensing techniques.
This new “Multi-Methodology Multiscale Integration Strategy”, which can take full
advantage of Artificial Intelligence(AI), Machine Learning and Data Analytics
Techniques, can be considered a new “Strategy” to achieve higher degrees of
Modeling Predictive Levels
“The need for an “Information Driven” strategy . “….There are many interrelated technical challenges and
issues that will need to be addressed in order to successfully develop new approaches for accelerated insertion.
These include, but are not limited to, the following:
The construction of the designer’s knowledge base: What information does the designer need and to what
fidelity? How does one coordinate models, simulations, and experiments to maximize information content? What
strategies does one use for design and use of models, computations, and experiments to yield useful information?
How can redundancies in the data be used to assess fidelity ? The development/use of models and simulation:
What models are required to be used and/or developed in the context of the designer knowledge base? How can
models of different time and length scales be linked to each other and to experiments? How can the errors
associated with model assumptions and calculations be quantified? How can models be used synergistically with
experimental data ?
The use of experiments: Are there new, more efficient experimental approaches that can be used to accelerate
the taking of data? How can experiments be used synergistically with models? How can legacy data and other
existing data base sources be used ?
The mathematical representation of materials: How can one develop a standardized mathematical language to:
describe fundamental materials phenomena and properties; formulate reliable, robust models and
computational strategies; bridge interfaces; and identify gaps between models, theory and experimental
materials science and engineering? How can this representation be used to develop hierarchical principles for
averaging the results of models or experiments while still capturing extremes ?……”
In the context of the “Integrated Strategic Multiscale Science – Engineering Framework”, “Information” is a
key element which, to a large extent, drives and shapes R&D and Engineering/Manufacturing Strategies.
The term “Information – Driven” means that R&D and Engineering/Manufacturing strategies for specific Tasks
have to address what can be called “The Information Challenge for R&D and Engineering” :
– What Information at what level of accuracy and reliability (uncertainty quantification) is needed to
accomplish a task. At the starting time of the R&D and Engineering Process we can select some initial
hypotheses.
– What Relationships and Interdependencies between analysis and design variables should be tracked over a
full range (as needed) of space and time scales to accomplish a task
– What kind of information sources (Analytical, Computational, Experimental, Characterization, Testing and
Sensing Models/Techniques) are needed and how they can be integrated to get the previously identified
information
Accordingly, the following key issues define the “The Information Driven Analysis and Design Scheme for
R&D and Engineering/Manufacturing Processes”:
a) Select an initial range of Architectural/Technological and Operational Hypotheses for the System to be
designed and developed
b) Select a set of reference scales and resolution levels (the choice is not unique and it is related to a specific
Phase and Task)
c) identify physical phenomena, geometry and variables at the different space and time scales which influence
the dynamics of a system at the reference scale at a certain level of accuracy and fidelity (different scenarios
for accuracy and fidelity can be taken into account).
d) identify at a qualitative and quantitative level relationships and interdependencies among phenomena,
geometry, equations and variables at the different scales
e) assess how and to what extent (qualitative and quantitative evaluation) the capability of getting information
thought to be needed to describe the dynamics of the system at the reference scale at a certain level of
accuracy and fidelity is affected by the spectrum of phenomena at the other scales.
f) assess how requirements defined at a scale determine and affect requirements to the other scales The
definition of how information and requirements propagate in a qualitative and quantitative way (in a
deterministic and/or probabilistic fashion and taking into account uncertainties) from a scale to another scale,
from a resolution level to another resolution level, is a key step to :effectively deal with physics as well as
with system and process complexity
g) Assess what Information at what level of accuracy and reliability is thought to be needed to accomplish a
R&D and Engineering task . “Thought to be needed” means that the process is iterative, we start with some
hypotheses and just Multiscale Science-Engineering Strategies and related Data, information and
Knowledge Analysis schemes and tools give us the possibility to improve evaluation about the Information
needed to execute the task. Example : What Information (what physical and chemical phenomena and
processes related to materials, structures and chemically reacting flows and their interactions) at what level
of accuracy and uncertainty should we know to analyze the dynamics of a Thermal Protection Systems of an
Hypersonic Vehicle for a specific operational environment?
h) Evaluate what physical length scales and related physical and biochemical phenomena rule the dynamics of
the “system” under analysis for a specific Tasks, what is the relative weight, what are relationships and
interdependencies between phenomena and processes inside a scale and between different scales (to be
described thanks to Multiscale Maps).
i) Evaluate what Information at what level of accuracy and reliability can existing analytical, computational
models, experimental, testing and Sensing techniques and related coupling scheme give us (to be described
using the “Strategic Multiscale Science – Engineering Information Space”).
j) Assess what characteristics (Information Spaces) should new models/techniques and related coupling
schemes have
k) Assess what combination of old and new computational, analytical, and experimental/testing methodologies
at different levels of scale and resolution do we need to get the right information at the right level of
accuracy and completeness for the different tasks in the different R&D and design stages. A critical step for
the “rational design” of the R&D and engineering processes is a proper selection, integration, and
sequencing of computational and analytical models and experimental/testing methodologies with varying
degrees of complexity and resolution. To do that we have to define the “ Science-Engineering Information
Space” associated to each methodology.
l) Assess how good Analytical and Computational models, Experimental, Characterization, Testing and
Sensing techniques and related coupling schemes should be to get the previously identified information
thought to be needed to accomplish a task. How “good” means evaluating how much “physical realism”
should be incorporated into the models and what scales hierarchy has to be taken into account. Not in all the
cases, of course, we really need complex multiscale methodologies going down to the Schrödinger
equations: simple single scale models can be accurate and reliable enough.
Note: This kind of Information is critical to evaluate what new analytical and computational
models and what new Experimental, Characterization, Testing and Sensing procedures/techniques
should be developed and integrated to deal with a specific analysis task.
It is important to identify not only what we know, but, in particular, what we do not know,
what we should know, how we should know it (what combination of scientific and
engineering methodologies and technologies should be needed). In this context, the “lack
of Knowledge” becomes and important element to guide Strategies.
Furthermore, another very critical issue is that we need a rational approach to link advances in the
different methods at the different scales with the new information we need to meet challenges in the
different tasks in the different stages of the R&D and engineering process. How do we effectively
and timely evaluate the impact of scientific methodological and information advances at an atomic,
molecular, and grain (for materials) level on new technological and engineering solutions if we do
not have conceptual and methodological (multiscale) frameworks to link methods and information at
the different scales: from atomic to continuum? The “Multiscale Science-Engineering Information
Space” can represent a first step to deal with these critical issues. If we like to shape new
cooperative schemes between industry, from one side, and academia and research, from the other
side, we have to define specific methodologies to evaluate the “industrial and technological value”
of new scientific methodological advances.
It is to be highlighted that this “Analysis Scheme” is adaptive and iterative. It should be carried out at the
starting time of any R&D and Engineering/Manufacturing Phase and Task using available data, information and
knowledge and formulating hypotheses: Results get during the execution of a Phase and related Tasks will
provide data, information and knowledge that allow to update and improve the Analysis Scheme and initial
Hypotheses Phase after Phase, Task after Task.
The “Information-driven” approach is a fundamental element to assess if, where, when and to what extent we
have to go down along the hierarchy of scales. Not in all the cases, of course, we should go down until
Schrodinger equations from the continuum. Don’t Model Bulldozers with quarks (Goldenfeld and Kadanoff,
1999)
In this context, we propose to extend the concept of “Model” to include not only its mathematical
formulation, but, also, Information Spaces and Maps linked to it for specific tasks. We also extend
the concept of “Model” from the Computational to the Experimental, Characterization, Testing and
Sensing World. This Vision gives a New Dimension to the Virtual Engineering and Manufacturing
Concept and Strategy and, at the same time, opens the way to define a New Field: “Virtual
Technology Innovation”. The “Strategic Multiscale Digital Twin” can be a reference context
and representation of this New Field
Multiscale Information Spaces and Multiscale Maps embody and organize Data, Information and Knowledge
get by the full spectrum of analytical theories, a set models at different scales and the related experiments, tests
and Sensing measures used to develop, validate and improve them. It is to be highlighted that all the existing
Modeling and Simulation concepts, application strategies and methodologies, such as “Virtual Prototyping” ,
“Simulation Based Design”, “Simulation - Based Acquisition”, Simulation Based Engineering Science (SBES)
and “Virtual Engineering”, can be considered as particular cases of this more general concept and strategy.
We would like to emphasize that the “KIM” concept puts Multiscale Modeling and
Simulation and, accordingly, HPC, at the center of the R&D and Engineering/Manufacturing
Processes much more than the classical “Virtual Engineering and Manufacturing” and
“Simulation Based Engineering Science” concepts. Multiscale Modeling and Simulation
become a key element to shape Complex (multi and single scale) “Integrated”
Experimental, Characterization, Testing and Sensing Strategies.
The concept of “Model” as “Knowledge Integrator” is certainly not new. This view, in the mid of nineties, was
clearly described in the chemical engineering field by James H. Krieger, in the article “Process Simulation Seen
As Pivotal In Corporate Information Flow” - Chemical & Engineering News, March 27, 1995. The text reported
the following statement of Irving G. Snyder Jr., director of process technology development, Dow Chemical :
"The model integrates the organization. It is the vehicle that conveys knowledge from research all the way up to
the business team, and it becomes a tool for the business to explore different opportunities and to convey the
resulting needs to manufacturing, engineering, and research." . In the same article other companies such as
BNFL and Du Pont expressed similar points of view.
Note: Continuous advances in computational modeling and computing power makes it possible to build
computational models which simulate the experimental or testing apparatus, the system to be probed and related
interactions. This kind of modeling is an interesting asset to plan experimentation, testing and Sensing and
analyze results.
Key element of the KIM Vision is the extension of the concept of “Model” to the Experimental,
Characterization, Testing and Sensing World as detailed in the following box:
Even if attention to the integration issue is positively increasing, particularly for models development and
verification and validation phases, there are still conceptual and methodological relationships not thoroughly
examined between challenges and advances in modeling and simulation, and progress and challenges in
Experimental, Characterization, Testing and Sensing techniques. Experience is showing us that ever more
complex and large scale computations call for increasingly sophisticated and expensive
experimental/testing/sensing techniques both in the model development, validation and improvement phases.
Advances in modeling and simulation are intimately linked to progress in Experimental, Characterization,
Testing and Sensing methods and techniques and vice versa. A direct correlation and strong mutual
dependencies, in the model development, validation and improvement phases, exist between the two fields
sometimes regarded as antithetic. It is important to take into account that, if computational methods and
computing technologies are continuously progressing, also Experimental, Characterization, Testing and Sensing
techniques are making continuous significant progress.
It is sufficient to think at the impact on materials research that the Scanning Tunneling Microscopy (STM) and
Atomic Force Microcopy (AFM) techniques have had.
Furthermore, more and more complex and powerful 3D and 4D Experimental, Characterization, Testing and
Sensing techniques, increasingly call for complex computational models to interpret, analyse and organize data
and define integrated measurement and characterization strategies. A priority target is to develop a unified
conceptual context to synergistically take advantage of advances in both the fields and not only for the
computational models development and validation phases, as it occurs today, but, also, in the application phase.
All of that in the context of Integrated Frameworks and Strategies
An effective R&D and Engineering Strategy should find the way to synergistically take advantage
of advances in both the fields. In several cases, today, advanced HPC/Modeling/Simulation and
experimental/testing/Sensing programs are conceived and managed as separated realities. This
situation can lead to costs increase and hamper and limit the effectiveness of both the programs.
The new Vision reconcile development streams and roadmaps in the two fields.
In the R&D and Engineering Process, today and, more and more, in the future, we have to integrate a full
spectrum of (interdependent and interlinked) scientific and engineering models and codes with a wide spectrum
of Experimental, Characterization, Testing and Sensing (scientific and engineering) data with a full spectrum of
scientific and engineering analytical formulations. Data get from experimentation, testing and Sensing covers
several physical and biochemical disciplines and domains and several different space and time scales. It is clear
that, increasingly, we have to deal with very complex interaction patterns “intra” the experimentation, testing
and Sensing world, “intra” the computational modeling world and “inter” the experimentation, testing, Sensing
and computational modeling worlds. “Multiscale Science – Engineering Information Spaces, Multiscale Maps
and the KIM vision can be a first step to realize this integration. The KIM concept is a fundamental theoretical
and methodological basis. Methodologically Integrated Multiscale Science-Engineering Strategies are built
upon it. Classical Modeling & Simulation Application Strategies in the innovative technology development field
are significantly hampered and limited the following fundamental contradiction: “when we develop
innovative technologies and innovative engineering solutions, we often enter a territory where
theories are not well developed and reliable, and the availability of experimental and testing data is
fragmented or lacking at all. Accordingly, we face a fundamental and intrinsic problem: Modeling &
Simulation is the reference strategy to limit risks, costs, and development times by heavily reducing
the resort to complex and expensive experimental and testing activities. However, contrary to what
happens in the mature or evolutionary technology environment, we cannot adopt this strategy
because we still need very significant experimental and testing activities to develop and validate the
needed computational models.”
That is what is called a classical “Catch 22” situation: (i.e.) a situation which involves intrinsic
contradictions. This contradiction is certainly not ignored. In the presentation “Modeling and
Simulation in the F-22 Program” held on 3 June 98, Bgen Michael Mushala, F-22 System Program
Director, highlighted this issue. We quote his exact words :
A Catch 22 :
>> Increased Reliance on Simulation Requires High Confidence in the Modeling
>> High Confidence in the Modeling Requires High Quality Flight Test Data
How to get out of this contradiction? We think that single scale and independent computational and
experimentation, testing and Sensing science and engineering strategies are not up to the challenge, A partial
way forward can be the application of the new Vision of Modeling and Simulation and, in particular, of some
of its key constitutive elements:
Multiscale Maps
the “Strategic Multiscale Science - Engineering Information Space” concept. which enables the definition in
a formal way of what kind of information at what level of accuracy and reliability can be get by single and
multiscale computational, Experimental, Characterization, Testing and Sensing models and techniques.
A new concept of computational model which include not only mathematical and physical (chemical and
biochemical, as needed) formulations, but, also, Data, Information and Knowledge (Multiscale Maps) linked
to it when applied to a specific task
The extension of the “model” concept to the Experimental, Characterization, Testing and Sensing world
Definition of the “Applicability Conditions” and “Predictability Criteria” for (single and multiscale)
Computational models which guide the application of Modeling and Simulation and their integration with
experimentation, testing and Sensing (Methodologically Integrated Multiscale Application Strategies)
It should be taken into account that, notwithstanding important advances in the Verification & Validation
(V&V), Uncertainty Quantification (UQ) and Quantification of the Margin of Uncertainty (QMU) fields,
methodologies to rigorously validate computational models outside the range of availability of Experimental,
Characterization, Testing and Sensing data, are still, to a large extent, an unsolved issue.
The following issues motivated the birth and they are driving the development of the Multiscale Multiresolution,
Multiphysics Experimental, Characterization, Testing and Sensing fields:
Just the continuous development of Computational Multiscale has put the basis and established the need to
extend, in a systematic way, the Multiscale Concept and Method to the Experimental, Characterization,
Testing and Sensing fields.
The development and validation of ever more complex multiscale computational models and methods
increasingly call for the integration of data, information and knowledge from a wide range of Experimental,
Characterization, Testing and Sensing equipments working over an extended spectrum of space and time
scales and physical domains. We can state that a direct relationship between the Multiscale Computational
and the Experimental, Characterization, Testing and Sensing World exists. Advances in Multiscale
Computational Models and Methods is directly linked to advances in Experimental, Characterization,
Testing and Sensing multiscale. The development of Multiscale Multiresolution Experimentation,
Characterization, Testing and Sensing techniques opens a whole new Application World to Multiscale
Modeling and Simulation.
Hierarchical Multiscale Materials and Systems made up of a wide spectrum of sub-systems, components,
devices and basic structural elements and related Multiscale Manufacturing techniques (additive
manufacturing, for instance) call for Multiscale Integrated Experimental, Characterization, Testing and
Sensing techniques and strategies to get an in-depth and Comprehensive understanding of their dynamics.
The behaviour of Materials, Devices and Systems inside widening operational envelopes and related
requirements for “Extreme Performance” levels (Extreme Engineering) is critically dependent upon a full
spectrum of multiscale physical and biochemical phenomena. Furthermore, the classical approach to Life
Cycle issues (damage, fracture, properties degradation, corrosion, failure..) is increasingly showing specific
limits. This situation makes a science – based (multiscale) Experimental, Characterization, Testing and
Sensing approach a specific target for Technology Development and Engineering.
New and more powerful Experimental, Characterization, Testing and Sensing equipments are continuously
developed. Technology advances allow, today, to design Experimental, Characterization, Testing and
Sensing equipments with inherent capabilities to probe systems over an extended range of scales: Free
Electron Laser and X Ray Synchrotron, are two significant examples of this trend. Advances in wireless and
wired sensor network and the Integration of Distributed Processing and Sensing put the bases to the design
of a new Generation of Multiscale Sensor Networks. Technological Advances in both the fields put the
bases to design and implement Multiscale Multidisciplinary Cyberinfrastructures which connect a wide
spectrum of Experimental, Characterization, Testing and Sensing systems working over a full spectrum of
space and time scales.
As in the Computational context the challenge, now, is to devise “integrated strategies” to fully exploit a wide
spectrum of new potentialities so, in the Experimental, Characterization, Testing and Sensing World, we have
the same challenge: devising integrated strategies. The next logical step is a full integration of the two Worlds as
envisaged in this Document to shape Methodologically Integrated R&D and Engineering Strategies. The
“Strategic Multiscale Digital Twin” represent a comprehensive realization of this step (Paragraph 2.3.5).
We would like to highlight that the whole theoretical and methodological apparatus (Strategic
Multiscale Science – Engineering Information Space and Information Driven Analysis Schemes)
described in the previous Paragraphs can be an important asset to design “Integrated Multiscale
Multiresolution Multiphysics Experimental and Testing Strategies”.
The New “Strategic Multiscale Digital Twin” incorporates all the Concepts, Methods,
Strategies, Environments and Functionalities of the IMSE Framework. Accordingly the
Definition of the “Strategic Multiscale Digital Twin” is the following: Strategic
Multiscale Digital Twin is a Cyber – Physical System which integrates:
1) the Physical World: any kind of Physical System [Engineering and Manufacturing
Systems]
2) the Virtual World [ (Multiscale)) Modeling and Simulation, Data Analytics, AI, Machine
Learning, Virtual Representations,..].
The “Strategic Multiscale Digital Twin” allows to Model, Simulate and Visualize not only
Dynamics of Engineering and Manufacturing Systems, as the classical “Digital Twin”
does, but, also Complex Integrated Strategic Multiscale R&D and Engineering
Environments, Strategies and the Relationships among the elements which constitute the
“Cyber - Physical Systems (CPS)” where Integrated Strategic Multiscale R&D Strategies
are designed, developed and implemented. In such a context it is possible to better
evaluate capabilities, limitations, defects and possible improvements of the several CPS
components and their relationships, interdependencies and integration schemes.
New Functionalities of Strategic Multiscale Digital Twin Systems which incorporate the
IMSE Framework:
Libraries
Libraries are software environments which allow to catalogue and manage the whole set of:
Computational codes which implement a spectrum of methods [Molecular Dynamics, Coarse Grained MD,
Monte Carlo, Density Functional Theory, Phase Fields, Dislocation Dynamics, Continuum Finite Elements,
Agent Based,….] and related specific functionalities, characteristics and application schemes
Single and Multiscale Multiphysics coupling methods and schemes
Applied inside Tasks and Phases and for the whole set of “Hypotheses”
Manufacturing/Processing Libraries
Libraries are software environments which allow to catalogue and describe:
All the Manufacturing/Processing Systems and Units at all the levels and scales and their relationships and
interdependencies
For each Manufacturing/Processing Systems and Units Libraries detail:
Characteristics
Operational Modes
Functions carried out
Links with other Systems/Units
A fundamental issue for all the Multiscale Strategies is to adopt an “Adaptive and Multi Step
Selection of Details and Resolution”
Fundamental Elements of Integrated Strategic Multiscale R&D and Engineering Analysis Schemes
and Strategies are:
Validation means the capability of defining both features of the “Information Space” and its boundaries. In the
engineering fields, models and the related constitutive equations, which represent the physics of solid and fluid
systems, deal mainly or only with the continuum scale. Phenomena at the lower scales (meso and micro) are
taken into account (when it happens) only through averaging and homogenization procedures. Present
engineering models are a mixing of rigorous theoretical assumptions, empirical considerations, and
experimental observations. This classical approach gives only a partial and approximate representation of the
reality, accurate enough in many cases but not completely up to the challenge when extreme operational and
off-nominal conditions are to be taken into account. Or when performance and optimization are pushed to the
limits. Today engineering codes have several empirical factors that users have to define. These settings are not
based on a rigorous physical understanding but on the experience of the designers and the knowledge gained
from experimental activities. All that limits the effectiveness of computational models to significantly reduce
expensive experimental and testing activities in the development of innovative technological systems.
Application Conditions and Predictability Criteria are important “Guiding Principles” to define Multiscale
Modeling and Simulation Application Strategies and to shape “Methodologically Integrated Multiscale Science -
Engineering Strategies”.
The previous boxes represent multiscale multiparadigm schemes (A, B, C, D, E, F are codes based upon
different modeling and coupling methodologies and schemes working in the more general case over a spectrum
of scales. The definition of “Multiscale Methodologically Integrated Strategy Maps” together with Multiscale
Architectural Maps and related Multiscale Physics Maps is a key step for the definition of Multiscale Analysis
Schemes and Strategies. The Strategic Multiscale Science - Engineering Information Space and the
Information Driven Analysis concept (see 2.3.1 and 2.3.2 Paragraphs) are key guiding principles to shape
Analysis Schemes and Strategies. Similar Multiscale Multiparadigm Schemes should be built for Multiscale
Experimental, Characterization, Testing and Sensing Techniques applied to develop and validate Codes and
related Coupling Schemes.
The following schemes (they are only some examples) can be integrated applying the previously described
“Integration Strategy Map:
Scientific Analyses finalized to “Understand” Physical and Bio-Chemical Phenomena and Processes
and their Relationships
The full set of quantum and atomistic computational, Experimental, Characterization, Testing and Sensing
methods and techniques is applied to gain a unified in-depth understanding of scientific and engineering
phenomena/processes and elucidate relationships and interdependencies between phenomena, processes and
system architectural/structural elements inside a scale and across different scales. Multiscale Maps give a
coherent view of the network of relationships and interdependencies among “System Dynamics” variables
turning data from different sources into Knowledge. We can apply both (On Line) and (Off Line) coupling
schemes to integrate quantum and atomistic methods and high resolution Experimental, Characterization,
Testing and Sensing techniques.
The following Box describes the adaptive scheme adopted by US Department of Energy (DoE) in the Extreme
Materials at Extreme Scale Program
Science - Based Reduced Order Modeling, Sub–Grid Models and Constitutive Equations, Analytical
and Computational Reduced Order Models
The knowledge get by a combined use of different single and multiscale models and Experimental,
Characterization, Testing and Sensing techniques and related coupling methods allows to build analytical and
computational models (reduced-order) which incorporate a full and rigorous multiscale theoretical (and also
multi and single scale experimental & testing) understanding, but with a manageable degree of complexity.
A key prerequisite to predictive modeling, is an integrated Science-Engineering approach which will allow, in
the near future, for constitutive equations to be determined from more rigorous and reliable theoretical
formulations which take into account the interactions between phenomena over a full range of scales
This kind of models can be routinely used for engineering and manufacturing design and optimization tasks
because they do not require huge computing power. The fundamental objective is to improve reliability, range of
validity, and effectiveness (understanding and predictive capabilities) of current engineering and manufacturing
models . Reduced order models synthesize the multiscale knowledge and, accordingly, “reduced-order models”
can be regarded as a synthesis and integration of science and engineering.
It should be taken into account that more complex high-tech systems and more tight and wide sets of operational
and performance requirements call for more detailed physics-based models. But ……..
incorporating more details in a model may merely spread uncertainty across multiple factors.
details do not necessarily create information : we need a rigorous methodology to assess the level of detail
needed for a specific task the proposed “Information – Driven Multiscale Science-Engineering Information
Analysis”)
it is not cognitively feasible to do serious engineering design if we have to understand and take into account
a growing number of variables and causal relationships in the context of a huge “Uncertainties Space”
more details mean more parameters to vary and significant increase in the dimensionality of the case space :
that means a “Validation and Uncertainty Management Nightmare”
We would like to highlight that non only numerical methods should be applied. In several cases, multiscale
agent based modeling can be a more that rational choice. Integration of multiscale numerical models with agent
based should be closely evaluated. Multiscale Numerical Models can also be applied to develop “Multiscale
Agent Based” Models
The key objective of this “Strategy” is to define “Multiscale Multiphysics Methodologically Integrated
Strategy Maps” which describe:
What analytical theories, single and multi-scale computational models and what single and multi-scale
Experimental; Characterization, Testing and Sensing Tools, Systems and /Techniques have to be selected to
deal with a specific task
What is the order of execution and the overall Integration Scheme as shaped by the “Applicability
Conditions” and “Predictability Criteria” (Multilevel Network of Computational, Experimental,
Characterization, Testing and Sensing Models/Methods and Techniques)
What is the flow of input and output data (and related Formats) and information/knowledge (Maps) among
the full spectrum of models and experiments/tests/Sensing techniques.
What “resources” [ Computing Centers and Computing Systems, Experimental, Characterization, Testing
and Sensing Systems and Devices (and related operational modes), Teams] are involved. Resources can be
organized into “Classes”
Petri nets, for instance, are well-suited for the modeling of workflow processes
Maps are key resources in shaping more effective strategies aimed at the analysis, fusion and interpretation of
data because they elucidate the network of relationships among the geometrical elements and physical
phenomena which, globally, describe a “System” and its dynamics.
Input and Output Data Formats and the related Flow between “Models” (The Term “Models” include
Experimental, Characterization, Testing and Sensing Techniques”
Multiscale Multiphysics Maps and Knowledge Domains
We consider three Integration Areas (the first two Areas are related to specific methodological classes; the third
one is absolutely general and it incorporate all the methodologies and technologies)
1) Inside the Experimentation, Characterization, Testing and Sensing World: Integration of a full set of
single and multiscale experiments, tests and sensing measurements (performed with a number of
equipments) applied to accomplish a specific R&D and Engineering tasks
2) Inside the Computational World: Integration of a full set of single and multiscale multiphysics
computational models applied to accomplish a specific R&D and Engineering task
3) Among the Experimental, Characterization, Testing, Sensing and the Computational Words:
Integration of a full set of single and multiscale experimental , testing and Sensing techniques with a full
spectrum of computational models experiments and tests to accomplish R&D and Engineering tasks.
“Multiscale Methodologically Integrated Strategy Maps” defined during the R&D and Engineering Process are
recorded, organized and managed by a specific Multiscale Methodologically Integrated Strategy Maps and
Knowledge Domains Base Management System. Several hypotheses can be taken into account and
interactively changed during application.
after Formulating Hypotheses (using available knowledge) about what information we think to be needed to
accomplish a Task, Researchers and Engineers
Set up a list of single a multiscale computational models which can, potentially, give a part (more or less
significant) of the previously identified information
Set up a possible list of single and multiscale experimentation and testing techniques/models which can,
potentially, give a part (more or less significant) of the previously identified information
Build the “Multiscale Science - Engineering Information Space” for computational models, experimental,
testing and sensing techniques/models. We also define the “Range of Validity” of models.
Verify “Applicability Conditions” and “Predictability Criteria” for models
Multiscale Multiphysics Methodologically Integrated Strategy Maps can be linked to and integrated with
Physics Maps, “Requirements, Property, Structure, Performance” and “Processing, Property, Structure,
Performance” Maps
Fig. 9 Simplified Example of Integration Strategy Map (from US Department of Energy (DoE) Fusion
Materials program: Aspects of Multiscale Modeling Primary Damage and Rate Theory Models Presentation
– R. E. Stoller – Metals and Ceramics Division Oak Ridge National Laboratory)_This Figure describes a
possible combination of the proposed Multiscale Map of Physics and Multiscale“ Integration Strategy Map”
of Computational Models and Experiments & Tests
It is useful to define two Multiscale Multiphysics Methodologically Integrated Strategy Maps Application
Typologies:
“R&D and Engineering/Manufacturing Multiscale Methodologically Integrated Strategy Maps” which
describe the combination of Analytical, Computational, Experimental, Characterization, Testing and Sensing
Models, Techniques and Methods and Data Bases used to add and Purposes.
“Verification and Validation Multiscale Methodologically Integrated Strategy Maps” which describe the
combination of Analytical, Computational, Experimental, Characterization, Testing and Sensing Models,
Techniques and Methods and Data Bases used in the Verification and Validation process of a single scale
and multiscale multiphysics “Computational Model” and also single scale and multiscale “Experimental,
Characterization, Testing and Sensing Techniques”.
It is important to emphasize that the application of Strategic Multiscale Analysis Strategies demands some not
secondary modifications in the projects organization, structuring and management. In particular, a fundamental
element is the definition of “Integrated Strategic Multiscale Multidisciplinary Teams”.
Integration develops over three lines:
Disciplines: physics, chemistry, electronics, biology,
Scales: specialists who operate in various in Scientific and Engineering areas
Methodology: specialists who operate in the three methodological contexts: Theory, Computational,
Experimentation & Testing
Integrated Strategic Multiscale Design of the R&D and Engineering Process Architecture develop over the
following steps:
b) Definition of the Structural and Technological Architecture of the “System” to be designed and
manufactured
– Definition of the “System” Structural and Technological Architecture, the related
Manufacturing/Processing Strategies & Technologies and the Operational Environment.
– Identification of the reference scales related to the Analysis/Design/Development and Manufacturing
Phases to be accounted for
– Definition of Functions to be performed by the “System” and by the full hierarchy of its “Elements”
– Definition of the [ System Requirements - Performance – Properties – Structure - Manufacturing
Relationships]
c) Definition of the overall Architecture of the Analysis Process: Multilevel Network of R&D
and Engineering Phases, Tasks and related Strategy Maps. More hypotheses can be worked
out. Hypotheses are tuned and/or modified following Analysis results and recorded/managed
inside “Specific Data Bases”.
c..1) Analysis Strategies Definition (Analyses are carried out by applying the full set of
methods, environments and strategies described in the Item A)
The first Hypothesis of Multiscale Analysis Strategy Map which define the overall Analysis Strategy
(Hierarchy of Phases and Tasks) is built , at the starting time, are built using existing information and
knowledge and processing available data (historical data bases). Then, Analyses deliver new data that
allow to iteratively and interactively modify first Map hypotheses. For each Task of the previously
identified Tasks Network:
Multiscale Maps, at the starting time, are built using existing information and knowledge and
processing available data (historical data bases). Then, Analyses deliver new data that allow to
iteratively and interactively modify first Map hypotheses. For each Task of the previously identified
Tasks Network:
– Identification of physical and bio - chemical structures over the selected scales which are thought to be
relevant for the “Objectives” of the Analysis [Architectural/Structural Maps] – first working hypothesis
– Identification of bio - chemical and physical phenomena/processes and their interdependencies
underlying and characterizing the dynamics of a system and thought to be relevant to meet with the
“Objectives” of the Analysis for the full range of the selected scales [Physics Maps] - first working
hypothesis
– Definition of the “Requirements - Performance – Properties – Architecture/Structure” relationships
inside a scale and over the range of the selected scales [Requirements - Performance – Properties –
Architecture/Structure Maps] - first working hypothesis
Definition of “Methodologically Integrated Strategies”: what is the right combination and the right
sequence of application of single (including reduced order models and analytical formulations) and
multiscale computational models and single and multi-scale Experimental, Characterization, Testing
and Sensing models/techniques to get Information thought to be needed to accomplish specific analysis
tasks [Multiscale Methodologically Integrated Strategy Maps]
Note: from a general point of view, it can be advisable to adopt a “Multiscale Multiphysics Multilevel Multistep
Adaptive” Modeling and Experimental, Characterization, Testing and Sensing Strategy. Multistep Adaptive
means that we start with some simple models, experiments and tests to get a first acquaintance of the dynamics
of the system. The analysis of data, information and knowledge (Multiscale Maps) get from a first run makes it
possible to adaptively increase complexity levels of models, experiments, characterization activities and tests
only as needed for specific tasks.
All the previously quoted Frameworks are conceived to be interconnected and interoperable.
Objectives: The Interconnected Frameworks represent an “Integrated Strategic Multiscale
Multidisciplinary Multifunctional ) Science – Engineering – Society Cooperative Environment and
Platform” to deal in a “Unified Way” with a wide spectrum of Problems and Issues which characterize
the analysis, design, implementation and management of Complex Technological, Industrial, Socio-
Economic Agricultural and Ecological Systems.
Strategic Objectives:
Define New Integrated Planning and Design Strategies and Environments for
Innovative Industrial and Socio – Economic Systems Development (Key Resources:
Virtual Strategic Multiscale Innovative Technologies and Systems Design Modeling
and Simulation Framework and “Strategic” Digital Twin).
These Cyberinfrastructures can represent the optimal “Environment” where the “Strategic
Multiscale Science – Engineering - Society” Framework can be implemented and applied
The Strategic Multiscale Science-Engineering Knowledge Integrator and Multiplier Computing, Information and
Communication (CIC) Infrastructural Framework (Paragraph 3.3) represents the “Intelligence” of the “System.
In fact, the complexity of “Industrial Systems” and the ever wider network of interactions and interdependencies
among the “Industrial Systems (Factories/Plants)” and the Entities described in the Items from b) to e) make the
classical old “Factory/Plant Centred” approach ever more limited and not effective to design modern complex
Industrial Systems whose competitiveness, efficiency, productivity, environmental compliance, safety/security
and socio-economic relevance levels is strongly dependent by a wide range of factors.
This new kind of “Cooperation Contexts” enables researchers, designers, public and private managers and
politicians to synthesize a wide spectrum of different resources, methods and operational schemes and define
comprehensive strategies to meet common objectives and goals. Multiscale Frameworks can be instrumental to
improve correlation between operational requirements, engineering requirements and technological and
scientific advances promoting and accelerating in such a way technological and engineering innovation.
The Extended Enterprise” concept can offer scientists, researchers, public and private managers and politicians
a “unified context” to better understand the complex pattern of relationships and interdependencies among the
wide range of different aspects and issues which characterize the research and technological innovation world
and, accordingly, synthesize widely scattered efforts and forge more effective “unified strategies” to deal with
problems of increasing complexities.
The knowledge get by a combined use of an extended spectrum of scientific computational and experimental
models and techniques, in the context of a Strategic Multiscale analysis scheme, allows us to build an
interlinked hierarchy of analytical and computational models at several levels of abstraction and fidelity to be
applied to different tasks according to a global strategy. The Models Hierarchy can be regarded as a synthesis
and integration of science and engineering.
The Centers offer scientists, researchers, public and private managers, politicians and citizens a “unified context”
to better understand the complex pattern of relationships and interdependencies between civil, agricultural and
infrastructural (transport, energy, industrial plants, communication,….) systems and health, safety,
environmental and climatological issues and challenges (sustainable development). The new Center synthesizes
widely scattered efforts and allows to forge more effective “unified strategies” to deal with tightly interrelated
problems of increasing complexities
B. A New Generation of Cyberinfrastructures referred to as “Strategic Multiscale Multidisciplinary
Science - Engineering - Society Knowledge Integrator and Multiplier (KIM)
Cyberinfrastructures”
The term “Knowledge Integrators and Multipliers” spurs from the previously quoted New Vision of Modeling
and Simulation. New Cyberinfrastructures represent the “Infrastructural and Technological Layer” for the
“Strategic Modeling and Multiscale Framework”:
Scale integration (Multiscale Science and Engineering Integration) involving teams inside University,
Research Centres, Industry, dealing with research and engineering issues at different scales and resolution
levels. The design and implementation of Strategic Multiscale Science – Engineering Cyberinfrastructures or
GRIDs can give a real boost to the development of Strategic Multiscale Multiresolution Experimental,
Characterization, Testing and Sensing technologies, procedures and strategies.
Data, Information and Knowledge Integration: integration of data, information and knowledge from a full
spectrum of sources: theory, experimentation, testing and Sensing) to build Strategic Multiscale Multiphysics
Science – Engineering Data, Information and Knowledge Data Bases
Disciplinary integration : teams working in different Disciplinary Areas: University, Research Centers,
Experimental Testing, Sensing, Monitoring and Control, Industrial and Societal Environments, dealing with
research, engineering and societal issues at different scales and resolution levels.
Methodological integration: teams and groups employing different methodologies (theory, computation,
experimentation/testing/sensing in the context of a deterministic and stochastic approach)
The term “Multiscale Science - Engineering - Society Knowledge Integrator and Multiplier” means that:
the “Strategic Multiscale Concepts, Methods and Strategies Framework”” can be used to design the
Architecture of Cyberinfrastructures and the Operational Modes for Specific Tasks and Objectives he : what
kind of resources are to be interconnected with specific functionalities and performance for specific
Research, Environmental, Engineering, Manufacturing, Societal, Monitoring and Control purposes. This
new kind of Cyber Infrastructures link together the full spectrum of Computational, Experimental,
Theoretical, Testing Centers and Networks of Earth and Space based sensor systems according to Unified
Strategic Multiscale Science - Engineering – Society Strategies.
the “Strategic Modeling and Multiscale Concepts, Methods and Strategies Framework”” can be used to
– Design of Cyberinfrastructures – Based Data and Information Analysis and Fusion Schemes and Strategies
These Centers represent a central node of a new kind of “Strategic Multiscale Science-Engineering-Society
Integrated Earth and Space Cooperative Environment (or Strategic Multiscale Digital Twin)” connecting
University, Research, Industry, Public Organizations and Societal Entities. These Centers aim at becoming a
reference partner for Industry to develop and test new technologies and integrated solutions and a reference
Partner for Public Bodies to:
design rigorous (science – based) solutions and strategies for complex multidisciplinary issues and problems
define rigorous and neutral (science – based) project results evaluation criteria and improvement paths
manage monitoring and control systems
All the Methods, Strategies and Frameworks described in the Chapter 3 are applied inside an
integrated conceptual and application context. Virtual Frameworks described in the Paragraphs
3.3.5 and 4.5 are key Fundamental Tools and Resources for these Centers to Design Integrated
Industrial, Civil, Infrastructural, Ecological, Socio – Economic and Governmental & Administrative
Systems and the related Innovation and Development Strategies.
These Centers, applying the Virtual Strategic Multiscale Innovative Technologies and Systems
Design Modeling and Simulation Frameworks (Paragraph 4.5) and the “Strategic Multiscale Digital
Twin” Environments, are tasked with:
A) Analyzing the effects of new Scientific, Technological and Engineering Advances can have to
design Industrial and Socio-Economic Innovation and Development Strategies (Direct Evaluation
Scheme for a Future Scenario including effects on the environment ,occupation and competitiveness
levels)
B) Analyzing what new Scientific, Technological and Engineering Advances could be needed to
achieve Industrial Innovation and Development Objectives (Inverse Evaluation Scheme for a
Hypothetic Future Scenario including effects on the environment, occupation and competitiveness
levels)
D) Continuously monitor the status of the programs during their implementation and the Societal
dynamics for the whole Life-Cycle in order to assess their effectiveness and efficiency over time in a
wide range of operational conditions. Data collected and analyzed by applying Data Analytics, AI and
Simulation Tools in an integrated way can be a valuable basis to develop new technologies,
engineering, manufacturing and system solutions
E) Managing Monitoring and Control Networks of the Civil, Infrastructural, Industrial and Ecological
Systems
This kind of Virtual Systems and Centers allows us to design a new Generation of
“Adaptive and Integrated Innovative Technology, Industrial, Civil and Infrastructural
(Intelligent Cities, Megacities, Regions, Mega Regions,… ) Socio-Economic and
Ecological Systems.
Adaptivity and Resilience which mean the ability to change operational strategies
following evolving operational conditions represent a “Key Strategic Target”
These Centers can be the basis to develop upon a “New Generation of Strategic
Multiscale Operational Centers” for Cities and Regions
A) Centers to support new R&D and Engineering Developments, and Planning & Design Activities in
the Industrial and Societal fields like the Arizona Decision Center and the CSTEP
B) Centers for Monitoring and Control like the IBM Intelligent Operation Center (IOC)
– A World-Class Center for Science-Based, Informed Analysis – Connecting Science with Practice
– A Home for Policy Makers and the Community to Participate in Immersive, Collaborative Decision
Making – Visualizing the Future through Alternative Scenarios
– A Laboratory for Researchers to Advance the State of-the-Art in Visualization, Computer Sciences,
Cognitive Sciences, and Policy Sciences – Developing a New Science of Policy Informatics
Center for Study of Science, Technology and Policy (CSTEP) Bangalore, India
CSTEP is recognised as a Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation by the Ministry of Science
and Technology, Government of India.
CSTEP's vision: To become the foremost institution for policy innovation and analysis.
CSTEP Mission: To Enrich Policy-Making W ith Innovative Approaches Using Science
and Technology for a Sustainable, Secure and Inclusive Society
CSTEP has recently started research in the area of governance. The objective is to improve
transparency, efficiency, accountability and participation through knowledge based research and
technology. It is also a cross-cutting theme across its other verticals: to guide implementation of
technology enabled policy options. CSTEP believes that technology can play an anchoring role in
strengthening the pillars of governance, and effective governance itself enriches the process of policy
making and implementation.
Fig. 10 (from Georgia Institute of Technology) well describes the Multiscale and Integration Scenario for
Complex Systems: From Atoms to Assembly, Product , Industrial System and Ecosystems
Fig. 11 Chemical Plant Development from Molecules, to Devices, Units and the whole Plant
The previous graphical representations have a general value and they can be applied to any Technological,
Engineering Industrial, Civil, Infrastructural and Socio-Economic sector and system. The Operational and
Ecological Environments where the “System” is inserted and two-way relationships and interdependencies
between the “Systems” and the “Operational and Ecological Environment” itself are also modeled and
simulated.
Innovative Technology and Systems Development Processes can be described by the Technology Readiness
Level (TRL) Scale
Fig. 12 NASA Technology Readiness Level (TRL) Scale. This scale describes the several phases of an
“Innovative Technology and Systems Development Process”.
improve evaluation of the impact of advances in fundamental scientific knowledge over the development of
innovative technology solutions and systems architectures (Bottom–Up approach)
improve assessment of the Science-Engineering Data, Information and Knowledge needed to accomplish
each step (from TRL 1 to TRL 9) and to transition in a successful way from a step to the next one and of the
effectiveness of applied analysis methodologies and techniques.
improve assessments of what information can be get by using existing analytical theories, computational
models and experimental & testing techniques, and what not.
improve identification of the needed development paths in analytical theories, computational models, and
experimental & testing techniques and what mix of resources (theories, modeling & simulation, experimental
& testing techniques) are needed to develop the envisaged system, sub-systems and components.
Improve Organization of Information/Knowledge inside each TRL Phase in such a way as to make it
directly and comprehensively usable and applicable in the next one along the scale.
From a general standpoint, as far as the Innovative Technology and Systems Development Process is concerned,
two development lines or Strategies are, normally, followed :
a) Bottom–Up: the starting point is progress in innovative technologies and devices and components
(advances can be real or hypothesized). Models of New Technologies, Engineering, Manufacturing and
Operational Solutions are developed using the IMSE Framework
b) Top- Down: more ambitious operational and performance requirements to be met represent the starting
point. In several cases “Inverse Simulations” can be too complex. A possible solution is to apply a simpler
Analysis of Alternatives (AoA): a set of Simulations can assess how and to what extent new technologies
and innovative engineering and manufacturing solutions can affect macro dynamics and performance.
To accomplish the previously quoted tasks, we can use the full methodological and theoretical apparatus of the
“Integrated Strategic Multiscale Science-Engineering Framework” to build a “Virtual Strategic Multiscale
Space-Time Machine” or “Virtual Strategic Multiscale Innovative Technology and Systems Development
Framework” The term “Virtual” means that:
A model of the planned system and the operational environment (and of the hierarchy of sub-systems,
components, devices and materials) is developed using available data, information and knowledge that are
being organized using the “Strategic Multiscale Science - Engineering Data, Information and Knowledge
Management System”. Information are being progressively updated and improved as we transition (in the
real world) from one phase to another one in an incremental way. Several alternatives can be taken into
account.
A model of the R&D, Engineering/Manufacturing and Systems Development Process (Designing the R&D,
Engineering/Manufacturing and Systems Development Process) is built. The Model is progressively updated
(see Paragraph 2.3.6). At the starting date, it is advisable to use simplified models
As we proceed in the real world through the whole spectrum of Innovative Technology and Systems
Development Phases (along the TRL chain), data become available from experimentation, characterization and
testing techniques. Accordingly, a progressive refinement and improvement of models and System Architecture
become possible. “Virtual Analyses” can proceed following two strategies:
“top-down” (from a complex system and its operational environment to its constituents): requirements are
set for a system at a certain scale (access scale) and the analysis is performed for a set of hypothetic systems
(several hypothesis are taken into account and modeled) considering the scales which are under the one for
which requirements (and accordingly levels of performance) are being set
“bottom-up” (from fundamentals to a complex structure and its operational environment): several
hypotheses are formulated about the architecture of the system for scales over the initial scale taken into
account. Models are developed. The analysis proceeds by evaluating how and to what extent performance
and properties calculated and or measured at a certain scale (nano scale, for instance) influence dynamics
and architecture/structure at the scale immediately higher (micro scale, for instance) and so on.
This kind of approach is instrumental to build technology roadmaps and innovative technology development
plans
The approaches can be interactively and iteratively combined. Several different technological, engineering and
operational scenarios can be taken into account and evaluated (What if Strategy). Sensitivity Analyses can also
be carried out.
A critical issue is that present innovative technology development strategies are, in several cases, not fully able
to assess the (multiscale Science-Engineering) information needed to develop, validate, and integrate key
technologies in more complex systems. Present innovative technology development strategies are not fully
“information-driven” or, to better say, Multiscale Science-Engineering Information-driven.
The “Multiscale Science-Engineering Information Space” and the Modeling & Simulation as “Knowledge
Integrators and Multipliers” concepts and methods allow us to define, besides the classical Technology
Roadmaps, new Integrated Strategic Multiscale Science-Engineering Information-Driven Theoretical and
Methodological (computational, Experimental, Characterization, Testing and Sensing) Roadmaps which
enable researchers, designers and managers to jointly identify critical scientific and engineering resources
needed to develop innovative technological systems and shape more effective university-research-industry
cooperative scenarios inside a unified and coherent conceptual context.
Roadmaps of computational methodologies are being already drafted, but they are not fully “Information-
Driven” and, normally, not comprehensively integrated with Experimental, Characterization, Testing and
Sensing roadmaps. Computational and experimental & testing roadmaps are drafted separately without well-
defined links and interdependencies.
Said in other words, roadmaps do not comprehensively identify and specify what information at what level of
accuracy and fidelity is needed to reach new engineering and technological achievements and what information
at what level of accuracy and fidelity we can get from the new outlined models and methods. Or, at least that is
accomplished only or mainly at a qualitative level.
The “Strategic Value of this kind of approach is that it enables a more in-depth and timely
identification of the “Scientific and Engineering Critical Issues and Areas and their relationships and
interdependencies” in such a way as to allow for the definition of optimized and integrated science-
based (or Science-Engineering) strategies.
The Virtual Strategic Multiscale Innovative Technology and Systems Development Framework
runs over the Strategic Multiscale Science – Engineering Knowledge Integrator and Multiplier
Computing, Information and Communication Framework (paragraph 3.3).
These “Virtual Systems” can run on the previously quoted “Strategic Multiscale Computational Science-
Engineering Knowledge Integrator and Multiplier Centers” and inside Centers which can be referred to as
“”Decision and Design Centers” [there is a clear reference to the Arizona State University Decision Theater].
These Centers are tasked with the Planning, Design and Implementation of Industrial Facilities, Large Scale
Industrial Systems (see the “Extended Enterprise Concept”) and Large Scale Integrated Industrial, Civil,
Infrastructural, Socio-Economic, Agricultural and Ecological Systems.
We consider now two important extensions of the capabilities of the previously described Virtual Environments:
A) Integration with Data (any kind) that may be collected from the field with the Mathematical Models,
Data Analytics and Artificial Intelligence Tools.
This kind of integration allows for the development of new monitoring, control and management strategies of
industrial, civil, infrastructural and environmental systems during all the phases of the construction period and
the Operational Life. This Strategy enables the evaluation of technological systems effectiveness in a wide
range of nominal and off-nominal operational conditions. Two-way relationships and interdependencies between
civil, infrastructural and industrial systems, from one side, and ecological systems, from the other side, is an
important task to be dealt with. Furthermore, getting a constantly updated scenario vision by analyzing a wide
range of data (Fata Analytics and AI techniques) is of paramount importance to progressively and continuously
assess the results of plans and programs and to decide on future improvements and developments. This kind of
Integration con promote the design and development of a New Generation of Urban, Regional and Ecological
Systems.
This kind of Virtual Systems and Centers allows us to design a new Generation of “Adaptive
and Integrated Innovative Technology, Industrial, Socio-economic and Ecological Systems
Development and Implementation Strategies. The term “Adaptive” means that the information
continuously gathered from the field (during the whole Life Cycle) and inserted inside
Strategic Multiscale Science – Engineering Models represent a very important basis to
conceive, design, develop and implement new science-based technological, engineering,
manufacturing and system solutions. Data Analytics, Machine Learning and Artificial
Intelligence Technique, Methods and Tools are applied and integrated with Strategic
Multiscale Models.
This kind of Virtual Environments has a “Strategic Value” in the “Societal Systems” Field because it
creates a “Cooperative and Integrated Environment” where the several “Actors” can assess:
a) the performance of the “Societal Systems” their components in a wide range of operational
conditions before the “System” is built
b) Identify “Societal Systems weaknesses and outline possible solutions. Data coming from citizens,
users, sensors which can be integrated inside the Virtual Environment. Simulations, can represent
a useful basis to devise new solutions to problems and the point out problem root causes
c) Plan Technological, Engineering, Manufacturing, and System Development Paths with respect to
specific Operational Target and, at the same time, evaluating a range of alternatives
A Key “Enabling System and Resource” for a New Generation of Decision Support Systems
(DSS).
A “Focal Point” and “Key Tool” for “Living Labs” and “Technological and Industrial Incubators”
A New Generation of “Integrated Cooperative Environments” for all the “ Societal System
Actors” working together with the new Strategic Multiscale Science-Based Education,
Information and Communication Frameworks (se the “Integrated Strategic Multiscale Science
Based Education, Training, Information And Communication Framework and the related White
Book)
A Basic Element to devise and set up cooperations among Cities, Public (Local/regional,
National and Transnational) (Regional, National and Transnational) Entities
A Reference Environment (Citizens, Industry, Politicians, Public Officers) to test achieved results
and devise and plan new products and solutions
The Virtual Strategic Multiscale Innovative Technology and Systems Development Framework runs
over the Strategic Multiscale Science – Engineering Knowledge Integrator and Multiplier Computing,
Information and Communication Framework (Paragraph 3.3). They represent a key Strategic
Resource of the Virtual Strategic Multiscale Science – Engineering – Society Knowledge Integrator
and Multiplier Centers (Paragraph 3.4)
NOTE: the following article has been downloaded from Research Gate
Multiscale whole-systems design and analysis of CO2 capture and transport networks
Niall Mac Dowell, Ahmed Alhajaj, Murthy Konda and Nilay Shah
Centre for Process Systems Engineering, Department of Chemical Engineering, Imperial College, London SW7 2AZ, UK
Abstract
In this contribution, we present an integrated whole-systems approach to the design and analysis of CO2 capture, transport
and storage networks. This approach is multiscale in nature, and comprises a number of scale-specific models spanning
from the molecular to the process and finally to the network scale. At the smallest scale, detailed molecular models of the
solvents used to capture CO2 are developed with a state-of-the-art equation of state, SAFT-VR1. These thermodynamic
models are used to describe the thermophysical properties and phase behaviour of the complex fluids which are typically
used for CO2 capture 2,3. he molecular models are integrated with a rate-based model of an amine-based CO2 capture
process 4,5, which is implemented in the gPROMS modelling environment. These models are used to determine the cost-
optimal degree of capture (DOC) for a given CO2 emission source. Then, the outputs of the process models are in turn
used as inputs to a spatially and temporally explicit MILP model of the network model which is implemented in the GAMS
modelling environment. This model is then used to determine how much CO2 should be removed from a given source in
order to achieve a pre-specified reduction in CO2 emissions for a given geographical area. This approach then allows us to
comment on the economic feasibility of achieving these aims and provides us with a mechanism for providing high-level
direction on CO2 emission reduction targets.
Keywords: Multiscale modelling, CO2 capture, Network design
1. Introduction
The UK has, in accordance with IPCC guidelines 6, recently implemented ambitious CO2 mitigation targets 7 – it is
intended to reduce anthropogenic CO2 emissions from the UK by 80% by 2050 8. The deployment of CO2 capture and
transport (CCT) technology on this scale is an extremely expensive proposition, and it is necessary that CCT networks be
future-proofed in their design and lifetime cost-optimal. A typical CCT network comprises a number of CO2 sources and a
number of potential CO2 storage sites, or sinks. The source-sink relationships may be extremely complex in terms of the
proximity of a given source to an appropriate sink of sufficient capacity. Further, it is important to account for the evolution
of CCT networks by accounting for the gradual incorporation of additional sources and sinks into the network in such a
way as to minimise the total lifetime cost whilst complying with CO2 emission mitigation goals. Thus a comprehensive
framework that is both spatially and temporally explicit is required for the design of these systems. The dynamic aspect of
the proposed models is of paramount importance, especially within the context of future energy-related networks design.
For example, a recent study9 has revealed the long-term prospects of hydrogen in the transport sector using a detailed
spatio-temporal framework, which could not have been identified with static models. To this end, we present an approach
wherein we integrate rate-based models of amine-based CO2 chemisorption processes 4,5 with a spatio-temporally explicit
approach for network modelling10. Using the process models, we determine a cost-optimal degree-of-capture (DOC) for a
given source. The results of the process-scale models are then used as inputs to the network-scale models, and in this way,
the CO2 transport network is designed with the overall objective of minimising total lifetime costs. In performing this
work, we use a model of a CO2 capture process based on a 30wt% monoethanolamine (MEA) solvent as a benchmark for
the capture process. Subsequently, using state of the art approaches for modelling the complex fluids used in CO2 capture
processes2,3. Since the future emission reduction targets, improvements in capture processes, sink availability and
capacity, and injection rates are uncertain, a detailed stochastic analysis is an integral part of our framework. The proposed
methodology is generic, and is equally applicable to any geographic region.
A system-wide analysis of this CCS infrastructure is very useful in helping to answer a number of strategic questions,
including:
Early work in this area includes a deterministic optimisation model to design value chains for Norway 1 and the United
Arab Emirates 15. In both cases, a mathematical model is used to connect sources and sinks, design pipelines and establish
CO2 flow rates in the network, and evaluate system costs. More sophisticated techniques will need to use optimisation
under uncertainty. Two useful approaches in this field are multistage stochastic optimisation and real options. In both cases
the key concept is that early stage decisions must be firm, while future decisions are contingent on new information
available in the future and do not need to be committed immediately. The link between the firm early stage decisions and
the uncertainty dependent future decisions ensures that the early stage decisions are robust with respect to future outcomes.
An example of this approach 16 considers the use of real options rather than standard discounted cash flow models to
determine if and when to invest in different technological options.
In the next section we describe how we integrate validated thermodynamic and rate based models of CO2 capture processes
with a spatio-temporally explicit model of a CO2 transport and storage network, and present some preliminary results from
a case study performed on a region of the United Arab Emirates.
3. Methodology and Preliminary results
3.1. Problem description
In order to demonstrate the applicability our approach, we consider a case study of the United Arab Emirates 17. The UAE
is a particularly energy intensive country, with the majority of their energy coming from fossil fuel combustion. The UAE
is also home to several energy intensive industries, including cement and fertilizer manufacture. The total cumulative CO2
emissions of this region are 90 MT/yr of which 23.5MT/yr are accounted in this study. The cost-optimal design of CO2
capture, transport and storage networks is therefore of significant importance in the UAE. The example problem we set out
to solve was: if we want to reduce the CO2 emissions from the UAE by 5MT/yr by 2015 and by 20Mt/yr by 2020,
is appropriate for each source?
Figure 2: CCS-relevant region of UAE, comprising eleven different CO2 sources and six potential CO2 sinks
Figure 3: Results of the network design exercise. Two distinct periods of infrastructure deployments are required in order to
achieve the specified mitigation targets, T1 and T2, before and after 2015 respectively. Black lines represent pipeline links
established in T1 and red lines represent pipeline links established in T2. Thin lines represent pipelines of capacity 1-10
Mt/Yr while thick lines represent larger pipelines of capacity in the range 10-25 Mt/yr.
The cost-optimality of the network topology was ensured by minimizing the following objective function: where CAPEX
is capital expenditure, CRF is the capital recovery factor and OPEX is the operational expenditure. The CRF was assumed
to be 15%. There are several noteworthy features of the optimal network topology. Most conspicuously, it is apparent from
Figure 3 that it is not necessary to capture CO2 from all the point-sources in order to achieve the specified mitigation target,
nor is it necessary to exploit all of the existing storage capacity. Further, it can be observed from Figure 3 that two separate
tranches of infrastructure deployment are required to achieve the required CO2 abatement target.
4. Conclusions and future challenges
A novel methodology for the integrated design of CO2 capture, transport and storage networks has been developed and
applied to a region of the United Arab Emirates. The success of this approach relies on the tight integration of a series of
scale-specific, high fidelity models. We have found that it is not necessarily appropriate to capture CO2 from all available
sources in order to achieve a pre-specified emission reduction. Policy formulation should reflect this, and a strategy to share
costs across all regional emitters should be devised. Future work in this area will incorporate whole-systems optimisation of
the capture process model, the results of detailed pipeline modelling in order to avoid potential phase transitions, examining
the effect of changes on the molecular scale on the performance on the network scale. At the capture process scale, we plan
to examine the effect of using a range of different amine solvents on the behaviour and performance of the capture process.
In this way, we aim to obtain an insight into the long-term effects of technological advances at the level of the CO2 capture
process on the operation of the CO2 transport network
5. Acknowledgements
N.M.D. thanks the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) of the UK for funding a post-doctoral research grant
(Grant number: NE/H01392X/1).
References
1. A. Gil-Villegas et al, J. Chem. Phys., 106, (1997), 4168-4186
2. N. Mac Dowell et al., Ind. Eng. Chem. Res., 2010, 49, 1883–1899.
3. N. Mac Dowell et al., J. Phys. Chem. B., 2010 (Accepted)
4. N. Mac Dowell et al., in Proc. European Symp. Computer Aided Process Engineering (ESCAPE-20) ed S. Pierucci and
G. Buzzi Ferraris, Elsevier, Amsterdam, The Netherlands, 2010, ch Integrated solvent and process design for the reactive
separation of CO2 from flue gas, pp 1231-1236
5. N. Mac Dowell et al., Comp. Aided Chem. Eng., Volume 28, 2010, Pages 1231-1236
6. Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), Climate Change 2001:Synthesis report. Cambridge University
Press, Cambridge, UK, 2001
7. http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/legislation/cc_act_08/cc_act_08.aspx
8. http://www.theccc.org.uk/
9. N. V. S. N. M., Konda et al., PSE Asia 2010, Singapore, 201010. N. V. S. N. M., Konda et al., HYPOTHESIS VIII,
Lisbon, Portugal, 2009
11. C. C. Pantelides, in Proc. European Symp. Computer Aided Process Engineering (ESCAPE-11), ed. Rafiqul Gani and
Sten Bay Jørgensen, Elsevier, Amsterdam, The Netherlands, 2001, ch. New challenges and opportunities for process
modelling, pp. 15–26
12. J. C. Charpentier and T. F. McKenna, Chem. Eng. Sci., 2004, 59, 1617–1640.
13. N. Mac Dowell et al., Energy & Environ. Sci, 2010, 3, 1645-1669
14. A. Tomasgard et al., Proc. 5th Trondheim Conference on CO2 capture, transport and storage, Trondheim, June, 2009,
2009.
15. A. Alhajaj, MSc thesis, Imperial College London, 2008.
16. W. Zhou, et al., Appl. Energy, 2010, 87, 2392–2400
17. A. Alhajaj et al., AIChE Annual meeting, 2010
18. Rao, A. B. and Rubin, E. S., Ind. Eng. Chem. Res., 2006, 45, 2421-2429
19. N. V. S. N. M., Konda et al., Int. J. Hydrogen Energy, 2010 (Submitted)
This Framework is based upon three Cyber - Physical Environments and it is implemented inside a “Strategic
Multiscale Digital Twin”
Strategic Multiscale Multidisciplinary Science - Engineering Society (Earth and Space Based or
“From Space To Earth) Framework (Paragraph 3.2)
Strategic Multiscale Science-Engineering-Society Knowledge Integrator and Multiplier
Computing, Information and Communication (CIC) Infrastructural Framework (Paragraph 3.3)
which synergistically integrates, thanks to the new Strategic Multiscale Vision and
Conceptual/Methodological context, a wide spectrum of Theoretical, Experimental, Testing, Space,
Aero and Earth – based Sensing Systems, inside a unified Theoretical and Application Context as to
enable a continuous and well-coordinated exchange of new knowledge and advances.
“Virtual Strategic Multiscale Science - Engineering – Society (or Science – Based) Space Station”.
which plays the role of Central Node of the previously quoted “Multiscale Multidisciplinary Science –
Engineering – Society From Space to Earth Cyber Enterprise” Cooperative Environment. International
Space Station (ISS), as the first and only continuously inhabited place outside Earth can be regarded as
the historical “Symbol” and precursor of the New Integrated From Space to Earth Vision and Facility.
The “Virtual Strategic Multiscale Science – Engineering- Society Space Station is the Next Step and
Frontier. The real ISS can be related to the Virtual facility and play an important role in this Vision.
We have already pointed out that any kind of Civil, Infrastructural, Ecological, Socio-Economic and Industrial
System, are complex systems linked to complex processes developing over a wide range of space and time
scales (Environment and Transportation are two classical examples.. Systems and Processes are characterized by
a large number of heterogeneous spatial components, nonlinear interactions, emergence, self-organization,
adaptation and dynamics through a spectrum of time and spatial scale. Natural and Technological Complex
Systems exhibit distinctive patterns and features associated to different processes at different scales. It is
important to reveal and analyze phenomena inside a scale and among different scales. For this reason we can
pursue the creation of Hierarchical Sensing Systems able to perform Monitoring (Space, Air, Field) which
should take into account the inherent hierarchical organization of the Natural and Technological System and its
multiscale evolution for the whole range of operational conditions: nominal and off-nominal (extreme events,
accidents). A key goal of any monitoring and analysis process is to understand how processes occurring over a
full spectrum of space and time scales influence each other to get a “holistic” view of Systems Dynamics.
Scale has been recognized as a key component for understanding the structure and the space-time dynamics of
Systems distributed over large and very large areas. Two key issues are to be addressed: the scale and scaling
problem. The former refers to identifying the ‘natural’ or preferred scale(s) at which operational patterns and
processes occur, while the later refers to deriving appropriate rules for transferring data or information across
scales .
An integration of various sources of information and synthesis of diverse approaches is required to study
multiscale features that are the product of coexistence, hierarchy, complexity, chaos, and in some cases, self-
organization. Understanding the interrelationships between physical, chemical, and biological factors at different
scales is essential for research in agriculture, engineering, hydrology, and the environment.
Results from Sensing Systems should be integrated with Laboratory Experimentation and with Multiscale
Modeling acting as “Knowledge Integrator and Multiplier”
We can perform this Tasks from a privileged “Monitoring, Integration and Analysis” Location: From the
“Space”. In our case from a “Virtual Space”.
The real Space Station is the only inhabited System from which it is possible to see dynamics of Human, Civil
and Infrastructural Systems in an integrated way.
New Information, Communication and Computing Technologies and Strategic Multiscale Methodologies
allow us to build a “Virtual Strategic Multiscale Science-Based Space Station” (or Virtual Strategic
Multiscale Science-Engineering-Society Knowledge Integrator and Multiplier Space Station) .
“ Virtual Strategic Multiscale Science – Based Space Station” is a Cyber Environment which plays the
role of “Strategic Multiscale Science - Engineering - Knowledge Integrator and Multiplier”
Center made it possible by the “Multiscale Modeling and Simulation as Knowledge Integrators and
Multipliers” concept.
“Virtual Strategic Multiscale Science – Based Space Station as “Strategic Multiscale Science - Engineering –
Society Knowledge Integrator and Multiplier” Center fosters a more timely, integrated and effective
application of the most advanced scientific achievements coming from Space and Earth. The knowledge get by
a combined use of a full spectrum of scientific, engineering and operational theoretical, computational,
experimental, Sensing and testing models and techniques, in the context of a multiscale analysis scheme,
allows us to build an interlinked hierarchy of analytical and computational (classical, agent – based,….) models
at different levels of abstraction and fidelity to be applied to a wide range of tasks according to a global strategy.
It is of fundamental relevance to connect Space Systems with Scientific Centers and Experimental
Facilities in order to get an in depth understanding of phenomena monitored and analyzed by
Satellites (and other Aero Systems): understanding Medium and Large Scale
Phenomena/Processes is also linked to understand basic phenomena not directly resolved From
Space. The “Integrated Multiscale Science-Engineering (IMSE) Framework” is a suitable basis to
realize this integration.
In the context of the Virtual Strategic Multiscale Science - Engineering - Society From Space to
Earth Framework, Space can be regarded as the “Catalyst” of a New Cultural Policy based
upon a “Multiscale Multidisciplinary Science–Engineering Integration” Framework to address
key issues for the Future of Earth and the Future of Earth in Space.
Space is also the most striking Symbol of a major Integration Stream: Globalization. Space is
the only place where all the complex Earth economic, social, environmental and health
problems and issues can be appreciated and evaluated as a “Single Process”
The “Virtual Strategic Multiscale Science – Based Station” can be considered as an innovative
important concept, tool and resource and a new step forward in the “Geospatial Intelligence” Field and
in the utilization of “Space” to deal with Global Problems. The cloud-based Geospatial Intelligence
Broker Platform to be developed by BlackSky is a very interested step along this path. The following
box reports the announcement of the US AFRL related contract
Spaceflight Industries has announced that BlackSky has been awarded a two-year $16.4 million cost-plus-
prime contract with the Air Force Research Lab to develop and deliver a cloud-based geospatial intelligence
broker platform. The brokering platform will provide on-demand analytics, collection, and information
services from global data sources. "BlackSky is proud to have the opportunity to partner with the Air Force
and U.S.
Government stakeholders on the development of leading-edge anticipatory analytics and commercial
GEOINT brokering capabilities," said Brian O'Toole, executive vice president and chief technology officer of
BlackSky. "Easy access and streamlined delivery of timely and relevant insights about our changing world
is essential to faster and more informed decision making. The BlackSky platform combined with our world-
class solutions team is proving to be a key enabler for accelerating our customers' success."
The BlackSky Geospatial Solutions team brings extensive expertise in geospatial intelligence, commercial
remote sensing, cloud-based architectures, geospatial analysis, and machine learning to help customers
harness the power of global data sources to gain improved situational awareness and actionable intelligence.
BlackSky is a division of Seattle WA-based Spaceflight Industries and serves government and private sector
organizations with solutions enabled by the BlackSky platform. Within the platform, users can access
BlackSky Spectra's on-demand imagery service to search, purchase, task, and download visual imagery and
multi-spectral data from a global collection network. They can also subscribe to BlackSky Events, the
platform's global event monitoring service that fuses news, social media, industry data services and physical
sensor networks to provide early warning and insights on risks, threats, and opportunities that can impact
their business.
This new kind of Center offers scientists, researchers, public and private managers, politicians and citizens a
“unified context” to better understand the complex pattern of relationships and interdependencies (over a World
Scale) among civil, agricultural and infrastructural (transport, energy, industrial plants, communication,….)
systems and health, safety, environmental and climatological issues and challenges (sustainable development).
The new Center synthesizes widely scattered efforts and allows to forge more effective “unified strategies” to
deal with tightly interrelated problems of increasing complexities
Multiscale is a general term. Multiscale means, usually “Multiscale Multiresolution Multiphysics”. Multiscale
embodies as special case classical “Single Scale” methods. The selection of the scales (and inside a scale of the
resolution levels) depends on the specific task to be addressed and the characteristics of the “System” taken into
account (not in all the cases we have to go down to the Schrodinger equation). When we remain inside a “Single
Scale”, as already highlighted, we use the term “Multiresolution”. This situation occurs, for instance, when we
deal with “Systems of Systems” or when we design/analyze the dynamics of “Complex Systems” made up by a
set of sub-systems and components. Just the capabilities of the Multiscale methodology to embody a wide
spectrum of different methods and approaches allow us to regard it as a “Unifying Paradigm”.
“Integration Streams” already characterize Space activities and strategies particularly in the Earth Monitoring,
Meteorology, and Disasters Mitigation, Response and Relief. Multiscale Modeling is applied inside several
Space Projects. The “Multiscale Modeling and Simulation as Knowledge Integrators and Multipliers” and the
Multiscale Map concepts can give an important boost to this process and it allows to foster integration between:
Scientific, Engineering and Operational analyses dealing with an extremely wide range of space and time
scales
Experimentation, Testing and Sensing Data, Information and Knowledge (multi–way transfer)
The whole spectrum of scientific and engineering methodologies (theory, computation, experimentation,
testing and sensing)
The term “Integrated” means three Integration Streams:
Multiscale Multiresolution Space and Time Integration
“Sensing Systems - Experimental Facilities” Integration and “Sensing Systems – Experimental Facilities –
Computational and Theoretical Centers” Integration. The growing complexity of the Networks of Physical,
Biochemical, Ecological, Industrial, Urbanization, Socio-Economic,….. Phenomena and Processes to be
Monitored calls for Integrated Data Analysis and Interpretation Strategies which can be carried out by
Multiscale Multidisciplinary Computational Models acting as “Knowledge Integrators and Multipliers”.
Multiscale Multidisciplinary Models integrate and Fuse Data from a wide range of sources (Sensing
Systems and Laboratory Facilities) to turn a “Tsunami” of Data into useful Knowledge. It should be taken
into account that more Data does not necessarily means more Information and Knowledge.
The Strategic Multiscale Framework enables a new kind of “Integrated Space-Time” approach to
environmental and pollution issues related to the design and operation of “Industrial and Societal Systems”.
“Integrated Space-Time” approach means that in this new methodological and conceptual context, we can
link together inside a unified context data, information, knowledge and models which characterize the three
fundamental phases which characterize the pollution process :
Generation Phase (generation of pollutants inside a technological system)
Transportation/Diffusion Phase through different media (air, water, land)
Interaction or Biomedical Phase (interaction with biological systems (human body included)
The “Virtual Multiscale Science-Based Knowledge Integrator and Multiplier Space Station ” is a “Symbol” of
a new way to address some of the most striking and critical (often interrelated) issues which condition the
future of Urban Systems: Sustainable Civil and Industrial Development and Implementation (Environmental and
Climatological Issues), Global Health, a new generation of Civil, Agricultural and Infrastructural Systems
characterized by higher levels of safety, security, operational and energetic efficiency and adaptability to a wider
spectrum of conditions including the extreme ones.
The “Virtual Strategic Multiscale Science-based Space Station can become the “Symbol” of a
new way to design innovative technologies, engineering, socio-economic and operational
solutions for Earth in a context of an ever more “Globalized” World
Strategic Multiscale Multidisciplinary Science – Engineering - Society Integration and the new
previously described Environments, can give Space the “Mark” of A New Frontier For A New
Alliance Science - Engineering – Society to effectively address Mankind Challenges on Earth
and in Space
In the Strategic Multiscale perspective, Space plays a special role as “Integration Element”
because it is at the Top of the Hierarchy of Space and Time Scales which rule any Earth, Human,
Natural and Technological phenomena and processes and their relationships and interdependencies.
“Virtual Strategic Multiscale Science – Engineering – Society Space Station” integrates in a “Big
Picture” observations, analyses and models.
Integrated Multiscale Monitoring Systems and Projects are already underway (GEOSS is an example). The
Multiscale Hierarchy we propose foresees a tight integration not only among Satellite, Aerial and Local Sensing
Systems, but also among these Systems and Micro and Nano Field Sensors and Experimental Facilities probing
phenomena and processes at the Micro/Nano and Quantum scales. Analysis of complex physical and
biochemical phenomena and processes at local, medium and large scales increasingly calls for Micro/Nano and
Quantum knowledge. To accomplish the previously described analysis and monitoring activities we can devise a
special set of Strategic Multiscale Maps:
A) Multiscale Industrial/Civil/Infrastructural - Environmental – Socio-Economic Systems Structural
Maps (see Paragraph 3.2) which describe the Architecture/Structure, Interconnections and the Dynamics of
Industrial/Civil/Infrastructural, Socio-Economic, Environmental Systems to be analyzed and monitored at
several levels of resolution, scale and detail according to specific tasks and objectives.
B) Multiscale Monitoring From Space To Earth System Maps which describe the network (Space, Air,
Ground and Underground, Water) of monitoring systems, their interconnections and data flows from a wide
range of phenomena and processes. The Maps highlight also the “Information Potential” of the Monitoring
Systems; that means what kind of phenomena and processes at what space and time resolutions and scales
and at what level of accuracy and reliability can be monitored over a spectrum of operational conditions.
C) Multiscale Ecological Urban, industrial, Agricultural, Infrastructural Systems (any level of the
hierarchy) – Environmental Systems Impact Maps Theses Maps represent a new “Generation” of Maps
specifically conceived to evaluate the impact (all the typologies: pollutants, heat, waste,…) on the
Environment of Civil and Infrastructural “Systems” for a wide range of operational conditions (including the
extreme and accidental ones) and design solutions. Maps describe relationships among Civil and
Infrastructural “Systems”, Operational Modes and related Environmental Impact (any kind). Specific
“Multiscale Bio-Chemical and Physical Maps” describe the spectrum of physical, chemical and
biochemical phenomena and processes characterizing the interactions among Civil, Infrastructural,
Industrial, Socio-Economic Systems and Environmental Systems for a wide range of geographic scales and
over multiple time scales.
The previously described Maps are interrelated. Maps are hierarchically structured.
A general Strategy based upon the “Integrated (Strategic) Multiscale Multidisciplinary Science-Engineering
(IMSE) Framework“ rests on the following issues and steps:
1) identifying the spectrum of phenomena and processes underlying the dynamics of the systems to be
monitored over a range of space and time scales and resolution levels [Strategic Multiscale Knowledge
Maps]
2) identifying relationships and interdependencies between phenomena and processes at the different space and
time scales and resolution levels [Strategic Multiscale Knowledge Maps]
3) identifying key variables to be monitored and/or controlled over the previously defined range of scales and
resolution levels, and at what level of accuracy and reliability [Strategic Multiscale Knowledge Maps]
4) devising a strategy to select the right type of Sensing and data collection systems [Strategic Multiscale
Science – Engineering Information Space and Information – Driven Strategies] to monitor the previously
identified key variables over the right range of space and time scales at a well-defined degree of accuracy
and reliability.
Note : Strategic Multiscale and Information driven Analysis Schemes are well suited to carry out these tasks
5) designing a field monitoring system architecture at all the selected space and time scales and resolution
levels. This task call for a set of specific sub-tasks :
identification of what specific Sensing and Data Collection Systems are suited to monitor and analyze
specific phenomena and processes (information driven analysis)
identification of the places where sensors are to be installed
definition of an overall monitoring architecture and related operational modes
definition of the characteristics of the models to be used to analyze and fuse field data and implement
control schemes
identification of data/information to be used for R&D and Engineering activities external to the field
environment, but related to it
the previous sub-tasks allow to define requirements to be met by the Computing, Information and
Communication (CIC) Technology Infrastructure (HW and SW)
Note : Information get from the items 1) – 2) and 3) is fundamental to perform the previous task (-4) and all the
related sub-tasks. Specific tools and environments should be developed. to this purpose
Note : Information get from the items 1) – 2) and 3) is also fundamental to
6) devising a strategy to integrate fields data and information with laboratory experimental & testing
systems and theory and computational models
7) defining a suitable mix of field sensors and experimental (laboratory) techniques and methods at all the
scales and integrate them in order to improve the knowledge about the dynamics of the (natural,
technological, socio-economic) system under observation and analysis
8) defining a general “integration strategy” which allows to link together all the previously quoted items
inside a coherent and comprehensive context
Tools, concepts and methods (Hierarchies, Map, Science-Engineering Information Space, Strategic Multiscale
Science-Engineering Data Analysis Schemes, Information Driven strategies,…..) are better suited than existing
methodologies to both take advantage of progress in CIC technologies and effectively address complexity of the
systems to be monitored and analyzed.
Virtual Strategic Multiscale Science – Based Knowledge Integrator and Multiplier Space Station is an
important component of the “Strategic Multiscale Science – Based Education, Information and
Communication” Framework (see Chapter 4) in order to:
Describe people in a comprehensive and understandable way the meaning, the relevance of the
“Globalization Issues”, the impact on their “Life” and what solutions can be designed and
implemented : the strategic objective is to shape inside the population a “Globalization Culture” which is
a fundamental basis to support rational and not emotional reaction to this “Process”
Create a New Generation of Professionals (any sector) and Politicians who are fully aware of the
scientific, technological and engineering resources needed to deal in an effective way with the
“Globalization Issues” and of the absolute need to conceive specific related “Science – Based” Projects
and Programs and to win a “Informed Citizens Consensus” using all the means available in the
“Integrated Strategic Multiscale Science – Based Education, Information and Communication”
Framework
It is now widely recognized that landscapes are complex systems that are characterized by a large number of
heterogeneous spatial components, nonlinear interactions, emergence, self-organization, adaptation and
dynamics through a spectrum of time and spatial scale. A key goal of any monitoring and analysis process is to
understand how processes occurring over a full spectrum of space and time scales influence each other to get a
“holistic” view of Systems Dynamics. It is important to reveal and analyze phenomena inside a scale and among
different scales. For this reason we can pursue the creation of Sensing Systems able to perform Monitoring
(Space, Air, Field) should take into account the inherent hierarchical organization of the Natural and
Technological System and its multiscale evolution for the whole range of operational conditions: nominal and
off-nominal (extreme events, accidents).
Results from Sensing Systems should be integrated with Laboratory Experimentation and with Multiscale
Modeling acting as “Knowledge Integrator and Multiplier”. An integration of various sources of information and
synthesis of diverse approaches is required to study multiscale features that are the product of coexistence,
hierarchy, complexity, chaos, and in some cases, self-organization. Understanding the interrelationships between
physical, chemical, and biological factors at different scales is essential for research in agriculture, engineering,
hydrology, and the environment. The emergence of a more holistic approach may facilitate a better
understanding of both temporal and spatial variability.
A distinguishing feature of the Multiscale Science - Engineering From Space To Earth Framework will be the
design of Integrated Multiscale Monitoring Systems which take full advantage of new Nano and Micro Sensor
and Integrated Sensor & Processing (ISP) technologies.. Multiscale Multiresolution Monitoring is becoming an
increasingly important issue for the modern Society in order to reliably assess the impact (footprint) of all the
Human and Industrial activities over Ecosystems.
The term “Integrated” means three Integration Streams:
“Sensor Systems - Experimental Facilities” Integration and “Sensor Systems – Experimental Facilities –
Computational Centers” Integration. The growing complexity of the Networks of Physical and Biochemical
Phenomena and Processes to be Monitored calls for Integrated Data Analysis and Interpretation Strategies
which can be carried out by Multiscale Multidisciplinary Computational Models acting as “Knowledge
Integrators and Multipliers”. Multiscale Multidisciplinary Models integrate and Fuse Data from a wide
range of sources (Sensors and Laboratory Facilities) to turn a “Tsunami” of Data into useful Knowledge. It
should be taken into account that more Data does not necessarily means more Information and Knowledge.
Reference Strategic Multiscale Science- Engineering Monitoring and Data Analysis Strategy:
a) identify key variables to be monitored over a spectrum of scales and resolution levels, and at what level of
accuracy and reliability [Multiscale Knowledge Maps]
b) identify relationships and interdependencies between physical and bio-chemical phenomena and processes at
the different space and time scales and resolution levels [Multiscale Knowledge Maps]
c) devise a strategy to select the right type of sensors [Multiscale Science - Engineering Information Space
and Information – Driven strategies] to monitor the previously identified key variables over the right range
of space and time scales at a well-defined degree of accuracy and reliability.
d) define the monitoring systems architecture at all the scales and for all the media. [Multiscale Science –
Engineering Information Space, Multiscale Knowledge Maps]
e) define a strategy to integrate fields data and information with laboratory experimental systems, theory and
computational models
f) define a suitable mix of field sensors and experimental (laboratory) techniques and methods at all the scales
and integrate them in order to improve the knowledge about the dynamics of the (natural, technological,
natural-technological) system under observation and analysis
g) devise a general “integration strategy” which allows to link together all the previously quoted items inside a
coherent and comprehensive context
Note: “Multiscale Knowledge Maps” are described in detail inside the IMSE-TPPD document.
Key objectives for Integrated Multiscale Science - Engineering Frameworks are to:
Analyze the hierarchy (multilevel Network) of interlinked multiscale multiresolution multiphysics (physics,
chemistry and biochemistry) phenomena and processes which characterize the dynamics of the Ecosystem
over a full range of time scales (short, medium long term) also taking into account the uncertainty issue
Integrate Multiscale Multiresolution Multiphysics Data from a full spectrum of Space, Aerial, Sea (and
Under Sea), Surface and Sub Surface sensors
Integrate (Multiscale) Field Sensor Networks with Laboratory Experimental and Testing Facilities
Understand the complex pattern of two-way relationships and interdependencies between human activities,
infrastructures and the Ecosystem in particular, even if not exclusively, for extreme events and operational
conditions, accidents included (look at the BP case in the Gulf of Mexico).
The following Box is related to a National Institute of Standards and Technologies (NIST) Report which
highlights the need of new Multiscale Monitoring Strategies for a very critical issue: Greenhouse Gases
This kind of Monitoring and Analysis is of key relevance to evaluate the Impact of Pollutants on Humans Health
and the effects of disasters on the Environment
Effects of Hurricane Katrina on Southern Mississippi Coastal Forest and projected post –
Hurricane responses: A multiscale Evaluations
Research by Dr. John Kupfer - Department of Geography, University of South Carolina -
To better understand how Hurricane Katrina affected forested ecosystems in southern Mississippi and how these
ecosystems are likely to respond in the future, University of South Carolina researchers analyzed data on the
structure and composition of different forest community strata, conducted seed-bank germination trials,
estimated plant stress via productivity, chlorophyll and soil redox measures, and analyzed soils for a range of
edaphic characteristics. Researchers had three goals at the outset of this study: 1) Determine the effects of the
storm surge on coastal-zone soil chemistry 2) Estimate plant stress related to soil changes and storm damage via
measures of plant productivity, chlorophyll, and soil redox potential 3) Clarify the effects of forest structure,
composition, history, setting, and landscape context on wind-caused damage patterns
Researchers started out with an understanding that forest recovery after a natural disturbance is a function of the
effects of the disturbance on the existing community (e.g., survivorship and mortality), responses of surviving
individuals to changing and often stressful environmental conditions based on species-specific physiological
adaptations and life history traits, and germination and establishment of new individuals from the soil seed bank
or from seeds arriving from off-site sources. USC researchers initiated a multi-scale study that combines field-
based research, greenhouse studies, remote sensing and spatial analysis. Although their emphasis in the initial
phase of this study was on the direct impacts of the hurricane on forest ecosystems, the researchers actually
conducted two parallel studies. In coastal forests and salt marshes located around
St. Louis Bay, they performed repeat sampling of soils to examine the effects of the hurricane storm surge on
soil characteristics. Researchers will combine these analyses with measures of forest structure, damage, stress,
and productivity to be taken in 2006 to clarify the mechanical and chemical effects of storm surge on the
affected ecosystems. The second component of the study, conducted in nearby DeSoto National Forest, used pre-
and post-hurricane forest surveys and aerial photography to explore patterns and controls of wind-related forest
damage at scales ranging from individual trees to forest stands to entire forested landscapes. According to
researchers, this study was only a first step in understanding the resilience of coastal forests affected by
Hurricane Katrina, but several patterns have already emerged. Soil samples taken one month after the hurricane
showed substantially higher concentrations of sodium, phosphorous, magnesium, calcium and potassium, as well
as differences in pH, cation-exchange capacity, and nitrogen in storm-surged areas. Researchers reported that
soils in areas with hydric soils (i.e., floodplains) have been responding differently since the hurricane from non-
hydric soils, presumably because of different rates of leaching and other ecological processes. The study of wind
damage is ongoing, but USC researchers have linked patterns of damage severity to both broad-scale controls,
especially proximity to the hurricane’s eye (a surrogate for wind speed), and stand-level characteristics,
including stand structure and history (e.g., logging history), topography (e.g., floodplain vs. slope or ridge top
locations) and composition (e.g., pine vs. hardwood components). Researchers also reconstructed patterns and
directions of severe winds using ground surveys and aerial photographs taken shortly after the hurricane. These
reconstructions will be used to develop and validate models of surface wind flow patterns and predict
susceptibility of forests to future hurricanes. Forest damage from Hurricane Katrina was caused by high winds,
with wind gusts exceeding 100 mph as far as 100 miles inland, and hurricane storm surge, which exceeded 30
feet along much of the Mississippi coastline and penetrated more than three miles inland in some places. The
effects of the storm surge on coastal ecosystems included mechanical damage from wave force, effects of salt
spray deposited on forest canopies above the high-water mark, and chemical alterations of the soil that can
adversely affect coastal forests in a number of ways. High winds damaged or destroyed billions of dollars of
timber on 5 million acres in Mississippi, Alabama and Louisiana. Inventories indicate that one-third of the
timber damaged was concentrated in eight counties in southern Mississippi. As part of a graduate seminar, 10
USC graduate students accompanied Dr. Kupfer and researchers from the University of Memphis on a data
collection trip to southern Mississippi in February 2006. The USC students helped analyze data gathered on this
trip and prepare manuscripts for publication in refereed journals. This project created collaborations among three
universities with strong research interests in coastal ecology, including the University of Southern Mississippi,
which was damaged by Hurricane Katrina and lost its Gulf Coast campus. It has also fostered collaborations
between the USC Geography Department and forest managers at De Soto National Forest.
Results from this project are being disseminated to both peer-reviewed professional journals as well as more
general readership outlets. Researchers are also collaborating with the research group headed by Drs. Fletcher
and Porter on joint projects related to coastal zone ecosystem recovery and monitoring. Researchers hope that
the study will provide insights on forest susceptibility to hurricanes that might help to guide forest management,
both before and after future events, in hurricane-prone areas.
On a personal note, Dr. Kupfer said that he has worked in other areas affected by natural catastrophes such as
wildfire, but nothing could have prepared him for what he saw along the Mississippi coastline. Nonetheless,
during his time working there, he said he was witness to the resilience of both the people and ecosystems of
southern Mississippi.
Comment:
Items 1), 2) and 3) refer to the Sensing Techniques Hierarchical (Multiscale/Multiresolution)
and Horizontal (Multi Source) Integration
Item 4) refers to what can be called “ Science – Engineering – Operation” Integration Issue
Item 5) refers to the “Data – Modeling – Sensing” Integration Issue
Items 6) and 8) refer to the “Management Coordination/Integration and Standardization” Issue
Item 7) refers to the “Disciplinary” Integration Issue
The “Virtual Strategic Multiscale Science-Based Space Station and the “Integrated Strategic
Multiscale Multidisciplinary Science – Engineering From Space to Earth Cyber Framework” Concept
can be new context where Earth Observation/Monitoring Strategies can be planned and implemented.
The above quoted Report analyze the need of new Integrated Multiscale Measurement Technologies and
Strategies: From Space To Earth
The continuing increase in the level of carbon dioxide and other "greenhouse gases" in the Earth's atmosphere
has been identified as a cause for serious concern because it may radically accelerate changes in the Earth's
climate. Developing an effective strategy for managing the planet's greenhouse gases is complicated by the many
and varied sources of such gases, some natural, some man-made, as well as the mechanisms that capture and
"sequester" the gases. A new report sponsored by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)
focuses on one of the key challenges: defining and developing the technology needed to better quantify
greenhouse gas emissions.
The new report, "Advancing Technologies and Strategies for Greenhouse Gas Emissions Quantification," is the
result of a special workshop in the NIST Foundations for Innovation series, convened in June 2010, to bring
together greenhouse gas experts from government, industry , academia and the scientific community to address
the technology and measurement science challenges in monitoring greenhouse gases. A wide variety of
techniques are used for measuring greenhouse gas emissions and, to a lesser extent, the effectiveness of
"sinks"—things like the ocean and forests that absorb greenhouse gases and sequester the carbon.
The problem is that developing an effective global strategy for managing greenhouse gases requires a breadth of
measurement technologies and standards covering not only complex chemical and physical phenomena, but also
huge differences in scale. These range from point sources at electric power plants to distributed sources, such as
large agricultural and ranching concerns, to large -scale sinks such as forests and seas. Satellite -based
systems, useful for atmospheric monitoring, must be reconciled with ground-based measurements. Reliable,
accepted international standards are necessary so governments can compare data with confidence, requiring a
lot of individual links to forge an open and verifiable chain of measurement results accepted by all.
Requirements: quantification of the combined effect of different driving forces on both ecosystem pattern and
process
Fig. 15 Space Scales involved in the Carbon Cycle: From Regional to Micro Scales
A new cross-scaling approach is emerging: data model fusion based on multi-scale observation and cross-scale
mechanistic modeling
In order to effectively deal with these issues and challenges, we cannot significantly
increase complexity of classical schemes and “languages”, but we should design a
new set of Education, Training , Information and Communication Concepts,
“Languages” and Strategies which directly incorporate elements characterizing the
“New Strategic Multiscale , Multidisciplinary Multisectoral Nano To Macro Science –
Engineering - Society World”.
There is growing Gap between Multimedia Technologies Innovation and Classical Education, Training,
Information and Communication Languages Development. Language Developments did not keep the pace with
Technologies Development
The new Framework is based upon the new concept of “Multiscale Modeling and Simulation as Knowledge
Integrators and Multipliers and Unifying Paradigm for Scientific and Engineering Methodologies and
Knowledge Domains” This new concept, as already explained, leads to a new Multiscale Vision and Theoretical
Context referred to as “Strategic Multiscale”.
This new Vision of Multiscale becomes a Key Constitutive Element of the “Language” adopted in this
Framework and the related application Schemes and “Formats”. Strategic Multiscale Science - Engineering -
Society Integration is a fundamental means to give a unified vision of any Research, Technology Development
and Engineering/Manufacturing, Environmental, Economic and Societal Phenomena and Process and,
accordingly, a useful and fundamental basis to shape New Analysis, Presentation, Discussion, Teaching and
Training Schemes, Strategies and Environments (globally referred to as “Language”). It is interesting to
highlight that a first move towards the redesign of University Education Strategies applying multiscale
integration as a key concept, was undertaken some years ago by MIT with the “ New Frontier of Education,
Information and Communication for Chemical Engineering” project. The MIT Organizing Principles develop
around three concepts:
Multiscale Analysis
Multidisciplinary Analysis
Science – Engineering Integration: molecular processes & transformation as basic elements to develop upon
new technological and engineering solutions.
Fig. 19 Basic concepts and principles applied to design new Multiscale Chemical Engineering Courses
The following Box puts in evidence the growing relevance of (Multiscale) Modeling
and Simulation Concepts and Methodologies for Education
Phil. Trans. R. Soc. A (2008) 366, 3717–3725 Computational thinking and thinking about
computing BY JEANNETTE M. WING - Computer Science Department, Carnegie
Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
Pages 3719 - 3720
Looking to the future, deeper computational thinking—through the choice of cleverer or more
sophisticated abstractions—may enable scientists and engineers to model and analyse their
systems on a scale orders of magnitude greater than they are able to handle today. Through
the use of abstraction layers, e.g. hierarchical decomposition, we look forward to when we
can: model systems at multiple time scales and at multiple resolutions of the three space
dimensions; model the interactions of these many complex systems to identify conditions for
tipping points and emergent behaviour; increase the number of parameters and sets of initial
conditions in these models; play these models backwards and forwards in time; and validate
these models against ground truth. Deeper computational thinking will help us not only to
model more and more complex systems, but also to analyse the massive amounts of data we
collect and generate.
Since 2007, Microsoft Research has funded the Carnegie Mellon Center for Computational
Thinking: http://www.cs.cmu.edu/~CompThink/ . The Center supports both research and
educational outreach projects.
Fig. 20 (from Georgia Institute of Technology) Multiscale (Space and Time) Integration Scenario for Complex
Systems (From Atoms to Assembly, Product , Industrial System and Ecosystems)
This kind of “Information Structures” introduces a new way to visualize relationships and interdependencies
among a wide spectrum of phenomena and processes characterizing Societal (any Area) Dynamics
Fig. 21 (from US Department of Energy) schematically represents the Integrated Multiscale Multidisciplinary
Science - Engineering Cyber “Extended Enterprise”
The “ Strategic Multiscale Multidisciplinary Science - Engineering - Society Collaboratory Earth and
Space Cyber-Physical Framework” and the related Virtual (HW and SW) Cooperative Environment
offers a “unified vision” to better understand the complex pattern of relationships and interdependencies among
the wide range of different actors, aspects and issues which characterize the research, technological innovation
and societal world and, accordingly, synthesize widely scattered efforts and forge more effective “unified
strategies” to deal with problems of increasing complexities.
Architectures, Operational Modes and Application Strategies integrate and apply the Concepts and
Methods described in the Items A, B and C
Fig. 22 A Cyber Physical Human World and the main constituting entities
1) Societal Systems and Scenario Framework (What are the “Systems” dealt with in the
Education, Training, Information and Communication Programs and the related “Scenario”
Where they act). This Framework implements the Strategic Multiscale Multidisciplinary Science –
Engineering – Society Framework described in the Paragraph 4.2 The Scenario Framework illustrates the
behaviour (dynamics) of any kind of Societal System and consequences (dynamics) of the “Actions”
undertaken by the “Entities” described in the Strategic Multiscale Collaboratory Framework. Dynamics is
evaluated/calculated using the “ Strategic Multiscale Space –Time Framework”
3) Strategic Multiscale Space–Time Framework This Framework evaluates Systems Dynamics and
Behaviour of all the Systems integrating and implementing the whole spectrum of Methods, Tools and
Environments described in the Chapters 3 and 4 of this document. Strategic Multiscale Digital Twin
Environments can implement this Framework
4) Virtual Strategic Multiscale Space-Time Machine: this Framework is devoted to model and
simulate any kind of Development Process for any kind of technological, industrial, human, societal
“System” applying the Multiscale Modeling and Simulation as “Knowledge Integrators and
Multipliers” and Unifying Paradigm for Scientific and Engineering Methodologies, Strategies and
Knowledge Domains. This Framework integrate and implement Methods and Environments described in the
Paragraph 4.5 “Virtual Multiscale Innovative Technology and Systems Development and Implementation
Modeling & Simulation Framework” and “Virtual Multiscale Science-Based Space Station (or Center)”: A
New Resource for a Globalized World” described in the Paragraph 4.6
a.
5) Strategy Framework (What Strategies, Processes, Methods and Analysis, Design, Planning
and Development Schemes are applied). The Strategy Framework defines, to some extent, the overall
Architecture of the Education, Training, Information and Communication Programs and it describes
Strategies employed to perform tasks and achieve objectives and how “Systems and Scenario”,
“Collaboratory” and Multiscale Space – Time” Frameworks integrate and coordinate with each other. This
Framework implements Methods and Environments described in the Paragraph 3.3 R&D and Design
Processes Architectural Modeling and Design Framework characterizing any kind of Societal System.
B) Multiscale Settings
“Earth–Centered” Setting
“From Space to Earth” Setting
The synergistic use of these specific Frameworks defines a unique and new way to analyze,
describe, design, discuss and teach any kind of Scientific, Engineering and Societal theme, topics
and issue.
b) Definition of the “Scenario where Systems (including humans and human organization) operate and related
(nominal, off – nominal, extreme, accident) operational conditions
c) Definition of the Objectives of the several (Analysis, Design, Research, Technology and Systems
Development, Operations Design, Manufacturing, Planning, Management, Investigation,..) Processes and
their structure and organization.
d) Identification of the (Human, Physical, Cyber, R&D and Engineering,….) “Entities” and related Functions
and Interactions carried out in the execution and development of the Phases and Processes taken into
account
e) Definition of Analysis, Research, Design, Management,….. Strategies needed to carry out Processes and
achieve Objectives. Definition of the Tasks Hierarchy. Definition of relationships among Tasks and the
“Entities” (R&D and Engineering Resources and Facilities,……….) employed to specific purposes
The new Strategic Multiscale Science – Engineering - Society “Language” and the related
Implementation Framework directly reproduces and structurally incorporates the analysis,
research, development, design and management schemes and strategies used by any kind
professionals to address any task in all the Human, Natural, Social, Technological, Industrial,
Safety & Security and Economic,…….. (Societal) fields.
The Strategic Multiscale “Language” and the related “Implementation Framework” are based upon the
following Key Reference Concepts, Environments and Principles:
Key Reference Concepts and Environments
Horizontal Integration (Strategic Multiscale Multidisciplinary Science – Engineering - Society
Collaboratory Earth and Space Cyber - Physical – Human Framework)
Vertical Integration (Strategic Multiscale Multiphysics Multidisciplinary Science-Engineering- Society
Nano To Macro and Macro To Nano Integration)
“Strategic Multiscale Concepts, Methods, Strategies and Frameworks for R&D and Engineering” which
characterizes themselves for a new Vision of Multiscale: Multiscale Modeling and Simulation as
“Knowledge Integrators and Multipliers” and Unifying Paradigm for Scientific and Engineering
(Analytical, Computational, Experimental, Characterization, Testing and Sensing) Methodologies and
Knowledge Domains.
Multiscale (Multi Space Time Dynamics) and “Strategic Multiscale” together with the previously
quoted “Key Reference Concepts and Environments”, are the “Protagonists” and the “New Scenario,
Context and Dimension” of the Education, Information, Communication Programs/Formats and
Entertainment (Films, Serials TV,..) «Stories»
– The “Strategic Multiscale Language” and the related Implementation Framework directly reproduces
(in an innovative and unique way) and structurally incorporates ( in an innovative and unique way),
thanks to the “Strategic Multiscale” Concepts, Method, Strategies and Frameworks the most advanced
analysis, research, development, design and management concepts, methods, schemes and strategies
which are at the root of any activity in all the Human, Social, Environmental, Technological,
Industrial, and Economic,….. (Societal) fields.
NOTE: We use the term “Language” inserted between quotes because from a formal (mathematical) point of
view what is described in these pages cannot be considered as a true Language but rather as a new Analysis,
Presentation and Discussion Framework, Scheme and Strategy.
The “Systems and Scenario Framework” adopts a multiphysics, multisectoral, multiresolution/multiscale, multi-
component representation scheme and zooming in and out functions: from a global vision of a “System” to a
vision of specific Elements and vice versa. A specific area of the display can preserve a general view while,
other zones of the display and/or other displays are dedicated to illustrate more detailed multiscale
multiresolution visions. That in order not to lose an “holistic” view of the systems and scenario behaviour.
“What-If” studies, Stochastic Analyses, Sensitivity Analyses and Analysis of Alternatives (AoA) can be
visualized, modifying technology, architectures and operational conditions. The “Strategic Multiscale Space –
Time Framework” evaluates/calculates the effects of alternatives and uncertainties on the “System” Dynamics.
Fig. 25 (from EADS) illustrates a two dimensional multiresolution multiscale (from systems to atoms)
view of an aircraft.
Note: The “Systems and Scenario Framework” can depict “Real” or “Hypothetic” Situations according
to specific needs of the Program and Story
This Framework also describes the “Overall Architecture” of the “Education, Training, Information,
Communication and Entertainment Programs” and “Phases” through which these Programs develop.
The “Strategic Multiscale Architectural Framework” implements, to some extent, what is called, today, in the
international context: “Workflow Management“. In the Entertainment context, the “Strategy Framework” can
be related to the “Script”, “Storyboard” or “Screenplay” Concepts and Environments
Fig. 27 (from US Department of Energy) R&D, Engineering and Computing Collaboratory Framework
Clicking on icons in the image, videos and/or computer models and simulations can be activated. Icons, which
represent “Entities”, can be organized following several (hierarchical, hybrid and multiresolution) classification
schemes: for instance by typology (computing centers, experimental centers testing centers, production
facilities,…), geographical location, tasks performed in a specific phase of the story. Multiresolution zooming
techniques are applied.
The “Strategic Multiscale Collaborative Framework” visualizes the results of simulations, actions, operations,
events, analyses and measurements carried out by the “Multiscale Space-Time Framework” and the “Virtual
Multiscale Space-Time Machine”. The “Collaboratory Framework” is a key asset to give a “Unified Vision” of
relationships among the full spectrum of resources, techniques and technologies (theory, simulation,
experimentation, testing, field sensors) which are being used by different groups working in different disciplines,
fields and facilities to analyze, design, operate, manage and control any kind of human, technological,
environmental, economic, industrial, civil, infrastructural, military and security system.
The figure illustrates how a set of computational and experimental resources can be integrated to perform
research, analysis and design tasks ( Application of the Multiscale Computational Modeling as “Knowledge
Integrator and Multiplier”)
The Strategic Multiscale Space – Time Framework describes the results of actions/activities and the dynamics
of the concerned “Systems” described in any kind of “Formats”, Programs” and “Stories” by a mix of Real
Images and Computational Models (Computer Generated Images (CGI)) as needed.
This specific Application Environment describes how a wide range of analytical, continuous and discrete,
agent-based, computational methodologies, experimental & testing & Sensing tools, models, methods and
techniques can be integrated to carry out specific R&D, Engineering, Manufacturing and Operational Tasks
(identified in the “Strategy Framework”) to analyze, model and simulate any kind of System and Operations
Dynamics. The Strategic Multiscale Space–Time Framework and the Strategic Multiscale Collaboratory
Framework, working together, can illustrate, how a whole set of mathematical, computational and experimental
& testing resources can cooperate (Integrated Multiscale Multidisciplinary Strategies) to analyze, evaluate,
calculate, measure the dynamics of a technological/natural/human/societal system over a wide range of space
and time scales and operational conditions. The Multiscale Systems Dynamics which is the result of this
integration strategy is showed in the “Systems and Scenario Framework”. By clicking on one or more icons in
the Collaboratory Framework, describing resources (computational, Experimental, Characterization, Testing,
Sensing systems), the Multiscale Space – Time Analysis and Design Environment activates itself and perform
(multiscale) simulations and measures. The Strategic Multiscale Space Time Framework describes the results of
the cooperation between the “Entities” performing computations, experimentations, tests and monitoring
activities. “Integration.
“ Strategy Maps” [described in the Paragraph 2.3.6] are applied to describe the network of (analytical,
computational, Experimental, Characterization, Testing and Sensing) models/methods/techniques cooperating to
deal with a Task according to a specific Strategy as defined in the “Strategy Framework”. The figure illustrates a
graphical representation of a “Integration Strategy Map”:
Fig. 29 Integration Strategy Map (from US Department of Energy (DoE) Fusion Materials program: Aspects
of Multiscale Modeling Primary Damage and Rate Theory Models Presentation – R. E. Stoller – Metals and
Ceramics Division Oak Ridge National Laboratory)
The Strategic Multiscale Space–Time Framework can evaluate multiscale stochastic interactions and
interdependencies, what is the role of “uncertainties” for “complex systems” analysis, design and control,
how uncertainties at a scale can have a major impact on the other scales and to what extent a design solution
is “robust” (sensitivity analysis) , i.e. sensitive to variations and changes at different scales.
The Strategic Multiscale Space–Time Framework can evaluate how data coming from a wide spectrum of
sources can be integrated and analyzed using “Multiscale Maps” as described in the Chapter 2. Data
Analysis and AI Techniques can be integrated.
Integration of the Strategic Multiscale Space-Time Analysis and Design Environment with the Strategic
Multiscale Collaboratory Framework allows us to describe at various levels of detail complex R&D,
Engineering/Manufacturing Strategies and a wide range of Societal Operational Scenarios.
Additional important elements of the “Strategic Multiscale (Knowledge Integrator and Multiplier) Space – Time
Framework” are:
“Strategic Multiscale Maps” that are a new typology of “Information and Knowledge Structure” which
allow to describe in a graphical way relationships and interdependencies among variable, phenomena,
processes and human and technological structures which characterize the Single and Multiscale behaviour
of any kind of Human and Technological System This kind of “Maps” were described by Alessandro
Formica inside the “Multiscale Science – Engineering Integration: A New Frontier for Aeronautics, Space
and Defense” White Book (2003) promoted Italian Association of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIDAA).
Maps gives a general and integrated view of variables, phenomena and processes which characterize dynamics
of a “System”. Strategic Multiscale Maps track:
relationships between Human, Natural and Technological “System” structures/elements and related
dynamics over time inside a scale and over different scales.
relationships between physical and biochemical phenomena and processes inside a scale and over
different scales.
relationships between Analysis and Design Variables over the full range of scales taken into account
relationships between “Performance - Properties – Structures - Processes” inside a single scale and over
different scales
Maps in any kind of Format, Story and program are illustrated using (Computer Generated Images
(CGI)) in some case complemented by real images.
This figure is an example of Multiscale Map which illustrates relationships among a spectrum of physical
interacting phenomena which characterize materials radiation damage.
correlate phenomena and processes occurring in the small world (atoms, molecules, genes, DNA, bacteria,
viruses,..) with phenomena and processes occurring over large (or very large) space and time scales. This
approach allows us to give a clear and unified picture of the behaviour of natural and technological systems
of any kind (a biological system, an aircraft, a chemical facility, a new material, an economic and industrial
system, a fuel cell,…) which are made up of a hierarchy of subsystems, components, devices (from macro to
nano scales).
illustrate as malfunctions or an abnormal behaviour of elements at small scales can lead to a macroscopic
failure of a large scale system (the fracture in a wing of an aircraft starts at atomic levels, but it can
eventually lead to the break of the wing and the fall of the aircraft) [Cornell University].
The accident of the Shuttle Columbia was determined by a small damage to the Thermal Protection System, but
this small damage propagates over space and time scales and it led to the well-known macroscopic accident
Fig. 33 Multiscale Dynamics of Shuttle Damage (Aiichiro Nakano – University of Southern California)
Illustrate how the behaviour of ecological and climatological systems is governed by a wide range of
biological, chemical and physical phenomena and processes spanning a wide range of time and space scales.
The Strategic Multiscale Space and Time Framework can show how even small changes in an ecosystem can
spread over larger and larger space and time scales and lead to major changes
It is important to highlight that computer modeling and simulation applied in the “ Strategic Multiscale Space-
Time Analysis and Design Environment” (or Strategic Multiscale Space–Time Framework) can adopt both the
deterministic and the stochastic approach. The stochastic approach is fundamental to highlight how the
behaviour (dynamics) of complex systems is inherently conditioned by “uncertainty” issues. Small changes in
initial and boundary conditions and model parameters can have dramatic effects on the behaviour (dynamics) of
complex systems. We think that the introduction in the Information field of the Stochastic issue, in the context of
the Strategic Multiscale Space–Time Analysis and Design Environment, can represent an important step forward
in understanding the complexity issue and its impact on a wide range of phenomena which condition activities
in several economic, industrial, health, environmental and social fields.
The basic concept is that any R&D, Engineering/Manufacturing and Industrial, Civil, Societal,… Development
Process can be regarded as a “Multiscale Space and Time Process” and it can be described by multiscale models.
Accordingly, the Multiscale Space–Time Framework allows us to model and simulate the R&D and
Engineering and Systems Design Processes applying the “Multiscale Science-Engineering Integration” as
Unifying Paradigm for Science and Engineering concept.
The Framework enables to analyze what technological and Engineering advances and innovative solutions can
be achieved thanks to Scientific and Technological progresses (bottom–up approach) and what scientific and/or
basic technological advances are needed to meet engineering and societal requirements (top –down approach)
The approaches can be interactively and iteratively combined. Several different scenarios can be taken into
account and evaluated (What if Strategy). Stochastic, What if, Analysis of Alternatives (AoA). Uncertainties
Quantification (UQ) methods can be applied
The Strategic Multiscale Space–Time Innovative Technology and System Development Simulator works in both
the space and time directions: forward (from small to big from the present days to the future) and backward
(from big to small and from the future to the present days).
Fig. 35 Cancer Genesis and Development: From Molecules to Disease – Purdue University
In such a way it is possible to highlight what are the conditions and the strategies needed to avoid negative
“Scenarios” (climate changes, pollution, energy crisis, slow economic development effects (positive/negative) on
several society organization hypotheses, how new drugs and (multiscale) imaging technologies can improve
human health conditions,… and, last but not least, what scientific and technological advances are needed to
achieve specific objectives and goals in a wide range of fields.
One of the most important strategic goals of Research, Innovation and Development policies, all around the
world, is to be able to illustrate in a clear and understandable way how costly, risky and lengthily basic and
applied research programs can have a real and demonstrable impact on human life and society structure and
organization. The “Virtual Strategic Multiscale Space-Time Machine” can represent an important tool to
achieve this goal. Universities and Research Organizations and Institutions should be highly interested in
supporting innovative ways to highlight how Science is becoming more and more a “Strategic Asset” for
Society, Industry and any kind of Civil, Environmental Structure and Infrastructure.
Illustrate how scientific advances can influence technological, industrial progress and socio-economic
systems and dynamics (bottom up processes) and how the future of industry, economy and society is
intimately linked to basic and applied research and innovative technologies (top down processes) .
Illustrate Technology Innovation and Systems Development Processes which can be regarded, from a
general point of view, as “Multiscale Space–Time Processes”
Analyze how Nanotechnologies and Micro Technologies can influence biological (Nano Medicine is,
inherently, a multiscale issue), environmental and social “systems” at higher scale levels and rationally
evaluate related possible risks and countermeasures
5.6 “Settings”
The Setting is the “Environment” where Multiscale Programs develop. Settings are conceived to represent
“Central Nodes” of “Virtual Multiscale Science - Engineering Distributed Collaborative Environments”
b) Space – Based Setting (adopted inside the “From Space To Earth Education, Information and
Communication” Framework – Paragraph 5.9)
The following figure depicts how the “ Earth – Based Studio” (Setting) can look like. It reproduces the Central
Coordinating Node of a Distributed Collaborative Environment.
Fig. 36 Earth Centred Setting representation (Electronic Visualization Laboratory Univ. Illinois at Chicago
This kind of setting is constituted by a “Virtual Space Facility” which we can call “Virtual Multiscale Science-
Based Space Station”. We can have e a single “Virtual Space Facility” or even a Cluster of “ Virtual Space
Facilities” placed in different locations: in orbit around the Earth, in orbit around a Planet, in the Deep Space,…..
Virtual Space Facilities can coordinate Earth Based Facilities. The “Technological Environment” is like the one
foreseen for the “Earth – based” Setting.
The “From Space to Earth Setting” is the expression of a New Space Culture and Vision represented by the
“Virtual Multiscale Science – Based Space Station” which plays the role of “Central Node” of a “Distributed
Collaborative Environment” located in the Space (Virtual Strategic Multiscale Space – Based Space Station)
and on the Earth.
The “Space Central Node” (Virtual Strategic Multiscale Science – Based Space Station), enables the
implementation of a new more Integrated “Analysis Vision and Perspective” of the Human Life and Society
and related issues on the Earth and the Future of the Space World. Life on the Earth is a “global” experience.
All the major factors which condition and rule life on the Earth: environment, climate change, population and
economic growth, diseases, the famine problem, energy, natural resources management,…. are strictly
interrelated and they concern all the world, no longer single countries. That is an absolutely trivial statement but
people in the different countries do not intimately “feel” to belong to a single “entity”, at least not yet.
The “Virtual Strategic Multiscale Science – Based Space Station” is a “Multiscale Knowledge Integrator and
Multiplier” Hardware and Software Environment which carries out these functions:
- The “Future of Earth From Space”: integration of data and information from Space, Aerial, Surface and
Sub-Surface Sensing Systems with Multiscale (Scientific and Engineering) Theoretical, Computational and
Experimental Facilities to design “Hierarchies of Multiscale/Multiresolution/Multiphysics Computational and
Knowledge Models (Multiscale Maps)” which represent a Synthesis of Scientific and Engineering Knowledge
and Methodologies aimed to: improve our understanding to Earth Dynamics and design improved Earth (Urban,
Land, Infrastructural) Systems and related Operational Schemes and Strategies
- The “Future of Earth in Space” : integration of data and information from Multiscale (Scientific and
Engineering) Theoretical, Computational, Experimental and Testing Facilities with data coming from Space
System Operations to develop “Hierarchies of Multiscale/Multiresolution/Multiphysics Computational and
Knowledge Models (Multiscale Maps)” which represent a Synthesis of Scientific and Engineering Knowledge
and Methodologies aimed to: design a new generation of Space Systems and Facilities and related Operational
Schemes and Strategies.
Both the “Settings” (Erath based and From Space to Earth) are supported by a “Technological Environment”
which takes full advantage of “state of the art” Computing, Information and Communication Technologies
(Hardware and Software Systems). Main elements of the “Technological Framework” are:
– 2D and 3D Digital Models and Simulations which describe structure and dynamical behaviour of any
Technological and/or Natural/Human System in any situation/condition inside the “Scenario” where the
story develops. In some cases, a direct connection with Supercomputing Centers can be foreseen.
– Multiscale Multiresolution Multilevel (Multiscale is a general term, it includes classical Single Scale
representations as a particular case) 2 D and 3D Graphical Systems
– Real Videos
– HW Visualization Systems which can integrate Real Videos and Computer Models and Simulations inside
high tech displays (multifunctional, multiresolution multi-tiled displays).
– Virtual, Mixed and Augmented Reality Systems and Environments
We can foresee a specific Display for each Framework or a Display can be used to visualize more Frameworks.
During the development of an “Education, Information and Communication Program” a Display can completely
merge with the video screen (close-up shot). It is possible to quickly transition from a Display to another
Display. Virtual Distributed Environments can also be used.
From inside a specific Framework we can call (activate) another Framework using the same Display or another
one. Inside a single Display different Environments can be visualized at the same time. The “Technological
Environment” allows for a wide spectrum of visualization schemes and strategies
Fig. 38 Example of advanced visualization technologies: Multi tiled multiresolution multiscale multi-level
multi environment display system
It is important to highlight that the “Virtual Multiscale Science - Engineering Space Station” Environment can
also be applied inside the “Earth Centred Setting”
Fig. 39 Visualization Technologies which characterize the “Technological Environment” for the “ Integrated
Analysis and Description Framework”
5.7 Objectives
The New Strategic Multiscale Science - Based Education, Training, Information and Communication
Framework offers a wide range of Public and Private, Civil, Social and Industrial Institutions working in a
wide spectrum of fields. a Common and integrated Conceptual, Knowledge and Implementation
Reference Context to build upon a full spectrum of Innovative Education, Training, Information,
Communication and Entertainment Formats, Programs and Initiatives and stimulate cross collaborations
among several public and private organizations working in a wide spectrum of areas.
The New Strategic Multiscale Science - Based Education, Training, Information, and Communication
Framework can contribute to close the Gap by the “Structure” of the Education, Training, Information and
Communication Programs and the “Structure of the R&D and Engineering Activities and Operations
Analysis and Design for any kind of Scientific, Civil, Public, Industrial, Social, field and System which
are the “Object” of the same Programs.
The New Framework offers a “unique” opportunity to Researchers, Technologists, Designers, Managers and
Politicians to describe in a simple and effective way new Scenarios opened by advances in Science,
Technology, Nano (Quantum) Engineering, Nano Manufacturing and their full Integration with the Micro,
Meso and Macro Technology/Engineering/Manufacturing /Processing World.
The new “Language” and Framework can play an important role to stimulate and promote a large spectrum
of advanced research and application activities in the fields of Education. Information, Communication and
Entertainment and it can also lead to a new Multiscale Graphics and Visualization World.
The Strategic Multiscale Education, Training, Information and Communication Framework is an
important opportunity for University, Research, Industry and Public Institutions to design and jointly
develop cutting edge Education, Training, Information and Communication projects in strategic sectors in
partnership with leading European and International Entities
A wide range of new Education, Training, Information and Communication Programs can be the basis for
high profile Cultural, Education, Training, Information and Communication initiatives funded by
National, European and international organizations.
Formats and Programs built over the new Framework characterize themselves for a high cultural and social
value.
Distinguishing features of the new ”Language” and related Frameworks are adaptivity and flexibility.
Adaptivity: Programs based upon the New “Framework” and “Language” can be designed to adapt
themselves to several typologies of “Audience” without significant modifications .
Concerned Audience Categories:
a) University Students (any degree and level)
b) Researchers and Professors
c) Secondary School Students
d) Public and Private Professionals (any typology, any rank and level)
e) Public and Private Managers, Executives, Officers, Engineers, Technicians, Operators,… (any typology
and any level/rank, any field)
f) Citizens and Social Bodies
Flexibility: The “Language” and Framework can be directly applied, without changes to a very wide
Spectrum of Scientific, Technological, Engineering, Civil & Infrastructural, Economic, Societal Fields and
Topics
We can identify two large Application Areas:
The Strategic Multiscale Science - Based Framework is a perfect synthesis and application of these new
educational methods
The new Programs allow to teach not only theories and facts, but, in particular,
methods, strategies, analysis and evaluation schemes.
New Educational Programs are characterize and shaped by the: “Strategic Multiscale Science - Engineering -
Society Language Implementation Framework” (described in the Paragraph 5.5)
Lessons/Lectures/Seminars/Courses are held inside equipped Electronic Classrooms: PCs and Large Scale
Displays. They can be diffused through Internet Networks (on-line or recorded diffusion).
Topics (Examples) which can be the subject of the new Educational Programs (for both the story development
schemes):
analysis of complex bio-chemical-physical Phenomena and Dynamics of Systems (any kind, any field:
Drugs, Diseases, Environmental and Climatological Phenomena and Processes, Materials and
Devices,….). It is possible to reproduce real research and development activities using Collaboratory and
Multiscale Space-Time Analysis and Design Environment. In order to illustrate future potentialities of
research methodologies and technologies e can use Virtual Multiscale Space-Time Machines and Multiscale
Space Time Frameworks running in a “Virtual Mode”. It is also possible to compare real with hypothetic
cases and describe “development roadmaps” and related new technologies and methodologies.
analysis of R&D and Engineering methodologies (computational, experimentation, testing, Sensing),
their application domains, limits and shortcomings, development trends.
Technological, methodological integration schemes are discussed using Multiscale Space Time Analysis and
Design Environment and Multiscale Collaboratory Frameworks.
analysis of complex projects (any kind, any field). Frameworks are well suited to illustrate at several
levels of detail, as needed, taking into account audience, the complex set of activities linked to a Project
using in a synergistic way, Strategic, Collaboratory and Multiscale Space and Time Frameworks. Virtual
Multiscale Space-Time Machines can illustrate how new technologies and systems, foreseen in the Project,
can benefit and impact Society.
turning scientific discoveries in new technologies. Multiscale Space Time Frameworks and Virtual
Multiscale Space-Time Machines can be highly useful to illustrate how research results and achievements
are the basis to develop new technologies, engineering systems, environmental solutions,…
analysis of Nanotechnologies and related Development Trends, Nano - Micro – Meso - Macro
Integration and Application (any field : materials, bio-chemistry, bio-medicine, manufacturing,
electronics, environment, health, safety,…) Opportunities and Strategies. The development of
integrated hierarchical nano – micro and nano – micro – meso – macro technological systems is one of the
most important challenges for Engineering and Technology in any field. Nanotechnology is the symbol of
the new relationships between Science and Engineering.
analysis of relationships between Nano/Micro Technology and Environment, Health and Safety (EHS).
This topic, inherently multiscale, is becoming one of the most critical issue for a wide application of
Nanotechnology.
design of a new technological, biomedical, infrastructural, environmental, manufacturing, industrial
and economic process and/or system (or a mix of them).. The “Multiscale Science - Engineering
Language Implementation Framework” can reproduce the different phases and strategies which underlie
the design process.
analysis of how technological systems interact and can impact the environment where they operate.
Interactions between technological, industrial and infrastructural (transportation, energy and communication
networks,…) systems and the environment where they operate (nominal and off-nominal operating
conditions, accidents included) are inherently governed by a full set of multiscale (space and time)
phenomena and processes. Frameworks enable to depict in an integrated way the full spectrum of
relationships between the system (any kind) and the environment where the system operates. For instance,
the whole path of pollutants: from the birth (formation) to their diffusion in the environment until their
interactions with living systems. An interesting application area is the design of the so called “clean by
design” technologies and systems (sustainable development). Sustainable development is a strategic goal for
Society. Multiscale Space-Time Framework, implemented in a “Virtual” mode, and the “Virtual Multiscale
Space Time Machines can also illustrate how future technological and engineering developments can
improve safety and security levels end reduce environmental impact.
analysis of the behaviour of technological, civil, infrastructural, defense and natural systems in
extreme conditions (emergency, safety, security, military operations, disasters,..) Multiscale Space-
Time Framework can clearly illustrate how an accident in a technological system or a natural catastrophic
event (flooding, earthquake, hurricane…) has its roots in a hierarchy of phenomena occurring over a wide
range of space and time scales and, in a similar way, how effects develop over a wide range of space and
time scales. Virtual Multiscale Space-Time Machines applied in the “Direct and Inverse Virtual” mode can
easily describe how new technologies and engineering solutions can reduce the probability that some
accidents occur and minimize their effects.
Investigations about critical natural and technological events (technological failures, accidents of any
kind, diseases, epidemics and pandemics, terrorists attacks,…)
Investigations can concern real world events: accidents related to technological systems of any kind
(nuclear, chemical, petrochemical plants), environmental pollution cases, epidemics and new diseases,
natural disasters and the human prevention and response (or the lack of it). Multiscale Space – Time
Frameworks can illustrate how it is possible to take advantage of the most modern computational
methodologies, nano/micro technologies and scientific advances to identify root causes of the
accident/incident. Frameworks can also illustrate hypothetic future accidents in future technological and
environmental systems and what new investigation techniques and technologies would be needed to avoid
critical situations and emergencies.
Note: Investigation Programs could represent a whole new Generation of Educational Programs
Strategic Multiscale Science-Based Formats and ”Languages” are applied to develop new Multiscale Training
Methodologies and Environments for Professionals (any level, any field) to deal with complex analysis, design
and operational issues applying new Strategic Multiscale Science-Based Strategies which take advantage of
innovative Multiscale Science-Engineering Integration Methods. Training activities aimed at teaching basis
methods, theories and facts develop as already described in the previous Paragraphs of this Chapter with
particular reference to the Paragraph5.5 The objectives of Advanced Training Programs are:
a) Training Professionals to solve real Planning, Analysis, Design and Management Issues using new
Multiscale Science-Engineering Integrated Methodologies and Strategies
b) Evaluating their level of learning, proficiency and the degree of ability to face real problems
The inherent “Multiscale” Nature of Human, Civil, Technological, Safety and Security, Environmental
and Societal Systems represents a key “Motivation” for the development of this new kind of Training
Programs.
C. Operations: designing operational plans to deal with a wide range of nominal and off-nominal situations
concerning any kind of Systems in a very wide spectrum of fields.
E. Accidents: dealing with accidents occurring in a technological system (any kind) in order
to minimize negative effects on Humans and Environment. The incident can be caused either by events internal
to the same technological system (failure of a component, a control system malfunction, human error, ...) or it
can be determined by external natural actors (earthquake, tsunami, flood, .. ) or caused intentionally by men
(security scenario). ]
F. Emergencies: defining strategies to face a particular critical situation. For example, facing an epidemic,
dealing with societal critical situations, a flooding, containing a fire, ….
G. Investigations: defining a strategy to uncover the root causes of abnormal phenomena and processes:
diseases, malfunctions of engineering/manufacturing or societal systems (any kind of complexity) explaining
the off-nominal behavior of a technological and societal systems, uncovering the origin of environmental
problems,….
1)
This Training Framework has the same structure and functionalities described in the Paragraphs 5.3 and 5.5.:
Strategic Multiscale Systems and Scenario Framework (What are the “Systems” dealt with in the
Education, Training, Information and Communication “Training Program” and the related Natural,
Human, Social and Technological “Scenario” Where they act). The Scenario Framework illustrates the
“context” where the Training Program develops, the Objectives of the Training Program, the behaviour
(dynamics) of the Systems, the consequences of the “Actions” of the Players and the “Activities”
undertaken by the “Entities” described in the Collaboratory Framework
Strategic Multiscale Science – Engineering – Societty Earth and Space Collaboratory Framework What
are the Cyber – Physical, Human, Natural,…..Entities involved in the “Training Program”
1) Humans and any kind of “Human Organizations”
2) Entities doing specific R&D, Engineering, Monitoring and Control Activities and How they Interact
3)Entities involved in the activation, management, coordination of any kind of “physical means” needed
to carry out a wide range of actions and activities
Strategic Multiscale Space-Time Innovative Technology and Systems Development Simulator (Virtual
Strategic Multiscale Space-Time Machine) This Framework describes Innovative Technology and
System Development Processes and how and to what extent new technological, engineering,
manufacturing and operational solutions can influence the “Dynamics” of the “System”.
Strategic Multiscale Analysis and Design Architectural Framework (What Strategies, Processes,
Methods and Analysis, Design, Planning and Development Schemes are applied). The Strategy
Framework describes Strategies employed to perform tasks and achieve objectives for any kind of
Project and Program and to define Strategies to use in an effective way of the available Technological
and Human Resources to deal with any kind of (nominal , off-nominal, extreme, accident) scenario
related to any kind of Industrial and Societal areas..
2) [Autonomous Training: Strategy is defined by the Training Participants] At the beginning of the
Training Program, Training Participants (single Training Participants or Teams) must define, using the
“Strategic Multiscale Architectural Framework” a strategy to deal with the Issues dealt with by the Training
Program using Resources described in the “ Strategic Multiscale Science – Engineering – Society
Collaboratory Framework”, the “Strategic Multiscale Space – Time Framework” and the Virtual
Strategic Multiscale Space-Time Innovative Technology and Systems Development System (Virtual
Strategic Multiscale Space and Time Machine). At each step Training Participants have to select a
combination of the available Resources. During the Training Program the system evolves as a result of choices
made by Training Participants. Results of the choices and System Dynamics are evaluated with the “ Strategic
Multiscale Space – Time Framework” and/or Virtual Multiscale Space and Time Machine . Participants
can a interactively and iteratively modify the strategy defined at the beginning of the Training Program and the
Resources selected according to the state of the system visualized in the “Strategic Multiscale System and
Scenario Framework” . The Training Program goes on until The Training Program Issue has been dealt with
in a successfully way or it becomes clear that a dead end has been reached or Available Time runs out.
Evaluators analyze Strategy effectiveness levels and comment on the behaviour of Training Section Participants.
The designed System is subjected to a series of tests. The rating is determined as a function of the test
results. Below a certain level, the test is declared "failed". Candidates must pass all tests. If one or more tests are
not exceeded, Training Program Participants may change the design interactively and iteratively. Training
Program Participants have at their disposal more iterations (their number is determined by the Evaluators
according to the difficulty of the project or other criteria) to make new design choices and evaluate their effects
The Strategic Multiscale Space-Time Framework is applied to evaluate performance of several design
hypotheses and the effectiveness of analysis schemes and strategies.
The Training Program Participants have at their disposal a complete set of "components" to design a system that
is as close as possible to the defined objectives. All this must be done within a predetermined period of time.
The Training Program proceeds in an iterative and interactive. The Training Program Participants check the
performance of the "system" using the “Strategic Multiscale Space Time Framework " whose results are
shown graphically., Training Program Participants design the "System" by choosing from a set of predefined
design elements (System Components) and they define the overall Architecture. The designed System is
subjected to a series of tests. The rating is determined as a function of the test results. Below a certain level, the
test is declared "failed". Candidates must pass all tests. If one or more tests are not exceeded, Training
Participants may change the design interactively and iteratively. Training Participants have at their disposal more
iterations (their number is determined by the Evaluators according to the difficulty of the project or other
criteria) to make new design choices and evaluate their effects. The winner is the player or the team that passed
the verification tests with the best score.
The “Strategic Multiscale System and Scenario Framework” describes with images and digital
models/simulations a “System” which should be developed highlighting architecture component technologies,
operational conditions, performance, functionalities and the Environment where the “System” operates.
Training Program Participants can select from a “Menu” Components, Technologies, Subsystems and
Architectures. Afterwards, they use the “Multiscale Space and Time Framework” to evaluate performance of the
selected “Configuration”. The “Strategic Multiscale Collaboratory Framework” describes the set of
Resources and Facilities to be used by Training Program Participants to deal with Innovative Systems
Development
the “Strategic Multiscale Space – Time Innovative Technology and System Development
Simulator” (Virtual Strategic Multiscale Space-Time Machine) models the Innovative Systems
Development Process using Facilities and Resources indicated in the “Collaboratory Framework”
The “Strategic Multiscale Space Time Framework” calculates and evaluates Systems Performance
and Behaviour for different Architectures and Technologies for specific operational conditions
At the beginning of the Training Program the System object of the Training Program is selected: a new Aircraft,
a new Plant, a new Electronic or Energy Systems,……….. The best available performance and functionalities
(including energy efficiency, environmental impact and costs) are indicated
The “Innovative System” to be developed is decomposed into a hierarchy of sub-systems, components, devices
and materials. Today technologies and performance are indicated for each “Element”. Training Program
Participants have at their disposal a set of new (Multiscale) “Elements” (materials, devices, components and
sub-systems characterized by new technologies and improved performance). Training Program Participants
have to combine the “Elements” in such a way to define a new Architecture with improved performance. In a
more complex version of the Training Program, Training Program Participants should decide what new
technologies and the characteristics of the System constitutive “Elements”
The “Strategic Multiscale Space – Time Innovative Technology and System Development Simulator”
can be applied to check what new technological solutions and architectures can be devised to avoid the incident
All this is represented by "Digital Models" which graphically represents the dynamics of the whole System.
Digital Models can be integrated by real images
Training Program Participants use the 'Means of Intervention" according to specific Operational Strategies to try
to control the incident and they use the "Monitoring and Control Systems " to assess the situation development;,
the effects of their decisions are simulated by the “Systems Dynamics Framework”
The “Strategic Multiscale Space – Time Innovative Technology and System Development Simulator”
can be applied to check what new technological solutions, systems and operational strategies can be devised to
deal in a better way with the Emergency
All this is represented in such a way as to define a "Digital Model" whose evolution graphically represents the
dynamics of the Training Program,
Training Program Participants use the 'Means of Intervention" according to specific Operational Strategies to try
to control the incident and they use the "Monitoring and Control Systems " to assess the situation development,
the effects of their decisions in order to lead the "System" to a state of less criticality and / or stabilization.
The results of right and wrong decisions are showed on the screen.
Theme F) Investigation
The goal of the Training Program is the definition of analysis strategies to find out the root causes that
determined the abnormal situation to be investigated and how and why it evolved, We consider some examples:
a mysterious epidemics an economic, social, environmental, climatological or industrial crisis or anomalous
behaviour.
Investigators use the following Frameworks to carry out analyses:
The “Strategic Multiscale Architectural Analysis and Design Framework” describes the Strategies
applied following the Investigation Hypotheses
– the “Strategic Multiscale System and Scenario Framework” describes with images and digital
models/simulations the “System” to be analyzed, structure, technologies and components, experimental,
imaging, Sensing and testing systems, operational conditions, performance, functionalities and the
Environment where the “System” operates
– The “Strategic Multiscale Science – Engineering – Society Earth and Space Cyber & Physical
Collaboratory Framework” describes the set of Resources and Facilities to be used by Training
Program Participants to identify what can be the root causes of the “Scenario” to be investigated
– The “Strategic Multiscale Space Time Framework” is applied to model and simulate all the analyses
carried out using the resources available in the “Strategic Multiscale Science – Engineering –
Society Earth and Space Cyber & Physical Collaboratory Framework”. Results of the simulations
describes the dynamics of the “System” under investigation for specific purposes in order to verify the
degree of compatibility with the hypotheses takin into account .
– the “Strategic System and Scenario Framework” describes with images and digital models/simulations
the “Issue and the related Scenario” to be investigated,
The “Strategic Multiscale Science – Engineering – Society Cyber & Physical Collaboratory
Framework” describes the set of Resources and Facilities applied to carry out Investigations activities
– Analysis/Investigation Systems and Tools are modeled and simulated by the “Strategic Multiscale
Space-Time Framework”.
– The “Strategic Multiscale Architectural Analysis and Design Framework” is applied to define how all
the available Resources and Facilities are integrated to carry out Investigation. Several Hypotheses can
be described and iteratively changed during the Training Program.
Information Programs
Leitmotif :
“From Atoms to Society: Nano To Macro Space and Time Integration, The New Frontier for Information”
3) Final Analysis and Debate (Optional) : the “Story” is analyzed and commented upon by the Host, the
Professional Team and by selected persons located in the Studio or outside it (video connected) who did not take
part in the “Story”
Information Programs are recorded in and broadcast from fully Electronic Equipped Studios
Documentaries
Multiscale Education, Training, Information and Communication Documentaries like the ones from BBC,
National Geographic, Discovery Channel ,……play a very important role for the “Education of Citizens and
Students and also Professionals and Managers. They are designed for a very large audience. Documentaries are
recorded inside a fully equipped “Electronic Environment”. Recorded Documentaries are broadcast using a full
spectrum of media: classical TV or Internet. Documentaries are characterized by three key elements:
1) “Strategic Multiscale Science - Engineering Language Implementation Framework” (Paragraph 5.5)
2) “Setting” In this case we use the term “Studio” as described in the(Paragraph 5.6) . When Documentaries
concern Space Activities and/or Global Issues the “Space – Based Setting” can be used.
Structure of the Documentaries is similar to the one of Information Programs.
Meetings
The “Strategic Multiscale Science - Engineering Language Implementation Framework“ (Paragraph 5.5)
can be directly applied to introduce, discuss and analyze, in a new way, a wide range of topics inside all the
fields concerning the following Entities: Industries, Universities, Research Centers any kind of Public Civil and
Military Organization, Social Entities, Citizen Organization,….
Meeting Typologies: Analysis, Design, Planning, Management, Investigation, Project Review,… of any kind
of System, Scenario, Project, Program, and Initiative. In the most general case we have:
A fully equipped “ Electronic Central Meeting Site” where is located a Coordination Team (one or more
professionals). Two situations can be considered. The first one all the meeting attendees are in the Central Site.
In the second one we can have more attendees distributed over more sites. The Coordination Team manages and
governs the Meeting using the “Strategy Framework”. “The Central Site is equipped with the Technological
Environment described in the Paragraph 5.6 Several Teams can be connected using Virtual Distributed
Environments. The Meeting goes on using the “Integrated Analysis and Description Framework” and following
the Classical Narrative Presentation Scheme.
A specific new feature could be the application of a new “Presentation, Analysis and
Discussion Perspective” of problems and issues: highlighting not only what we are able
to do, as usual, but what we are not able to do, what we should be able to do to achieve
specific objectives, and how we should do it.
In all the cases, we apply the “Strategic Multiscale Science - Engineering Language Implementation
Framework” (Paragraph 5.5)
Conferences
Inside classical Conferences we foresee the organization of special “Integrated Strategic Multiscale
Multidisciplinary Science - Engineering - Society Sessions” dealing in an integrated multidisciplinary way
with a specific Complex Topic/Issue. Integration develops along three integration lines: Science and
Engineering, Disciplines, Methodologies (Theory, Computation, Experimentation, Testing and Sensing).
Presentations are given by speakers located in the Conference Site and/or outside it (Video Connected) using the
“Strategic Multiscale Science - Engineering Language Implementation Framework“ (Paragraph 5.5).
Speakers integrate recorded material with live analyses and comments. The “Multiscale Science – Engineering
Language Implementation Framework” allows to synthesize and correlate the multidisciplinary aspects and
implications of a Complex Problem or Topic integrating, in the context of a “Strategy” (Strategy Framework) a
wide range of points of view, results, contributions, experiences, competences and interests from people working
in or belonging to a wide range of fields and applying the full spectrum of available Methodologies
(Theoretical, Computational, Experimental, Characterization, Testing, Sensing) inside a coherent Framework
A specific new feature ” could be the application of a new “Presentation, Analysis and
Discussion Perspective” of problems and issues: highlighting not only what we are able to do, as
usual, but what we are not able to do, what we should be able to do to achieve specific objectives, and
how we should do it.
Fig. 40 Electronic “Modeling and Simulation Based” Analysis and Discussion Environments
The figure is a representation of an “Electronic Model Based Discussion Environment” characterized by two (or
more) Groups which illustrate, using large scale displays and Models, their positions and theses applying the
Integrated Analysis and Description Framework. The “Electronic Model Based Discussion Environment” can
also be placed in the “Space” inside a “Virtual Strategic Multiscale Science-Based Space Station.
Multiscale Webs
New Multiscale Webs can be built combining advanced graphic features with the “Strategic Multiscale Science
- Engineering . Society Language Implementation Framework” components:
“Strategic Multiscale Science – Engineering - Society Earth and Space Collaboratory Framework”
In the new Web configuration, each Framework corresponds to a “Window”. Several solutions can be devised:
Strategic Multiscale Frameworks can be activated to carry out specific functions and functionalities inside a
traditional Web Architecture
A “ Strategic Multiscale Education, Training, Information and Communication Program” can be selected
by the user from a Menu and it can proceed in an automatic way.
R&D and Industrial projects and programs of any kind in any field of any level of complexity
How R&D and Engineering projects can benefit Environment, Society and Industry
Structure and Dynamics of any kind of Technological and Natural Systems and their interactions for nominal
and off nominal conditions
In the context of the Strategic Multiscale Science - Engineering - Society Framework, Space can be regarded
as the “Catalyst” of a New Cultural Policy based upon a “Strategic Multiscale Multidisciplinary Science –
Engineering - Society Integration” concept and strategy to address key issues for the Future of Earth and the
Future of Earth in Space.
Space is also the most striking Symbol of a major Integration Stream: Globalization. Space is the only place
where all the complex Earth economic development, civil, infrastructural, social, environmental and health
problems and issues can be appreciated and evaluated as a “Single Process”
By adopting the new “Strategic Multiscale Science – Engineering - Society Integration” Vision, stemming from
its history, Space will become a fundamental “driver” to develop and apply new and more effective Strategies to
deal with “Mankind Challenges”. At the same time, the new integrated Vision, by enabling the development of
highly innovative and affordable Space Technologies and Systems, will contribute to shape “The Future of
Mankind in Space”
The “Strategic Multiscale Multidisciplinary Science - Engineering - Society Integration” Concept and
Framework can give “Space” the
“Mark” of A New Frontier For A New Alliance Science - Technology – Society to effectively address
Mankind Challenges on Earth and in Space
In the Strategic Multiscale Multidisciplinary perspective, Space plays a special “Symbolic Role” as
“Integration Element” because it is at the Top of the Hierarchy of Space and Time Scales which rule any Earth,
Human, Natural and Technological phenomenon and process and relationships and interdependencies. “Space”
integrates in a “Big Picture” a Hierarchy of interrelated Multiscale Multidisciplinary Multisectoral phenomena,
processes, observations, analyses and models.
The “Strategic Multiscale Science – Based Education, Information and Communication Framework” takes full
advantage of the “Space Symbolic Role” to create a New “Culture” to deal in an innovative way with the
“Globalization Challenges”
The “Strategic Multiscale Multidisciplinary Science - Engineering - Society Space and Earth Cyber &
Physical ” and the “Virtual Strategic Multiscale Science – Based (or Science – Engineering – Society) Space
Station” Environment and Concept are essential components of this new “Vision”
The new “From Space To Earth” Framework integrate all the features which characterize the “Strategic
Multiscale Science – Based Education, Information and Communication” Framework, but it introduces a new
“Setting”: From Space to Earth Setting
Strategic Objective: developing a New "Global Culture" among citizens, professionals, and
politicians at all the levels and inside any area
Reference Themes
“From Space to Earth” Programs are conceived to deal, in particular; with five Themes :
Space Science
The Universe is inherently a Multiscale Machine and System
Space Technology
Strategic Multiscale Science – Engineering Integration as a key element to develop new Space technologies.
Strategic Multiscale Space – Time Frameworks act as virtual space - time machines to describe what scientific
and technological advances can propel space activities in the future
Application Areas
Application Areas are like the ones already foreseen for the General Strategic Multiscale Science – Based
Education, Information and Communication “Language” and Framework.
Educational Programs
The following text gives some hints at the driving role that new Educational Concepts, Strategies and
Frameworks centered on Space could have in the Educational World provided that innovative concepts and
frameworks be conceived:
Information Programs
Communication Programs
All these Frameworks run over the “Integrated Earth and Space Strategic Multiscale Science –
Engineering –Society Cyber & Physical Framework” described in the Chapter 4 and, in particular,
over the “Strategic Multiscale Science-Engineering-Society Knowledge Integrator and Multiplier
Computing, Information and Communication (CIC) Infrastructural Framework” (Paragraph 4.3)
6.2.1 Architecture
b) Analysis and Design Methodologies & Strategies Framework. This Module manages all the
Analysis and Design Activities applied in all R&D and Engineering and Manufacturing& Processing
tasks. Analysis and Design activities are carried out thanks to the “Integrated Multiscale R&D and
Engineering Methodologies and Strategies Environment (Paragraph 2.3). These activities are planned
and coordinated by the Integrated Information – Driven Strategic Multiscale R&D and Engineering
Analysis and Design Schemes, Strategies and Environments (Paragraph 2.3.6) [which allows to
“Design” the overall Architecture of the Analysis and Design Processes). The “Strategic Multiscale
Digital Twin” Environments implement Analysis and Design Methodologies & Strategies.
c) Application Module:
This module integrates all the following Frameworks:
System-Framework Interactions and System Requirements Definition Framework (Paragraph 5.2.3),
Strategic Multiscale Systems Engineering Framework (Paragraph 5.2.4),
Strategic Multiscale Science – Based Manufacturing and Processing (Paragraph 5.2.5)
Strategic Multiscale Environmental Monitoring and Impact Analysis Framework (Paragraph 5.2.6),
Virtual Strategic Multiscale Science- Engineering (or Science-Based) Testing Framework (Paragraph 5.2.7)
Virtual Strategic Multiscale Life Cycle Engineering Framework (Paragraph 5.2.8)
d) Data Analysis and Management Module: The amount of data to be stored, classified, fused and
analyzed is growing at a very fast pace (even more in the multiscale context). Classical Data
Management Systems and Schemes/Strategies begin to be no longer effective solutions. New
solutions and strategies are emerging (Materials Informatics) based on the “Metadata” concept, Data
Analytics and AI. Multiscale Multidisciplinary Maps and Knowledge Domains can represent a first step
towards new Analysis and Management solutions. A new feature foreseen in the Strategic Multiscale
Vision is the possibility to correlate sets of data with simulations, experiments and tests which
generated them and with specific analysis and design tasks and strategies (Paragraph 2.1).
Strategic Objectives:
a) Developing a global and coherent picture of different (scientific and engineering) complementary
visions, objectives, descriptions and models as a basic condition to radically improve the cooperation
among university – research – industry - society, and the design of innovation strategies.
b) Developing a new “Integrated Platforms” which can allow scientists and engineers to integrate all
the knowledge needed to analyze and design complex innovative Systems and the related
manufacturing processes
c) Defining innovative systemic approaches that consider the global behaviour of complex systems
as a whole by integrating representations and information across multiple scales and disciplines
d) Redefining data, information and knowledge transfer along the whole chain : basic research,
applied research, technology development, maturation, and integration, engineering, manufacturing,
operational testing
e) last but not least “Designing the R&D and Design Process”
Key Elements:
We would like to highlight that also Environmental Impact Analyses play an increasingly crucial role in the
development of all the technological systems including the military ones. Same considerations hold true for the
evaluation of the environmental impact of manufacturing processes. Bio-Chemical-Physico phenomena
underlying environmental processes are intrinsically multiscale and multiphysics.
A new challenge for “Environmental Impact” analyses is an integrated assessment of the whole chain : pollutant
or toxic substances generation – diffusion in the environment – interaction with biological systems (humans
included). This is a classic example of a Multiscale Multiphysics problem. This Issue can be dealt with a special
version of the “Virtual Multiscale Space – Time Machine” (Paragraph 4.5)
System-Environment interactions determine loads for any technological systems. Engineering and
technological requirements .are defined by analyzing how the “system” react to loads for the full operational
envelope and for the whole life-cycle. These issues are critical for alternatives evaluation as far as system
general architecture and technologies selection are concerned
In the “Strategic Multiscale System Engineering” field, Analyses Challenges are linked to the following issues:
Analysis of the Interactions between the operational environment and the technological systems for the
whole operational envelope including extreme and off-nominal conditions
Analysis of Requirements and their Interdependencies over the full spectrum of scales (Multiscale
Requirements Traceability)
Analysis of the “Requirements – Performance – Architecture/Structure – Property” relationships and
interdependencies over the full spectrum of scales taking into account relationships and interdependencies
inside a scale.
Analyzing Multiscale Interactions among several elements at the same scale and over a spectrum of scales.
Also in this case we deal with Multiscale Physical, Chemical and Biochemical Issues because Interactions
can involve phenomena spanning a spectrum of scales and Dynamics of Elements at the same scales can be
characterized by phenomena developing over multiple scales.
Development Hierarchies of Multiscale Multilevel Multidisciplinary “Variable Fidelity” Computational
Models and Experimental/Characterization/Testing/Sensing Models and Techniques.
Analysis, Organization and Integration of Data Information and Knowledge get from the full spectrum of
“Information Sources” (Data Bases, Analytical Theory, Computational Models, Experimentation and
Testing) during the different phases of the R&D and Engineering Process and related to the whole range of
the “System Architectural Elements” from material coupon to devices, components, sub-systems and the
whole system. “Multiscale Maps” and “Knowledge Domains” and the related “Management System” can be
applied to address this Issue.
Methods, Strategies and Environments described in the “Integrated Strategic Multiscale Science -
Engineering Analysis Schemes” (Chapter 3) are applied to deal with the previously highlighted Tasks. The
“Integrated Strategic Multiscale Science – Engineering – Society Earth and Space Cyber & Physical
Framework” (Chapter 4) represents a new “Integrated Platform and Operational Environment” where
Systems Engineering Analysis and Design Strategies can effectively work and be applied.
The Multiscale Analysis of data is a new frontier for the sector "Data Analysis", also taking into
account the increasing use of the methodologies "Multiscale" in the Analysis and Design of "Smart
Cities"
The spread of a huge number of "data sources": satellites, drones, mobile phones, sensor networks,
social networks, the Internet and the Internet of Things which provide information on phenomena that
develop on a wide range of spatial and temporal scales is making it increasingly necessary to develop
new data analytics methods. Examples of Application Areas:
Production of Wind Energy: four possible scales: individual wind turbine, wind farm, group of
wind farms, wind farm of an entire country. The analysis of the data shows that the production of
wind power has an intermittent character of all scales. L 'objective is to make it as stable as
possible the production of energy with different strategies correlation between different scales.
Recently, it was shown that the combination of different sources of renewable energy such as wind
and solar power, would provide a more constant production of combined energy (Integration Multi-
Area Multiscale)
Mobility: “Understand human movement and the correlations with the Pollution and Economic
Activity / Production by small spatial areas, such as neighborhoods, the city, the country, the
region and beyond, it is critical for a variety of topics such as the spread of diseases , optimization
of telecommunications networks, urban planning, .......” University IUAV of Venice – School of
Graduate - SMART SAFE ROAD - ICT Infrastructure for the Smart and Secure
Water Management: Recent studies have shown the need to consider the space-time dimension
of the supply of water resources in order to correlate the same properly with the weather patterns
and hydrology, pollution, the evolution of population ... .. [see, for instance "Multiscale Effects on
Spatial Variability Metrics Global Water Resources Data Shama Perveen, James L. Allan Water
Resource Manage (2010) 24: 1903-1924)]
Multiscale Data – Multiscale Models Two way Relationships: Multiscale Models not only use
sensor data, but can also help to improve the design the architecture of sensor networks and their
operational modalities. Multiscale Data-Modeling Integration is a key resource to get an in-depth
“Knowledge” of Complex Scientific, Engineering. Societal, Environmental and Economic Systems and
Processes. This Knowledge is a key resource to build a new Generation of Decision Support Systems
in the Industrial and Societal Fields and design, develop and validate a new Generation Integrated
Strategic Multiscale Science-Engineering-Society Frameworks.
This New Kind of Methodology and Strategy represent an important resource for
Strategic Multiscale Systems Engineering
The increase in both complexity and degree of interconnectivity in such systems, provides
unprecedented opportunities for new capabilities, and at the same time drives the need for more
advanced methods for understanding, building, and managing such systems in autonomic ways.
Furthermore, this complexity has added to the fragility of such systems. As the interconnectivity across
multiple systems has increased tremendously, so has the impact of cascading effects across the entire
set of systems, for even small failures in a subset of any of the component systems. These new realities
have led to the need for more adaptive analysis of systems, with methods that go beyond the static
modeling and simulation methods of the past, to new methods, such as InfoSymbiotics/DDDAS, which
augment and enhance the system models through continually updated information from monitoring and
control/feedback aspects of the system.
DDDAS is a paradigm, where data are dynamically integrated into an executing simulation to augment
or complement the application model, and, where conversely the executing simulation steers the
measurement (instrumentation and control) processes of the application system. In essence, the
InfoSymbiotics/DDDAS control loop unifies complex computational models of a system with the real
time data-acquisition and control aspects of the system, and engenders transformative advances in
computational modeling of applications and in instrumentation and control systems, and in particular
those that represent dynamic, complex systems.
This synergistic and symbiotic feedback control loop between applications/simulations and
measurements is a novel technical direction that can open new domains in the capabilities of
simulations with high potential payoff, and create applications with new and enhanced capabilities. It
has the potential to transform the way science and engineering are done, and induce a major beneficial
impact in the way many functions in our society are conducted, such as manufacturing, commerce,
transportation, hazard prediction/management, and medicine, to name a few. Traditional application
simulations are conducted with static data inputs. In the new dynamic, data driven application systems
field collected data will be used in an "online" fashion to steer the simulations and vice versa the
simulations could be used to control experiments or other field measurements. Thus the
applications/simulations and the experiments (or field data) become a symbiotic feedback system rather
than the usual static, disjoint and serialized approaches.
The IMSE Framwork and the “Strategic Multiscale Science - Engineering - Society
Collaboratory Cyber & Physical Framework” represent a new conceptual, methodological and
implementation context to design manufacturing & processing systems and related M&C
architectures
Multiscale Network-based Production systems are designed to get more flexibility and to fully exploit the new
technologies of production, such as Bio-manufacturing, Adaptive Manufacturing. Micro and Nanoscale
Manufacturing. Multiscale Model-based Monitoring and Control Systems become key elements for a
successful implementation of Innovative Systems of Production and Integrated Systems Design and Production.
The IMSE Framework has been conceived to represent a comprehensive “Integrated Platform” to
contribute the a successful implementation of “Smart Manufacturing” Strategies
Networked and Multiscale Production Systems are designed to get more flexibility and introduce new
manufacturing technologies and strategies (Bio-manufacturing, Adaptive Manufacturing. Micro and Nanoscale
Manufacturing). A wide range of Computational Methods (Modeling and Simulation) and new Multiscale
Systems Monitoring and Control become key elements for a successful implementation of Innovative
Production Systems and related Integrated R&D and Engineering Frameworks.
In the future, Multiscale Science and Engineering Integration will be an ever more critical issue for
Manufacturing/Processing taking into account three fundamental issues :
Technological Systems will integrate nano – micro - meso – macro technologies and structures. Processing
and Manufacturing will have, to address nano – micro – meso – macro issues in an integrated fashion. The
development of the “Additive Manufacturing” field is an important step towards “Multiscale
Manufacturing”.
Environmental Issues are more and more conditioning Materials Processing and Manufacturing strategies
and approaches. A clear trend is the transition from a “Waste Management” approach to a “Clean or Green
by Design” strategy which rests on:
a fundamental (multiscale science – based) understanding of processes and their interactions with the
environment for a wide range of operational conditions including the extreme and accident ones.
New Plant and Processes Architectures and Operational Principles
Performance, optimization and operational requirements continuously pushed up call for an in depth (science
– based) control of physical and chemical structure of manufactured materials, parts and products and
understanding of the impact of even very small “defects” on materials, parts and products. That implies the
design and implementation of “Multiscale Sensing Networks” and “Multiscale Data Analysis” Schemes and
Tools integrated with Multiscale Models (Multiscale Model-Based Control)
The “Integrated Multiscale Science-Engineering (IMSE) Framework” and the “Integrated Strategic Multiscale
Science – Engineering – Society Earth and Space Cyber & Physical Framework” have a specific relevance for
the following key issues :
Integrating R&D, Design and Production in order to fully exploit synergy and innovations in the previously
quoted three sectors, checking the "manufacturability" of new products and identifying what new
technologies and production methods may be necessary
Designing new Technologies and Production Systems directly based on Scientific Knowledge and
Technological Advances
Manufacturing intrinsic hierarchical (Multiscale) structures, devices, and complex systems (Multiscale
Processing and Manufacturing : from nano to macro)
Designing a New Generation of Multiscale Science-based Measurement (Monitoring) and Control
Technologies and Networks which are a specific requirement to precisely characterize manufacturing
systems for performance assurance
Modeling and Simulating, using Multiscale methods the various production processes in order to predict the
quality of the results of the various phase of the process from materials to the finished products.
Analyzing, Modeling and Simulating the whole Product Life Cycle considering
interactions with the environment and recyclability.
Developing new Multiscale Data Representation and Data Analytics and Multiscale Data – Modeling
Integration Methods.
Optimizing production processes and technologies as a function of cost reduction, the production yield,
environmental sustainability, safety, flexibility and energy efficiency
Analyzing, taking full advantage of the scientific knowledge, the whole spectrum of (multiscale) interactions
between processing and manufacturing units and the environment and humans for all the nominal and off-
nominal operational conditions, including accidents. (this issue is becoming more and more critical and
conditioning)
Designing new Multiscale Workflow Management Systems
Designing New Frameworks and Strategies for Education and Training (Multiscale Education, Information
and Communication Framework: Chapter 4)
Important partners are the Fraunhofer Institute for Manufacturing Engineering and Automation IPA and the
Institute of Industrial Manufacturing and Management (IFF) at the University of Stuttgart. Smart
Manufacturing is implemented thanks to the Smart Factory concept. Smart Factory is a Cyber Physical
Systems which manages a wide range of resources distributed over a wide range of space scales and
operating over a wide spectrum of time scales (Networked and Multiscale Manufacturing Systems).
Multiscale refers both to the spatial and temporal scales which characterize the whole spectrum of
manufacturing processes and the hierarchy of multiscale physical and bio-chemical phenomena
and processes which at the root of manufacturing processes and that describe the dynamics of
materials, components, sub-systems and systems to be manufactured.
Networked and multi-scale manufacturing systems are designed to get more flexibility to respond to
dramatic changes in the world market and take full advantage of new manufacturing technologies like Bio
manufacturing, Adaptive Manufacturing. Micro and Nanoscale Manufacturing. Multiscale Modeling and
Simulation (and ever more Strategic Multiscale) becomes a key Enabling Methodology for a successful
implementation of this new approach. New Integrated Multiscale Science – Engineering Cyber (Computing,
Information and Communication) Infrastructures are a fundamental Elements to implement Smart factory
and Smart Manufacturing Concepts and Strategies
Among all the new advances in science and technology in the past decade, few have reached the levels of
prominence or skepticism quite like additive manufacturing. Some see it as revolutionary. To others, it is
overhyped. Yet, as new techniques and approaches become accessible and desired Economies of scale
are realized, additive manufacturing does not appear to be going away any time soon. Its role is becoming
more defined, and manufacturers, industry leaders, and even individual “makers” are exploring new and
innovative uses for it.
While the future does appear bright for additive manufacturing, there are still significant hurdles that must
be overcome. Foremost among these is accessing a wider range of materials. Some are too brittle for high
fidelity parts at scale, some are too toxic for widespread consumption, and some are too expensive.
At the core of this limited range of materials being used in additive manufacturing is a lack of understanding
of the material science that gives these materials their properties. Making multiple physical prototypes
extends the design cycle, can increase costs, and requires extra testing. As a result, many engineers and
designers tend to limit themselves to a core group of materials that they understand well, confining their
creativity and stifling the potential of their finished product.
However, there is a solution on the horizon that can push additive past its current “tipping point.” Imagine a
design process where bespoke materials are tailored for their specific use. How does this become
possible? It comes from the advent of a new capability in materials and product design: multiscale
modeling. The accuracy of today’s modeling and simulation software has evolved to the point that
an integrated solution can enable designers to model a product from the atomic scale up to full size
in silico. Scientists and engineers can visualize the molecular systems that give their materials
their properties, gaining deeper understanding of how and why their materials work. They can
manipulate the immediate environment, test different formulations or functional groups, and
optimize desired properties without needing a single physical experiment. With these material
properties they can then design and optimize parts to meet more complex and specific design
requirements. They can test different shapes, orientations and manufacturing methods to meet and
go beyond current design limitations to create a new world of manufacturing. These possibilities
flip the traditional design and manufacturing paradigm on its head; where a designer limited the
capabilities of his final part based on the constraints of the materials available, now a designer
crafts a material to fit the desired parameters of his final part.
Couple this with other burgeoning technologies like additive manufacturing, and the possibilities
grow exponentially. Single parts can be seamlessly made from multiple materials, or even
gradients of materials.
Runs can be optimized for any number of parameters: cost, mechanical strength, heat resistance or
sustainability. Batches can be made to order, with little to no retooling or recalibrating of
machinery.
In short, the world of manufacturing is on the verge of changing forever. And this vision is not as far off as it
would appear. It is growing. It is coming.
Now researchers at MIT have developed an approach that allows them to turn their designs into reality.
In just a few hours, they can move directly from a multiscale computer model of a synthetic material to
the creation of physical samples.
In a paper published online June 17 in Advanced Functional Materials, associate professor Markus
Buehler of the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering and co-authors describe their
approach. Using computer-optimized designs of soft and stiff polymers placed in geometric patterns that
replicate nature’s own patterns, and a 3-D printer that prints with two polymers at once, the team
produced samples of synthetic materials that have fracture behavior similar to bone. One of the
synthetics is 22 times more fracture-resistant than its strongest constituent material, a feat achieved by
altering its hierarchical design.
“This research is a wonderful example of how 3-D printing can be used to fabricate complex
architectures that emulate those found in nature,” says. The power of integrating design, computational
modeling and 3-D assembly will only be fully realized when these tools are combined to generate
entirely new ‘metamaterials’ — in other words, ones that today do not exist in either engineered or
biological forms. This work represents an important step toward this objective.” Jennifer Lewis, the
Hansjörg Wyss Professor of Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard University
This Program has a special relevance for all the Industrial Area: It can represents a first step to define
New Integrated Strategies for the Multiscale Design and Manufacturing of a New Generation of
“Inherently” Multiscale Hierarchical Products with extended performance and functionalities
The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is soliciting innovative research proposals in
the area of processes and technology for assembly of systems, components, and materials at millimeter
scale or larger from nanometer scale constituents. Proposed research should investigate innovative
approaches that enable revolutionary advances in science, devices, or systems. Specifically excluded is
research that primarily results in evolutionary improvements to the existing state of practice. The Atoms to
Product (A2P) program seeks to make the use and application of nanometer scale material properties and
devices a viable option to the system designer. To that end, the primary goal of the A2P program is to
develop the technologies and processes required to assemble nanometer scale constituents into systems,
components, or materials that are at least millimeter scale in size. A secondary, yet key program interest is
exploitation of unique nanometer scale characteristics. The systems, components, or materials that result
from the A2P assembly process will leverage unique material properties and/or the miniaturization,
material and geometric heterogeneity, and ability to build in three dimensions made possible by assembly
from the nanometer scale. Assembling nanometer scale constituents into millimeter scale products requires
assembly across six length-scales, i.e., a finished product that is 1,000,000 times larger than the basic
building blocks. It is illustrative to consider how assembly is accomplished over multiple length-scales in
both naturally occurring and man-made systems. In biological assemblies, many length-scales are crossed
using a structural hierarchy. Lipid molecules self-assemble into cell walls, cells are assembled into organs,
and organs combine to form organisms. In similar fashion, man-made assembly typically begins with
millimeter-size and larger components (e.g., nuts, bolts, integrated circuits, wires) that are assembled into
larger subsystems (e.g., displays, gearboxes, fans), which frequently fall in the 10-centimeter to meter scale.
Subsystems are then assembled into final products. A recurring theme in both biological and non-biological
assembly across multiple length-scales is that the size “jump” between each hierarchical level is rarely more
than two or three length scales (100-1000x) The A2P program structure is defined by two hierarchical steps
required to assemble across the six length-scales from the nanometer scale to the millimeter scale (Figure
1). The first step, Technical Area 1 (TA1), is called “Atoms to Micron” and focuses on assembly of (~10-9
m) constituents into micron scale (~10-6 m) components or materials. The second step, Technical Area 2
(TA2), is called “Micron to Millimeter” and addresses assembly of the micron-scale (~10-6 m) Atoms to
Micron output into systems, components, or materials that are at least at the millimeter scale (~10-3 m).
Multiscale Processing
It is interesting to highlight that the Processing area has been and it is one of the most sensitive and reactive field
to the multiscale trend and challenge.
Design of New Equipments Based on Scientific Knowledge and New Modes of Production
The development of an integrated conceptual framework, which links basic scientific understanding to
engineering and technological issues, makes it possible to conceive innovative equipments based on first
principles. The design of new operating modes in chemical engineering and manufacturing can be linked to
a science-based approach. Innovative engineering applications of reversed flow, cyclic processes, unsteady
operations, extreme conditions, high-pressure technologies, and supercritical media, are largely dependent
on:
The ability to couple scientific and engineering knowledge and models.
The development of integrated science – engineering model based predictive control schemes
The development and application of new micro and nano sensors and Integrated Sensor Processing devices
The development of new devices (MEMS and NEMS, micro-reactors, micro separators, and micro
analyzers) is, making possible accurate control of reaction conditions with respect to mixing, quenching, and
temperature profile.
MBE places high-fidelity predictive models at the heart of process design or operational analysis.
Initial project effort is put into constructing a high-fidelity model of the plant or process that is
predictive over the entire range of interest.
This model is then used to optimise design or operation, exploring a wide design space rapidly and at
low cost, and applying optimisation techniques to determine answers directly rather than by trial and
error simulation.
MBE is based on three core approaches:
First-principles modelling, where all relevant phenomena are described to an appropriate level
of chemical engineering first principles representation. This typically involves detailed mass
transfer, heat transfer and reaction equations.
Multiscale modelling, where phenomena at all relevant scales are taken into account. The
diagram on the right shows, for example, the scales that need to be taken into account for a multi
tubular reactor. The phenomena occurring at a microscale in a catalyst pore can have a significant
influence on the overall (macroscale) reactor design.
Integrated Multiscale Science – Engineering Methodologies and Strategies are today applied to
design new Industrial Processes and Systems
Objective:
A new technology towards breakthrough innovation in solvent based post-combustion CO2 capture for
enhanced energy efficiency, improved cost effectiveness and increased process sustainability and
environmental benefits is developed. Advances in the identification of highly performing solvents and
solvent blends in CO2 absorption, the design of innovative separation equipment internals, and the
development of optimal process configurations enable a cost of approximately 16 euros per ton of
CO2 captured. Such achievement can have a tremendous impact in several industrial applications
such as gas-fired, coal-fired, and lignite-fired power plants as well as quick-lime production plants
where solvent based post-combustion CO2 absorption can become a viable solution.
The current project adopts a holistic approach towards the fulfillment of the outlined goals
accomplished through research and development at multiple levels within an integrated framework.
At the molecular level, the use of computer aided molecular design tools supported by accurate and
adequately validated thermodynamic models enables the exhaustive investigation of the performance
of multiple solvents and solvent blends in post-combustion CO2 absorption processes. The solvent
blends are systematically assessed and rank-ordered against their performance towards the
satisfaction of relevant process, economic, operability and sustainability criteria. The optimal solvents
and solvent blends are expected to exhibit significantly better characteristics than currently used
solvents in terms of energy requirements and overall environmental impact.
At the unit operations level, the design of innovative process configurations and column internals that
are specifically tailored for the employed solvents enhance the efficiency of the absorption based
separation. Advanced modeling and optimization tools in conjunction with thorough experimental
procedures ensure the achievement of high mass transfer rates and optimal flow patterns.
At the plant level, the comprehensive analysis of the interactions among an existing power plant and
the added solvent based post-combustion CO2 capture unit enables the optimal allocation of
resources for improved energy savings and the efficient integration of the new CO2 capture process
components.
Pilot plant testing of the newly developed technology under operating condition encountered in
practical applications ensures process stability and consistency.
Several industrial applications in power production and chemicals manufacture are scheduled for
comprehensive study, analysis, and evaluation thus resolving all related technical and engineering
issues.
devising a strategy to select the right type of sensors [Multiscale Science – Engineering Information and
Space and Information – Driven strategies] to monitor the previously identified key variables over the
right range of space and time scales at a well-defined degree of accuracy and reliability.
identifying relationships and interdependencies between physical and bio-chemical phenomena and
processes at the different space and time scales and resolution levels integrating monitoring data and
computational modeling [construction of Multiscale Knowledge Maps]
define the field monitoring systems architecture at all the scales and for all the media. This task call for a set
of specific sub-tasks :
identification of specific sensor and actuator technologies to monitor and analyze specific phenomena
and processes (information-driven analysis)
identification of the places where sensors and actuators are to be installed
definition of an overall monitoring and controlling architecture and related operational modes
definition of the characteristics of the models to be used to analyze and fuse field data and implement
control schemes
identification of data/information to be used for R&D and Engineering activities external to the field
environment, but related to it
the previous sub-tasks allow to define requirements to be met by the Computing, Information and
Communication (CIC) Technology Infrastructure (HW and SW)
Integrated Space – Time Environmental/Pollution Analysis. The Multiscale Framework enables a new
“Integrated Space-Time” approach to environmental and pollution issues. “Integrated Space-Time” approach
means that in this new methodological and conceptual context, we can link together inside a unified context
data, information, knowledge and models which characterize the three fundamental phases which
characterize the pollution process :
Generation Phase (generation of pollutants inside a technological system)
Transportation/Diffusion Phase through different media (air, water, land)
Interaction or Biomedical Phase( interaction with biological systems (humans included)
In order to accomplish the previously described analysis and monitoring activities we can devise a special set of
Multiscale Maps:
A) Multiscale Industrial/Civil/Infrastructural - Environmental/Human System Structural Maps which
describe the Architecture/Structure and Relationships and Interdependencies (data and physical flow) of
Industrial/Civil/Infrastructural and the Environmental/Human Systems to be analyzed and monitored at several
levels of resolution, scale and detail..
B) Multiscale Monitoring From Space To Earth System Maps which describe the network (Space, Air, Ground
and Underground, Water) of monitoring systems, their interconnections and data flows for specific sets of
physical, chemical and biochemical phenomena and processes to be monitored and the related “Information
Potential” of the Monitoring Systems: that means what kind of phenomena at what space and time resolutions
and scales and at what level of accuracy and reliability can be monitored over a spectrum of operational
conditions.
C) Multiscale Ecological, Civil, Infrastructural, Industrial Systems (any level of the hierarchy)” - (Nominal
and Off-Nominal) Operational Modes - Environmental Impact Maps These Maps represent a new
“Generation” of Maps specifically conceived to evaluate the impact (all the typologies: pollutants, heat,
waste,…) on the Environment of Manufacturing/Processing “Systems” for a wide range of operational
conditions (including the extreme and accidental ones) and design solutions. Maps describe relationships among
Manufacturing System (any level), its Operational Modes and related Environmental Impact (any kind).
Specific “Multiscale Physical and Biochemical Maps” describe the spectrum of physical, chemical and
biochemical phenomena and processes characterizing the interaction between Industrial and Environmental
Systems for a wide range of geographic scales and over multiple time scales.
The previously described Maps are interrelated and hierarchically organized. Maps can be integrated to form
“Knowledge Domains”
Note : Multiscale and Information-driven Analysis Schemes are well suited to carry out these tasks
Tools, concepts and methods (Hierarchies, Map, Science-Engineering Information Space, Multiscale Science-
Engineering Data Analysis Schemes, Information-Driven strategies,…..) are better suited than existing
methodologies to both take advantage of progress in CIC technologies and effectively address complexity of the
systems to be monitored and analyzed.
The key distinguishing element, in this area, is that new “ Strategic Multiscale Multidisciplinary Science-based
Cooperative Environments” fully integrate two Cyberinfrastructures. which normally do not follow common
strategies and objectives:
Text and figures are drawn from the Article: Virtual Testing of Aircraft Structures - CEAS Aeronaut J
(2011) 1:83–103 - Morten G. Ostergaard • Andrew R. Ibbotson • Olivier Le Roux • Alan M. Prior -
Deutsches Zentrum fu¨r Luft- und Raumfahrt e.V. 201-)
4 Multi-scale analysis
In the context of virtual testing of aircraft structures, the term multi-scale analysis describes the process
of sequentially coupling different analysis models at different scales and levels of fidelity. This multi-
scale approach requires a Level 1 prediction of the behaviour of the complete structure through a
nonlinear finite element model. This is then used to define the driving boundary conditions for the next
models at the more refined modelling scales, as illustrated in Fig. 3. Modelling detail is increased as
successive analyses ‘zoom in’ on structural regions, identified as being potentially strength-critical. At
each level of model refinement, different modelling idealization principles, element types and even
material and joint models might be employed. However, the underlying principle is to maintain a
consistent interface and link between the different modelling scales used. All modelling and analysis
methods used must be fully validated against structural testing. It is important to understand that, unlike
traditional modelling techniques, where direct links between model scales are provided using built-in
detail meshes or super-elements, the multi-scale analysis process discussed in this article are based on
sub modelling technology available in the Abaqus software……
However, full potentialities of Multiscale Science - Engineering Integration inside the Virtual Testing are still
to be fully exploited. In the new conceptual and methodological context described in this document, classical
“Virtual Testing” concept should be complemented by a new concept which can be referred to as “Strategic
Multiscale Science – Engineering - Society Virtual Testing”. Classical concepts can be regarded as a
particular case of this more general concept and strategy. In this new context Classical “Virtual Testing”
approach is applied when “Applicability Conditions” can be met and “Predictability Criteria” (see Paragraph
2.2.5) can be reliably evaluated also thanks to the “Knowledge” gained with Strategic Multiscale Science-
Engineering Maps and the “Strategic Multiscale Science – Engineering” Information Space” concept and
method.
The concept of Multiscale Modeling and Simulation as “Knowledge Integrators and Multipliers” and the
extension of the concept of “Model” to the Experimental, Testing and Sensing Worlds give a new extended
meaning to the term “Virtual” because we can use “Modeling and Simulation” as “Pivotal and Integration
Elements” to shape and guide Experimentation, Real Testing and Sensing also outside the range of
Modeling and Simulation Verification and Validation areas (Modeling and Simulation Exploratory Mode).
This concept also allows to establish integrated two – way relationships between Experimentation (Science
Area), from one side, and Testing and Sensing (Engineering and Operational Areas) from the other side.
when, in particular, we have to deal with very complex physical and biochemical phenomena and
processes and when both modeling and testing produce anomalous and unusual results. In other terms,
“Strategic Multiscale Modeling and Simulation” become ever more central and important for Technology
innovation, Advanced Engineering and Manufacturing/ Processing than they are in the classical view.
Multiscale Modeling and Simulation as “Knowledge Integrators and Multipliers” become of critical
relevance to
develop accurate and comprehensive models of experimentation, characterization and testing
apparatus and their interaction with the “System” under analysis/testing
better evaluate potentialities as well as limits of existing experimental, characterization and testing
equipments and related operational modes (fundamental condition to “rationally” reduce testing
activities)
design new Multiscale Experimentation, Characterization and Testing Systems
outline new Multiscale Experimental, Characterization and Testing operational modes
In this new context, Information – Driven Analysis Schemes are key guiding principles to shape Integrated
Strategic Multiscale Multiresolution, Experimental, Characterization and Testing Strategies and integrate
them inside a more general R&D and Engineering/Manufacturing Analysis and Design Strategy.
The “Multiscale Science - Engineering Information Space” concept and method, the “Information Driven
Multiscale Science - Engineering Analysis Schemes” (described in the Paragraphs 3.3.1 and 3.3.2),
“Multiscale Maps” and “Knowledge Domains” are the fundamental theoretical elements we can build upon
the “design” of Multiscale Experimentation, Characterization and Testing Technologies and Strategies and
their integration with Multiscale Computational Methods and Strategies.
The previously described theoretical and methodological apparatus allows us to formulate rational hypotheses
about what Experiments, Tests and Sensing measures are really needed to get the information we think to be
necessary to characterize the behaviour of a “System” at a predefined level of accuracy and reliability, and,
accordingly, assess the “risk” associated to replace experimentation, testing and Sensing with computation for a
specific task. This a fundamental condition to replace in a “rational” way testing with computation. In this new
context, we can design and plan highly complex Multiscale Multilevel Testing Strategies guided by “Multiscale
Computational Models” and related Multiscale Maps and Multiscale Information Spaces. Data, Information and
Knowledge “flow” in a seamless and fully integrated way among Experimentation, Real Testing and
Computational Worlds (Virtual Testing).
It is important to highlight that with the new theoretical and methodological apparatus, we can easily
integrate inside Testing Strategies even “Information Capabilities” of several Experimental Facilities to
analyze and explain strange or anomalous testing data .
Multiscale Maps from Experimentation can contribute to understand possible Testing Anomalies and Problems.
This kind of integrated analyses can, in turn, suggest new Experimental and Testing activities other than new
Computational Models. As far as a System or a “System of Systems” Testing is concerned, a problem is to
transfer, in a structured way, information and knowledge get from testing carried out at a scale to the higher or
lower scales and resolution levels along the whole chain:
From testing carried out to characterize behaviour of materials (basic constituents of any System) [coupon
testing] to testing of devices, components, sub-systems and the global system.
From testing performed at the level of a System down to the device and material levels.
We can correlate Multiscale Maps and Knowledge Domains for all the scales and resolution levels.
Bottom–Up: Multiscale Maps built from materials testing can be a useful basis to develop upon testing
strategies for devices. Multiscale Maps built from devices testing are applied to improve testing strategies
for components and so on along the scale.
Top–Down: results from testing at a scale is fundamental to set boundary conditions for testing performed at
lower scales
It is of Fundamental Relevance highlighting that “ Integrated Strategic Multiscale Science - Engineering
- Society Earth and Space Collaboratory Cyber & Physical Framework plays a key role to shape the
needed Networks of Multiscale Multidisciplinary Interactions.
An important component of the “Rational Design of Strategic Multiscale Testing Strategies” is:
The Strategic Multiscale Multiphysics Multimode Characterization and Testing: Important advances in
experimentation, characterization and testing techniques and in the Cyberinfrastructural environments
which allow to link together a wide range of characterization and testing (laboratory testing, development
testing, operational testing, certification testing) facilities and equipments, open the way to the integration of
several characterization and testing devices and systems operating in a range of domains, in different
modalities at a whole spectrum of resolution and scale levels to get data over a wide range of space and time
scales. In this context the “Strategic Multiscale Science-Engineering-Society Knowledge Integrator and
Multiplier Computing, Information and Communication (CIC) Infrastructural Framework” plays an
important role.
The “Rational Design of Characterization and Testing Strategies is linked to a full integration of
“Computational Multiscale” with the previously defined “Multiscale Characterization and Testing” (and
Multiscale Experimentation when results coming from Characterization and Testing call for a more in-depth
analyses and understanding) in the context of the “Modeling and Simulation as Knowledge Integrators and
Multipliers” Vision. This integration is made possible by the combined use of the “Information Driven
Multiscale Science - Engineering Analysis Schemes” and the “Strategic Multiscale Science – Engineering
Information Space” concept :
“Information Driven Multiscale Science-Engineering Analysis Schemes” allow us to better understand
the network of relationships (over a wide range of scale and physical and chemical domains) among
design, structural, compositional, physico-chemical variables, parameters and related dynamical
behavior and what kind of information at what level of detail and fidelity and uncertainty is needed to
accomplish a specific analysis task.
Integrated Multiscale Science - Engineering Data Analysis Schemes allow professionals to better
analyze, fuse and understand the growing amount of (multiscale multiphysics) data collected from
experimental, characterization and testing activities.
The “Science - Engineering Information Space” concept and method enables us to define what part of
this information can be obtained from computations and what part from experimentation and/or
characterization and testing.
The “Rational Design of Strategic Multiscale Characterization and Testing” Strategies foresees the
integration of Top-Down and Bottom-Up approaches. A key goal of the “Rational Design of (Multiscale)
Characterization and Testing ” is to reduce as more as possible the number of tests. In a long term perspective,
some people talk about “Zeroing” testing. This Objective should be supported by rigorous Theoretical and
Methodological Analyses and extensive Experimental activities. However, the reduction process, inside our
view, could and should be inserted inside a new conceptual and methodological context. Thanks to the
theoretical and methodological apparatus described in the previous paragraphs, we can identify what
characterization activities and tests are really needed to get the information we think to be necessary to
characterize the behaviour of a “Material”, “Device” an “System” (any level of complexity) at a predefined level
of accuracy, fidelity and uncertainty and, accordingly, assess the “risk” associated to the replacement of testing
with computation. This a fundamental condition to replace in a “rational” way testing with computation. Of
course we refer to “Strategic Multiscale Science – based Computations”.
We should replace the term “Testing Reduction” with the term “Multiscale Rational Design of
Testing” which entails a new Strategy based upon the Integration of Characterization and
Testing with Experimentation and Modeling & Simulation inside a “Coherent Conceptual and
Methodological Context” based upon methods and environments described in the Chapter 2
and Chapter 3.
Coordinators: Ehrenfried Zschech - Fraunhofer Institute for Ceramic Technologies and Systems IKTS,
Dresden, Germany and Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden Center for Nan Analysis (DCN), Dresden,
Germany
The Materials Characterization Cluster is a new European initiative that has the following specific aims:
- Performing research, development and innovation in the field of multi-scale materials characterization to
increase the competitiveness of the European industry
- Bridging R&D in the fields of nanotechnology and materials to close-to-market activities in Europe (“research
to market”)
- Utilizing European resources (infrastructure hubs and their organization, competencies, etc.) in a better way.
A close link between modeling and characterization activities in Europe is needed and will be considered as one
of the fundaments of the new initiative. As an example, the focus of the Materials Characterization Cluster’s
Model Validation activities will be on the materials characterization part, thereby mirroring the EMMC Working
Group on Model Validation in terms of expertise. The EMMC WG represents mainly the need from the
modeling perspective and includes modeling experts, whereas the Materials.
Characterization Cluster represents what can and needs to be done from the characterization side, based on
characterization tools and methods expertise. In industries that have already adopted the (multi-scale) modeling
approach (e.g. microelectronics/semiconductor industry), modeling and simulation is done to provide estimates
for product performance and reliability (including the understanding and evaluation of degradation kinetics in
materials and failure mechanisms in devices). To get the expected estimates, accurate multi-scale materials data
are needed as input for multi-scale simulation, and experimental data are needed to validate and to calibrate
models.
develop a “Materials Characterization Initiative for Europe” with hubs in the field of materials
characterization (customer-oriented Centers of Competence in a special topic area and European
User Centers with a defined organizational structure)
develop a network within Europe to other hubs with key competence in complementary topic areas
and to regional partners
provide a European strategy of infrastructure development and use, considering industrial
requirements
provide a European strategy for investments and for future topic areas needed (models, on
European level, in combination with regional resources), in close interaction with the equipment
industry.
In the infrastructure each laboratory has access to a variety of expertise and associated testing facilities. The
application focus areas of the involved partner are wind turbines, transportation, mechanical components,
civil infrastructure, bridges, buildings, offshore applications. The competences cover material science and
technology, metals and composites, material mechanics and testing on all scales.
The overall objectives are to create a multi-scale approach for modelling, experimental characterization
and processing of complex structures made of metals, concrete and composite materials, so that
optimization can be made at all relevant length scales (material, substructure and component), accounting
for imperfections.
Facilities at Risø DTU
Facilities available are: In large scale testing and field monitoring: Civil infrastructure and Maritime
structures, wind turbine blades and components (tower, drive train, subcomponents) For Sub-structure and
components: General substructure and component lab. Hybrid testing. Combined environmental and
mechanical testing. Materials testing: Materials testing under controlled environment, fracture and fatigue,
high strain rates, General materials testing, fracture mechanical testing, fatigue, Nano and Micro-testing:
ESEM with mechanical loading capabilities. Key measuring techniques: Relevant state-of-the-art measuring
techniques span from conventional analogue systems measuring for example displacement and strain in a
single point or over a small gauge length, to modern advanced digital systems able to monitor displacements
and deformations over a large area by use of Digital Image Correlation (DIC) and strains along fibres using
fiber optics. Complementary inspection and evaluation techniques that can be applied in real time will also
be required to return sub-surface failure indications.
Services and type of research offered by the infrastructure
The services offered by the infrastructure is to provide leading edge expertise and facilities for multi-scale
research and experimentation. The competences are to
Provide a ‘one-stop-shop’ platform for multi-scale experimental civil and mechanical engineering
research related to materials and structures
Provide unique experimental facilities and expertise required to develop new materials, products and
structures for innovation
Support teaching at undergraduate, graduate and postgraduate levels and receive funds from the involved
universities for this purpose.
Equipment in four different areas is applied for representing the expertise of the infrastructure: (i) Large
scale testing and field monitoring. (ii) Sub-structure and component testing. (iii) Materials testing and (iv)
Nano- and micro-scale testing. Furthermore, key measuring equipment not tied to a specific length scale is
an integrated element.
The following Box describes an interesting example of Multiscale Science - Engineering Testing.
This kind of approach can have a wide application throughout an extended spectrum of
Engineering fields even in the Civil and Infrastructural ones
3) Definition of Multiscale Architecture/Structure the “System” for which the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)
has to be performed. Multiscale Architectural/ Structural Maps can be used
Modeling at several levels of scale, resolution and details the Life Cycle System would allow
to carry out What – If , AoA and Sensitivity Analyses. We can envision the development of a
“Virtual Multiscale Life Cycle Engineering Machine”
a.2) The basic need,, as a direct consequence of the previously highlighted “Systems Complexity
Challenge”, is to synthesize, inside a coherent and comprehensive Vision, Framework and Application
Strategy, a wide spectrum of Scientific, Technological and Engineering Knowledge and Solutions..
This new “Scenario” can represent the context inside which we can develop a New Concept and
Vision: Integrated Strategic Multiscale Science – based “Intelligent” Societal Systems Design,
Innovation and Sustainable Development.
New Education, Information and Communication Languages and Environments based upon Multiscale
Modeling and Simulation, Virtual and Augmented Reality technologies can be a strategic answer.
e) New Forms of Urban Governance and Organisation which can take full advantage of Modeling and
Simulation, Data Analysis, Systems Design Techniques and Visualization Technologies. Modeling
Integrates Data and Information from a wide range of sources and turn them into a form of
“Formalized Knowledge” which represents the basis to conceive and design Policy Strategies
evaluating pros and cons of several alternatives and uncertainties.
f) A New Generation of “Integrated Strategic Multiscale Data-Models Urban/Regional
Operational Systems”. A continuously Integration of Data collected by a wide spectrum Networks of
Sensing Systems allows to:
Design “Active Infrastructures” which respond and adapt themselves to a wide range of
operational conditions (including the extreme and accident ones). This is a new field which is foreseen
to play an increasing role and importance in the future (Interesting field for new ICT & Computing
technologies & solutions and Innovative Materials/Structures).
In this context is of paramount importance monitoring phenomena and processes over a full range of
space and time scales and analyzing related interactions and interdependencies. The identification
and the analysis of such problems is of crucial importance for the sustainability and resilience of
Urban and Regional Systems and the capability to reliably evaluate Societal Systems Evolution over
short, medium and long time periods. Integrated Multiscale Multi Area Data with Modeling Strategies
can represent a Strategic Resource to foresee and manage Risks, Development Processes,
Uncertainties and Hazards in the Urban and Regional Systems. A much more informed understanding
of risks in modern quickly evolving Societies is required which involves new data, new technologies,
and new collective approaches to decision-making. The notion of Cities and Regions as strongly
coupled systems that generate unexpected and surprising dynamics needs to be understood and the
introduction of new technologies into Cities and Regions can change the nature of this dynamics, not
necessarily for the better. Our Challenge is to develop adaptive technologies and methodologies that
will outsmart the “Smart Cities” and “Smart Regions”, anticipating their dynamics.
g) A continuous monitoring and integrated review of the real behaviour of Urban and Regional
Systems from several point of views (economic, industrial, ecological ,financial, social, resilience,…)
represent a fundamental element to ensure a well-balanced growth and development over time.
Accordingly, a fundamental Challenge is to develop comprehensive and reliable Analysis Schemes
and related Success/Failure Evaluation Criteria which can go beyond the classical approaches: all is
good all is beautiful or generic, ideological not rationally motivated and well-documented critics
k) Taking into account what has been highlighted in the previous Items, “Virtual Strategic Multiscale
Modeling and Simulation Time Machines” (Paragraph 4.5) could perform “Rational and
Comprehensive Analyses” applying well defined Success/Failure Evaluation Criteria and link daily
situation to medium and long term development plans, is a new “Reference Challenge”
The following Box reproduces some observations about the most relevant issues characterizing
Urban Systems highlighted in the “GLOBAL SYSTEMS SCIENCE (GSS) ORIENTATION PAPER
BACKGROUND MATERIAL” Document. The Document also includes 159 contributions to the EU
– FET consultation process, 4 workshop reports on GSS carried out during 2013 and 10 selected
posts from www.global-systems-science.eu.
Note: Comments by the author of the Report are inserted inside square brackets
Pag. 12 -……... Indeed, almost all problems arising to decision makers in a city or in a city
network share the following characteristics:
1. They involve many different heterogeneous systems, like for example the transportation
systems, the behavior of citizens, themselves influenced by their social networks, or the energy
system – those of course depending on the problem addressed. [Multisectoral
Interdependencies and Interactions]
2. These systems evolve at different time and space scale. [Multiscale Systems
Dynamics]
3. They are coupled (the dynamics of transportation systems is impacted and impacts the social
behavior of individuals) or belong to hierarchies (one system being a subsystem of another one)
among which administrative (possibly overlapping) hierarchies. [Multisectoral Multiscale
Interdependencies and Interactions- Hierarchical Nature of Administrative
Systems]
These characteristics have the consequence that a “silo-like” approach, focused on one
subsystem or one time/space scale cannot catch the targeted behavior and the emergent
phenomena. [The need for a Global Multisectoral Multiscale Approach and
Strategy is put in evidence]
"The quality and quantity of observations really makes us constrain the models," said David Bader,
Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory scientist and lead of the E3SM project. "With the new
system, we'll be able to more realistically simulate the present, which gives us more confidence to
simulate the future."
Simulating atmospheric and oceanic fluid dynamics with fine spatial resolution is especially
challenging for ESMs. The E3SM project is positioned on the forefront of this research challenge,
acting on behalf of an international ESM effort. Increasing the number of earth-system days simulated
per day of computing time is a prerequisite for achieving the E3SM project goal. It also is important
for E3SM to effectively use the diverse computer architectures that the DOE Advanced Scientific
Computing Research (ASCR) Office procures to be prepared for the uncertain future of next-
generation machines.
A long-term aim of the E3SM project is to use Exascale machines to be procured over the next five
years. The development of the E3SM is proceeding in tandem with the Exascale Computing Initiative
(ECI). (An Exascale refers to a computing system capable of carrying out a billion billion (109 x 109 =
1018) calculations per second. This represents a thousand-fold increase in performance over that of
the most advanced computers from a decade ago).
"We are particularly interested in accurately assessing the risk of abrupt sea level rise, say more than
3 feet, sometime during this century," said Ringler.
"To accomplish this, Los Alamos constructed entirely new computer models of the ocean, land-ice
and sea-ice systems—this is a huge accomplishment by the Los Alamos modeling team."
"This model adds a much more complete representation between interactions of the energy system
and the earth system," Bader said. "The increase in computing power allows us to add more detail to
processes and interactions that results in more accurate and useful simulations than previous
models."
To address the diverse critical factors impacting the U.S. energy sector, the E3SM project is
dedicated to answering three overarching scientific questions that drive its numerical experimentation
initiatives:
Water Cycle: How does the hydrological cycle interact with the rest of the human-Earth system on
local to global scales to determine water availability and water cycle extremes?
Biogeochemistry: How do biogeochemical cycles interact with other Earth system components to
influence the energy sector?
Cryosphere Systems: How do rapid changes in cryosphere (continental and ocean ice) systems
evolve with the Earth system and contribute to sea-level rise and increased coastal vulnerability?
In the E3SM, all model components (atmosphere, ocean, land, ice) are able to employ variable
resolution to focus computing power on fine-scale processes in regions of particular interest. This is
implemented using advanced mesh-designs that smoothly taper the grid-scale from the coarser outer
region to the more refined region.
The E3SM project includes more than 100 scientists and software engineers at multiple DOE
Laboratories as well as several universities; the DOE laboratories include Argonne, Brookhaven,
Lawrence Livermore, Lawrence Berkeley, Los Alamos, Oak Ridge, Pacific Northwest and Sandia
national laboratories. In recognition of unifying the DOE earth system modeling community to
perform high-resolution coupled simulations, the E3SM executive committee was awarded the
Secretary of Energy's Achievement
Award in 2015.
In addition, the E3SM project also benefits from DOE programmatic collaborations including the
Exascale Computing Project (ECP) and programs in Scientific Discovery through Advanced
Computing (SciDAC), Climate Model Development and Validation (CMDV), Atmospheric Radiation
Measurement (ARM), Program for Climate Model Diagnosis and Intercomparison (PCMDI),
International Land Model Benchmarking Project (iLAMB), Community Earth System Model (CESM)
and Next Generation Ecosystem Experiments (NGEE) for the Arctic and the Tropics.
A new integrated computational climate model developed to reduce uncertainties in future climate
predictions marks the first successful attempt to bridge Earth systems with energy and economic
models and large-scale human impact data. The integrated Earth System Model, or iESM, is being
used to explore interactions among the physical climate system, biological components of the Earth
system, and human systems.
By using supercomputers such as Titan, a large multidisciplinary team of scientists led by Peter
Thornton of the US Department of Energy's (DOE's) Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) had the
power required to integrate massive codes that combine physical and biological processes in the
Earth system with feedbacks from human activity. "The model we developed and applied couples
biospheric feedbacks from oceans, atmosphere, and land with human activities, such as fossil fuel
emissions, agriculture, and land use, which eliminates important sources of uncertainty from projected
climate outcomes," said Thornton, leader of the Terrestrial Systems Modeling group in ORNL's
Environmental Sciences Division and deputy director of ORNL's Climate Change Science Institute.
Titan is a 27-petaflop Cray XK7 machine with a hybrid CPU-GPU architecture managed by the Oak
Ridge Leadership Computing Facility (OLCF), a DOE Office of Science User Facility located at ORNL.
The liaisons are crucial for helping us understand where to look for problems when they arise and
getting the best performance out of the Titan supercomputer," Thornton said.
For iESM to take the next step, the representation of land surface between coupled models must
become more consistent. The team also aims to include other dimensions, including water
management and storage, agricultural productivity, and commodity pricing structures. This will yield
better information about potential changes in water resource availability, allocation, and shortages
under different climates. "These improvements are vital since there is concern that fresh water
resources might be the pinch point that gets felt first," Thornton said. ACME version 1 will be publicly
released in late-2017 for analysis and use by other researchers. Results from the model will also
contribute to the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project, which provides foundational material for
climate change assessment reports.
The dynamics of all the previously listed “Entities” develop over a wide range of space and time scales
inside a full spectrum of “disciplinary” areas: science (research), engineering, social and demographic
sciences, governance theory, ecology and agriculture. It is evident that in the future two Integration
trends should be pursued also designing new ad hoc Methods and Frameworks:
Vertical: Research – Technology Development – Engineering – Economy - Society (From Nan To
Macro)
Horizontal: across disciplinary areas and Technological, Ecological, Industrial, and Socio-
Economic Sectors identifying relationships and interdependencies
Mega Region projects have been undertaken all around the World: from Europe to US and Asia. Mega
Regions are increasingly seen as a key element for the economic progress and for the international
competiveness. Environmental, Mobility and Social issues (due the very high concentration of people
and infrastructures) as well as coordination, according to integrated strategies, of all the available
human, technological and economic resources. are among the major still unsolved problems. Another
critical issue is the level of complexity of these “Huge Systems”.
Smart Cities and ever more Smart Regions are to be considered as “Complex Organisms” constituted
by a set of mutually interacting “Organs” (Organs are all the Systems and Subsystems (Water, Waste,
Energy, Communications, Transportation,…….) which constitute the whole “Complex System”. All the
Sub-Systems and Systems interact over a spectrum of space and time scales in a complex way.
Accordingly, neglecting interactions can limit or capability to understand its dynamic over the full
spectrum of operational conditions and hamper our ability to take advantage of this interactions
richness. The Human Body is a classic example of this scenario. The wide spectrum of capabilities,
functionalities and performance of the Human Body is possible because all the Organs work in
cooperation. The black side of the medal is its level of Complexity. It is not easy to understand the
network of interactions among all its “Organs” over the full spectrum of spatial and temporal scales.
Complexity of High Tech Smart Cities and Smart Regions is a critical issue that, until now did not hold
the spotlight. Complexity for Smart Cities and ever more for Smart Regions is a critical challenge but,
at the same time, can be a strategic resource. Complexity means the capability the spectrum of
functionalities integrating inside a coherent project capabilities and functionalities of sub-systems to
maximize the global output of the “Global System”. Complexity in the international literature is also
identified with the “Convergent World” term.
In the “Smart Regions” context, in particular, we have to consider another source of “Complexity”: the
dynamics for the full spectrum operational conditions (nominal and off-nominal) of wide-area
infrastructural systems which connect the cities wide-area energy grid, intercity transportation
systems, etc.
A further level of “Complexity” is referred to the fact that the categories of stakeholders using and in
some cases managing these infrastructures are different.
Accordingly, the legislation/regulations administering these various infrastructures are also different. A
“Smart Governance” System should take this issue into account. High complexity levels means the
absolute need to integrate all the stakeholder their needs and objectives:
Political leaders, managers and operators of the local and regional government.
The service operators – public or private: water, electricity, gas, communication, transport,
waste, education, etc.
End users and prosumers: inhabitants and local business representatives.
Investors: private banks, venture capitalists, pension funds, international banks.
Solution providers: technology providers, financiers and investors.
The new Framework addresses, inside an integrated context, six basic issues:
A) Development of A New Generation of new Data, Information and Knowledge Management
System (Multiscale Maps and Knowledge Domains and New Integrated Multiscale R&D and
Engineering Methodologies and Strategies)
White Book References:
- Chapter 3 Integrated Multiscale Science – Engineering (IMSE) Framework
7.1.3 Objectives
Understanding basic physical and bio-chemical phenomena at atomistic/nano, micro, macro and mega
scales underlying dynamics of single and interdependent/interrelated Environmental, Civil,
Infrastructural, Industrial, Economic and Social Systems for the full Life Cycle and for the full range of
operational modes (extreme and accident ones included).
Transferring, in a systematic way, science – based Knowledge inside the Technological Development,
Engineering Design and Manufacturing fields to develop and implement innovative “inherently”
Hierarchical Multiscale Systems (materials, structures components, products, systems) Science – Based
Technology, Engineering Design, Monitoring & Control and Construction/Manufacturing Strategies and
Solutions
Designing Complex Science - Engineering - Interconnected Networks of Civil, Societal,
Environmental, Industrial, Agricultural and Infrastructural Systems applying the new Strategic
Multiscale Science – Based Frameworks to meet increasingly large number of interdependent
environmental, safety & security, resilience, adaptivity, operational flexibility and economic viability
requirements and constraints. This goal is to a large extent dependent on the availability of new
multiscale technologies and architectural solutions
Developing new Strategic Multiscale Education, Information and Communication Languages and
Environments to create a new generation of Citizens, Professionals (any Area), Managers, Scientists,
Technologists Engineers, Politicians, Administrators fully capable to understand and manage the new
“Complex World”
Defining new cooperation and partnering schemes among political and management organizations,
citizens and social bodies, research, and industry also using the “Integrated Multiscale Science – Based
Education, Information nd Communication Framework”.
A new Integrated Platform (Integrated Strategic Multiscale Science – Engineering – Society Earth and
Space Cyber & Physical Framework running CARDE-MP andIMSDD Frameworks) ) to conceive,
design, implement and manage Research , Technology, Engineering, Manufacturing and Societal
Innovation Plans for a wide range of fields applying “Integrated Strategies” avoiding, in such a way,
useless duplication and resources dispersion and allowing for an easy transfer of achievements and
knowledge from a sector to the other ones
improving Industry Research and Technology, Engineering and Manufacturing Innovation Strategies and
Organization integrating in a structural way Science and Engineering methods and knowledge
From Atoms To Society: outlining new ways to design and manage innovative more performant “Science –
Based” Products, Processes and Systems meeting ever more tight requirements
designing new “Strategic Multiscale Science – Based” Education, Information and Communication
Frameworks and Programs to:
educate and train a new researchers, designers, industry workforce and management generation able to
take full advantage of the new R&D and Engineering/Manufacturing trends and achievements and apply
them in a timely and effective fashion.
raising awareness of citizens and public administrators and managers about the relevance of
scientific and technological advances on every aspect of societal life
Civil, Infrastructural, Industrial, Ecological, Socio – Economic – Government & Administration (Societal)
Systems can be, more and more, regarded, as “ Space and Time Distributed Systems”. All System Processes and
Activities develop and mutually interact over a wide range of space and time scales.
The emergence and development of "Metropolitan Cities", “Megacities” and “Mega-Regions” call for the
development of a new generation of Multiscale Multidisciplinary Analysis, Design and Management Systems,
Tools and Strategies which structurally incorporate the most significant scientific, technological, engineering
advances. Cities and Regions are, to a large extent, true Social, Economic and Technological “Attractors”
which give the birth to Complex Systems referred to as “Urban Clusters”. “Urban Clusters” give an inherent
Multiscale Space Economic and Industrial Dimension to Cities. Underlying concept was introduced in 1890 by
Alfred Marshall “By agglomerating in close geographical proximity, firms can receive increasing returns from
a trinity of agglomeration economies: a local pool of skilled labour, local supplier linkages, and local knowledge
spillovers.”. Clusters emphasize relative economic and political functions:
• Clusters extend beyond city administrative boundaries and they integrate complex social, economic, and
political processes.
• Clusters can be a single urban core surrounded by many smaller towns, or it can consist of several large cities
of similar sizes connected along with a hierarchy of smaller cities.
….”Within metropolitan regions, organizations are choosing a range of levels of cooperation – from
informal networks, such as those in Spain’s Bilbao and Germany’s Rhine-Ruhr, right through to
amalgamation of formerly separate urban districts as in Melbourne, Australia, and Montreal, Canada.
This has expanded across borders with the growth of international cities such as Basel-Mulhouse-
Freiburg (Switzerland, France and Germany) and Copenhagen- Malmo (Denmark and Sweden).”…….
The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences: A New Vision of “Smart City” to address
Urbanization Challenges
Cities leaders aspiring to transform their cities into models of sustainability must look beyond city
limits and include in their calculation the global flow of goods and materials into their realm, argue
researchers in the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences journal Ambio. Many cities are now
developing sustainable strategies to reduce pollution and congestion, improve the quality of life of
their citizens, and respond to growing concern about human impact on climate and the
environment. But sustainable city initiatives often ignore the environmental footprint from imported
goods and services such as food, water, and energy to cities: sustainability, it seems, stops at the
city limits. Ultimately, this will not add up to a planet able to support over nine billion people. “The
sustainability of a city can no longer be thought of in isolation from the combined resource use
and impacts of cities globally.” Urbanization is no longer a local issue, say Earth-system
researchers in a new paper, Planetary stewardship in an urbanizing world: beyond city limits,
published October 2012. Instead, the team proposes that cities analyse how resources consumed
within a city are sourced, produced and transported. They suggest one solution could be that
cities with viable sustainability strategies link together to create a vast system of cities. A feature
of such a system would be an awareness of the global resource use of cities combined. The
benefits of a network of this kind could be twofold, contributing to “planetary stewardship” whilst
providing long-term resource security for cities. “Urban areas drive much of the global changes we
see, whether in energy use, food supply, resource depletion or land-use change,” says lead
author Dr. Sybil Seitzinger, Executive Director of the International Geosphere-Biosphere
Programme, based in Stockholm Sweden.
More than half of the world’s population already lives in cities today and the urbanization trend continues: in
2030, it will be two-thirds..
Cities are facing unprecedented challenges. The pace of urbanization is increasing exponentially. Every day,
urban areas grow by almost 150 000 people, either due to migration or births. Between 2011 and 2050, the
world’s urban population is projected to rise by 72 % (i.e. from 3.6 billion to 6.3 billion) and the population
share in urban areas from 52 % in 2011 to 67 % in 2050.
Megacities are urban behemoths: urban systems with populations exceeding 10 million inhabitants.
In the last thirty years, the number of megacities in the world has increased from three to twenty. The United
States, for example, hosts three megacities: New York, Los Angeles, and the Chicago megacity. The geography
of this mega urbanization is uneven. Most megacities in the developed world are projected to reach a level of
stasis in their growth, growing at slower rates as their populations saturate their urban environment.
Meanwhile, megacities in the developing world are forecast to accelerate in their growth: Lagos megacity is
projected to expand by 48%, adding 5.2 million people (to 16.1 million total) between 2005 and 2015, Dhaka is
estimated to grow by 35% (+4.4 million, to 16.8 million total), Karachi by 31% (+3.6 million, to 15.2 million
total), Jakarta by 27% (+3.6 million, to 16.8 million total), and Kolkata by 19% (+2.7 million, to 17 million
total) over the same time period.
A new category of urban agglomeration has emerged: Gigacities (otherwise referred to as “Mega Regions. In
other contexts the definition of Mega Cities and Mega Regions can, at least partially, coincide). We can devise
Supercities of more than 50 million inhabitants, an almost unimaginable number. And yet Gigacities may soon
become reality in China. The Chinese government is reportedly planning to connect multiple cities in five
integrated urban conurbations which would together become to half a billion people by 2020. If these
ambitious plans are realized, there will be four urban areas in China each with more inhabitants than the whole
of Germany. Greater Shanghai could in theory contain more than 170 million inhabitants by 2020.
The Trend is toward the creation of Complex Integrated and Interconnected Urban, Civil and Infrastructural
Systems. These Systems represent a Strategic Opportunity to “Plan, Design, Organize and Manage” in a
rational way a New Generation of Large Economic, Social, Technological and Ecological “Entities” governed
by advanced ICT and Computing Systems.
Mega Region definition: An “Entity” constituted by between 10 and 50 cities and towns, physically separate
but functionally networked, clustered around one or more larger central cities,
Natural environment
Flows of goods, services, and people
Shared resources (labor, infrastructure, economic structures (industry, finance, services) research centers and
universities, federal funding, natural resources)
Social or cultural identity
Political boundaries (counties, states)
It is evident that the dynamics of all the previously listed “Mega Entities” develop over a wide range of space
and time scales and all the analysis and design activities involve a full spectrum of “areas: science (research),
technology, engineering, social and demographic sciences, governance theory, ecology and agriculture.
Accordingly Multiscale Methodologies, Strategies and Environments are a key fundamental need.
To deal with these challenges, the IMSE- TSDD Framework integrates all the Methods, Tools, Strategies and
Functionalities characterizing the:
“ Integrated Strategic Multiscale Science - Engineering (IMSE) Framework” Chapter 3,
“Strategic Multiscale Computer Aided Research, Technology, Engineering and Manufacturing Development
(SMCARDE-MP) Framework” (paragraph 6.2
“Integrated Strategic Multiscale Science – Engineering – Society Earth and Space Collaboratory Cyber &
Physical Framework” (Chapter 4)
“Integrated Strategic Multiscale Science – Based Education, Information and Communication Framework”
(Chapter 5)
“Strategic Multiscale Science –Based Democratic Societies Framework” (Chapter 8)
in order to conceive, design and implement a wide spectrum of new technological and engineering architectures
and operational/management solutions for any kind of Civil, Infrastructural, Environmental Industrial,
Agricultural and Socio-Economic System. Integrated Multiscale Science–Engineering-Society Models and
Frameworks fill the gap between scientific models and models applied in the Planning and Decision Making
activities. This kind of Frameworks allow to transfer in a continuous and coordinate way knowledge across the
whole spectrum of the Technology Innovation, Design and Development and Implementation Process.
At the same time, we would like to highlight the strong relationships between the IMSE-TSDD
Framework and the Strategic Multiscale Science – Based Democratic Society Structures and
Government Strategies Framework (Chapter 8).
2 ) Integrated Strategic Multiscale Science - Based Analyses and Design Module [based upon
the IMSE and the Integrated Strategic Multiscale Science - Engineering - Society Earth and
Space Collaboratory Cyber & Physical Framework Frameworks]
This Module applies methods, concepts and environments described in the Chapter 3 and Chapter 4.
Modules use the whole spectrum of computational methods (Continuous, Discrete and Agent Based)
Multiscale Multidisciplinary Modeling and Simulation Frameworks allow to build a Hierarchy of Variable
Fidelity and Resolution Models which leads to simplified but rigorous (science-based) models that can
be effectively applied for Planning and Decision Making activities. The following figure (Sandia
National Labs) illustrates the overall schemes for the new generation of Integrated Cooperative
Environments connecting in a structural way Science – Engineering – Politics – Administrative
Entities and Society
3) Strategic Multiscale Science - Engineering Data, Information and Knowledge Analysis and
Management Module (described in the IMSE Framework, Chapter 3).
This Module uses Multiscale Maps and Knowledge Domains to be Integrated with Data Analytics and
AI Techniques.
This “Virtual Framework” can be Integrated with the “Integrated Strategic Multiscale Science-Based
Education, Information and Communication” Framework to be applied to:
– involve citizens, public and socio-economic bodies and industries in the “Smart (Civil,
Infrastructural, Agricultural and Ecological) Systems” Life, Innovation and Development
– Train professionals and technical people
– devise and set up cooperations among Cities, Public (Local/regional, National and Transnational)
(Regional, National and Transnational) Entities
.
Fig. 52 Multiscale Systems Engineering Development Georgia Institute of Technology
This new kind of Frameworks connected with (Multiscale) Monitoring and Control Networks and
Systems can promote the Design of: A New Generation of Multiscale Integrated Data – Models
Urban/Regional Operating Systems
9) Strategic Multiscale Science – Engineering – Society Virtual Testing Module (see Paragraph
6.2.7).
Complexity of the Civil and Infrastructural Systems is continuously growing and operational conditions
are becoming extremely demanding. Classical Testing techniques are no longer up to the new
challenges. Accordingly, even this field should adopt new Integrated Multiscale Science –Engineering
Strategies.
10) Virtual Strategic Multiscale Life Cycle Engineering Module (Paragraph 6.2.8).
The Strategic Multiscale Paradigm allows to see Life Cycle as an example of a Multiscale (Space and
Time) Process. where it is possible to apply the “Integrated Strategic Multiscale Science – Engineering
– Society (IMSE) Framework”.
NOTE: This Module is to be coupled with the Modules described in the Items 2 and 6.
It seems that, in many cases, the Smart City/region Programs socio-economic sustainability is
taken for granted and that the intensive and extensive use of ICT can automatically allow to
achieve this goal. It is to be taken into account that advanced ICT solutions are today widely
available practically all around the world. Smart Cities and Smart Regions are designed and
implemented worldwide. ICT and Engineering companies are ready and willing to sell
technologies and solutions worldwide. Accordingly, the realization of a Smart City and/or a Smart
Region does not automatically guarantee a significant competitive advantage over other Cities
and Regions. The competitive scenario is becoming more and more fierce. A continuous
innovation and development process is, ever more, a key strategic element.
13) Integrated Strategic Multiscale Analysis Schemes and Success Evaluation Criteria
Module
This Module can be built applying the IMSE and the Integrated Strategic Multiscale Science –
Engineering – Society Earth and Space Cyber & Physical Frameworks integrated by existing Modeling
Systems. Usually, Smart City/Region Programs are labelled as successful. However, specific
Analysis Schemes and Success Evaluation Criteria are formulated in a general or even generic way.
Even critics are generic: normally critics target the excess of “Technocratic Strategy” and/or
Economic/Financial viability. Taken into account the increasing level of importance of Smart
City/Region Initiatives on Society Development, we can say that the development of a well-defined set
of “Evaluation Criteria” and the performance of in depth rational and comprehensive analyses of the
real scenarios over short, medium and long term time periods, which take into account the whole
range of predefined socio-economic, environmental, industrial,…. objectives, should represent a
fundamental Goal. Also in this case Multisectoral Multiscale Modeling and Simulation Methods, Tools
and Frameworks which integrate Data Analytics and AI tools to process a wide spectrum of Data get
by a wide range of “Sources” could play a fundamental role.
15) Integrated Strategic Multiscale Science – Engineering – Society Decision Support Systems
(IMDSS)
These Frameworks incorporate the Frameworks described in the previous Items .
IMDSS would be a Strategic tool and resource to outline and analyze future Complex Interdependent
Industrial, Environmental and Socio Economic Scenarios over short, medium and long term time
periods. In many cities long term success is depending upon a variety of overlapping short term issues
and achievements which requires a delicate balance. City/Region decision makers need to have a
dynamic, constantly refreshed strategic vision for what the city will look like in the long term, and make
sure that the various. short term projects and initiatives have a direct line of sight to the long term
strategic vision. Cities and Regions need to demonstrate the “Projects/Programs Global Multisectoral
Value” over time City planners and managers need new Methods and Environments to assess the
socio-economic impact of new technologies and integrated solutions over time. The development of
these Tools should be regarded as a key Objective. Public and also Private Organizations analyzing
with these Tools dynamics and performance of Civil, Infrastructural, Ecological and also Economic and
Social Systems over the full spectrum of spatial and temporal scales can identify problem areas and
track the effectiveness of solutions in achieving the Smart Cities and Smart Regions short, medium
and long-term goals. This is a fundamental component of a real “Smart Governance”. Multiscale
Methods and Frameworks have a “Strategic Value” because they incorporate the following functions
and capabilities:
Horizontal (Integration of Disciplinary Areas) as well as Vertical (from Nano to Macro, From
Science to Engineering and Society) integration is key to creating value and interoperability.
Combined, these features create a “realistic” static and dynamic system of systems.
A full understanding of Sub-Systems and Systems Interoperability dynamics is the key to manage
in an effective and efficient way Complex Realities as Smart Cities and Smart Regions in a wide range
of nominal and off-nominal operational conditions
Future interoperability can only be guaranteed through the existence of international standards
ensuring that components from different suppliers and technologies can interact seamlessly.
A risk of not having the appropriate type and level of integration of city infrastructures and services
would be the simultaneous loss of electrical power, water supply, gas supply and telecommunication
networks. When the different sub-systems do not have integrated backup power or control and
operational systems, but are wholly dependent on a common power grid or communication network,
they can become single points of failure.
Risks of limited connectivity and collaboration
Lack of integrated infrastructures and city/region entities can create significant inefficiencies, risks, and
will affect a city’s economy. Developing integrated infrastructures with the support of integrated
technologies and integrated Modeling and Simulation Frameworks can lead to a better service for
citizens, a more efficient, dynamic and flexible economic systems and enhance the city’s resilience to
safety and security risks.
Cities/Regions Safety, Security and Resilience are becoming central issues to design future
Cities/Regions. Extreme weather events has revealed a number of vulnerabilities of present cities. An
accident in one infrastructure, such as the rupture of water pipes can affect other networks.
Future infrastructure has to be designed to be resilient to such events. This resilience challenge
requires:
a) better adaptive and flexible infrastructures integration scheme,
b) a continuous access to (multiscale) Multisectoral networks of sensors data.
c) Data Integration with Multiscale Multisectoral Modeling & Simulation Frameworks, Data Analytics
and AI Environments. Presently water, electricity, transportation, energy, telecommunications…….
infrastructure are managed separately by different operators. These operators do not communicate
inside a coherent data, information and knowledge context.
The Standards Definition Issue
To ensure that smart integrated complex systems are put in place in practice, internationally agreed
standards that include technical specifications and classifications in order to support interoperability
(i.e. devices and systems working together) are sine qua non. To implement Smart Cities in the urban
landscape, standardizations and certifications are often regarded as essential part to steer this
development. Activities in standardization from respective agencies (e.g. CEN/CENELEC, ISO/IEC
and DIN) which should foster interoperability between different Smart City and Smart Region systems
and which are in a strategic important position in the perspective of economic effects through their
strong influence on national standards will be more important in the future. A number of other
organizations are drafting specifications for smart cities. One of the most ambitious examples is the
City Protocol programme . This initiative, City Protocol Society, aims to provide guidance on the
procedures (required standards) and legal frameworks necessary to achieve such partnerships. The
City Protocol provides “The Anatomy of City Habitat” which aims to present in a common language the
key features affecting city life.
These are represented by three systems (structure, society and data) and eight sub-systems or
thematic areas (environment, infra-structures, built domain, public space, functions, people,
information flows and performance). One of the key aims of the City Protocol is to provide the first
certification system for smart cities, developed with the guidance of over 30 organizations. The
objective being to provide a framework for designing sustainable systems of systems integrating the
numerous elements that creates the urban space. Resilience (for Cyber, Terrorists and Natural
Extreme events) is an increasingly critical issue to be taken into account. Infrastructural Systems
Adaptability and on and off line Reconfiguration capabilities are a very important target to be dealt with
by specific R&D and Engineering Programs. It would be very important to design and test Modeling
and Simulation Methods and Frameworks to analyze the behavior of Systems under off-nominal
conditions.
16) Integrated Strategic Multiscale Science - Engineering - Society Earth and Space
Collaboratory Cyber & Physical Framework (Chapter 4).
The New CIC Infrastructural Framework is based upon the new central concept of “Multiscale
Multidisciplinary Modeling and Simulation as Knowledge Integrators and Multipliers” and “Unifying
Paradigm” for the full spectrum of Scientific and Engineering (analytical, Experimental,
Characterization, Testing, Sensing) Methodologies and “Knowledge Domains”. A “multi – way”
partnership among Theoretical, Computational Centers and Experimental, Characterization, Testing
and Sensing Centers, Systems and Facilities is a distinguishing feature of this new vision. This
“Integrated Environment” is a fundamental resource for all the “IMSE-TSDD Framework”
Environments. Modules and Tools.
16 a) Multiscale Science – Engineering Society Knowledge Integrators and Multiplier Centers.
All the previously quoted Frameworks, Environments and Modules Frameworks run on “Virtual
Strategic Multiscale Science – Engineering – Society Knowledge Integrators and Multiplier Centers”
(see Paragraph 4.4) and on the “Virtual Multiscale Science-Based Space Station (or Center)” (see
Paragraph 4.6). These Centers aims at becoming a reference partner for Industry and Society to
develop and test new technologies and integrated engineering/manufacturing solutions; and a
reference Partner for Public Bodies to develop rigorous (science – based) solutions, strategies,
planning and evaluation criteria. These Intelligent Nodes implement the whole theoretical and
methodological apparatus of the “Strategic Multiscale Science – Based Society Framework”. The
Centers integrate inside a coherent conceptual and application context the whole spectrum of
resources: Computing and Data Centers, Theoretical, R&D and Engineering, Experimental and
Testing Teams and Facilities, which constitute the “Knowledge” needed to Innovate Technology and
Design/Manufacturing Solutions, Operational Modes in all the Economic, Environmental, Societal,
Communication, Information, Industrial Development Areas.
Application Areas (examples)
Analysis, Modeling and Simulation of the behaviour of Civil, Infrastructural and Environmental
Systems and for nominal and off nominal operational conditions
Analysis, Modeling and Simulation of the behaviour of “Complex Systems” and “Systems of
Systems” (Interactions between different Civil, Industrial, Energy, Food, Health….Systems)
Development of new Methodologies and Integrated Frameworks to design “Inherently Resilient
and Green Systems”
Development of a “Science – Based” Sustainability Metrics and related “Evaluation Environments”
for Technology Solutions and Systems (whole Life – Cycle)
Integrated Analysis, Modeling and Simulation of Health – Environmental – Climatological – Food -
Economic issues
Development of new Education and Information Tools, Environments and Strategies
17 ) A New Cyber System to address Globalization Issues: Virtual Strategic Multiscale Space
Station
The “Multiscale Dimension” of Integrated Smart l Systems makes it necessary a new "Vision" and a
"Holistic Approach". This scenario requires a special "Observation and Integration” Point: The “Space”.
We can therefore conceive of a "Virtual Centre" (A Virtual Space Station) located in Space: Multiscale
Science-Based Virtual Space Station. The Virtual Space Station is a New Virtual Center for Analyzing,
Planning and Designing Smart Cities and Civil Infrastructural, Environmental and Agricultural
Systems, by integrating a broad range of observations (data) from Space and Earth Networks and
Multiscale Computational Models.
The Space Station (ISS) can be considered as a "symbol" of a New and more Global Strategy (From
Space to Earth) to address Complex Earth Problems.
18 ) “Strategic Multiscale Digital Twin Environments” which allow to implement the previously
quoted Frameworks anc Contexts (see Paragraph 3.3.5)
Integrated Strategic Multiscale Multidisciplinary Modeling and Simulation Framework basic objectives are to:
Analyze the hierarchy of interlinked phenomena and processes which characterize the dynamics of Societal
Systems over a full range of space and time scales (short, medium long term), elucidate the wide spectrum
of relationships and interdependencies characterizing the several disciplinary areas over a set of space and
time scales
Integrate Multiscale Multiresolution Multidisciplinary Data from a full spectrum of Space, Aerial, Sea (and
Under Sea), Surface and Sub Surface Data Collection Systems to build Multiscale Multiresolution
Multidisciplinary Maps and Knowledge Domains
Represent a Tool and Platform to collect Data from a whole spectrum of Space Aerial, Ground and
Underground Sensing Systems and, thanks to the Multiscale Science-Engineering Knowledge Integrator and
Multiplier Computing, Information and Communication (CIC) Infrastructural Framework, integrate this data
with:
Experimental and Testing Facilities and Sensing Networks
Data Analytics and AI Tools
Multiscale Multiresolution Multidisciplinary Models
In order to:
Validate Models and Improve the existing ones,
Develop a set continuously updated Models which take into account the field dynamics during the
implementation and operational phases for a wide range of nominal and off nominal conditions and
situations. This continuous feedback from the field is a fundamental element to build upon a New Kind
of “Adaptive Technology, Engineering and Manufacturing Strategy”
Implement Multiscale Monitoring and Control and Predictive Maintenance Strategies
Civil, Infrastructural, Industrial, Agricultural and Ecological Systems can be regarded as Networks of a wide
range of Interlinked Systems (System of Systems), Sub–Systems, Components, Devices, Structures and
Materials operating over a full spectrum of space and time scales. Interdependencies among these “Elements”
characterize and rule the dynamics of Societal Systems for nominal and off nominal operating conditions.
Interdependencies determine a new spectrum of operational modes (referred to as “emergent behaviour) which is
inherently multiresolution and multiscale. Analysis and Design of Civil, Industrial, Agricultural, Infrastructural
and Socio-Economic Systems Dynamics cannot be carried out by analyzing and designing in isolation single
elements constituting this kind of Systems. For these reasons Multiscale Multiresolution Systems Engineering
has become a key issue for Urban, Infrastructural and Ecological Engineering. That is even more true when off –
nominal and accident conditions occur The component systems include Infrastructural systems (such as energy,
water and transportation), human centered systems (such as education, healthcare and social programs), and
administrative planning and management systems. The central component of the IBM Smart Cities concept is an
Intelligent Operations Center (IOC) to coordinate and share data in a single view, creating the big picture for the
decision makers and responders who support the smart city. The systems, sub-systems, facilities, components
and devices that comprise these infrastructures are sophisticated, complex, and highly interdependent. They are
comprised of physical, human, and cyber assets, and have evolved over time to be economical and efficient
systems. The increasing interconnections and complexity of these systems, subject to natural hazards, coupled
with the new threat environment, have created the need for a focus on interdependencies and the consequences
they propagate. The objective of this kind of Integrated Frameworks is to support the design, preparedness and
protection of Civil and Infrastructural Systems by providing analyses of the technical, economic, and security
implications of the loss or disruption of these Critical Infrastructures, and outline infrastructure protection,
mitigation, response, and recovery options.
To achieve this goal, it is necessary to understand the consequences of Architectural element
relationships and interdependencies, and the dynamics of their interconnections other than
infrastructure performance under extreme (off nominal) and accidental conditions,
The “Strategic Multiscale” System Engineering Issue deserves a special attention also in the light of the future
Development and Implementation of a new generation of inherently Multiscale Systems. Integration of different
technologies and different sub-systems, components and devices is, today, a fundamental challenge in the
Development and Implementation and design of high-tech systems. In the future, the widening use of a full
hierarchy of nano, micro, meso technologies, components and devices will make this issue even more critical.
Multiscale Engineering will, more and more become “Multiscale” System Engineering. Nanotechnology will be
a fundamental catalyst for this process. Because, today, it begins to be possible to analyze and predict the
dynamics of systems at multiple scales, the next step is to use “Integrated Strategic Multiscale Science-
Engineering Strategies” to design hierarchical systems at multiple scales. That means being able to design
systems in such a way that multiple “structures” at different scales cooperate to produce an increasingly wider
spectrum of properties and functions and higher performance levels.. Designing Systems at multiple scales
(Multiscale System Design) means increasing design freedom, i.e., achieving a greater flexibility in configuring
systems to achieve performance and a spectrum of properties and functionalities that were not possible before.
In the “System Engineering” field, the “Analysis Challenge” is linked to these issues :
Analysis of the Interactions between the “System” and the Operational Environment for the whole
“Operational Envelope” and for extreme and accident conditions in order to define “Systems Requirements”
Analysis of the “Requirements – Performance – Structure” relationships and interdependencies over different
scales (Multiscale Requirements Traceability)
Analyzing Multiscale Dynamics inside each system, sub-system, component and device
Analyzing Multiscale Interactions among different elements at the same scale
Analyzing Multiscale Interactions among the whole range of “System Architectural Elements” working
inside a scale and at different scales
This kind of analyses is functional to define a “corpus” of criteria (metrics) and testing methodologies and
techniques to evaluate the suitability and effectiveness of the of Civil and Infrastructural Systems Design which
take into account the previously defined Analyses. The IMSE and the “Integrated Strategic Multiscale Science –
Engineering – Society Earth and Space Cyber and Physical Framework” can represent a good basis to carry out
the previously indicated analyses. A “Strategic” . Multiscale system design approach opens the way to new
strategies for complex systems control. A combination of new multiscale sensors, meso, micro and nano
systems, and distributed computing systems, can lead to innovative multiscale control schemes. New multiscale
sensors will be able to deliver not only "averaged" data and information, as in the past, about space and time
variations of key physical and technological variables (pressure, temperature, chemical composition,....) but the
detailed map of local values and rates at different levels of resolution and time and space scales. This kind of
information can be used to develop and validate off-line physical models no longer based on an empirical and
semi-empirical (averaged) knowledge but on a first principles understanding of the physical reality. Highly
detailed real-time models to control technological systems will grow out of this new level of understanding and
will run on an array of distributed computing systems.
From a general point of view, the overall performance and operating behavior of systems will be more and more
determined by how multiscale and multi-physics phenomena interact in multi-component and multimedia
environments. The general trend towards miniaturization (micro and nano technologies) makes it necessary for
CAD/CAE/CAM systems to take into account, inside a fully integrated context, an ever wider range of
geometric and physical scales. That is made inside the MCARDE-MP Framework
In this context, the Development and Implementation of “unified variable fidelity multiscale
multiresolution Science - Engineering - hierarchies of computational(continuum, discrete and agent
based) models and Experimental, Characterization, Testing and Sensing techniques/models” can be
considered as a key target.
Reduced Order Models play a very important role in this context for real time control and to support decision
making when critical operational conditions occur. The following figure illustrates the cluster of Models and
their Interactions which are needed to define the dynamics of a “Urban and Infrastructural Societal System”:
Society as a “System of Interacting Systems”. Each box can involve a hierarchy of multiscale multiresolution
models
Integrated Multiscale Multiresolution Science-Engineering Frameworks provide multi-disciplinary consequence
analyses of infrastructure disruptions in support of risk informed decision making. These analyses are often
driven by rapidly unfolding events (e.g., hurricanes, malevolent threats) and are needed quickly. This
requirement can be met by the Development and Implementation of a spectrum of fast reduced – order models
These modeling and analysis tools are essential to providing a broad set of infrastructure disruption analyses
with rapid turn-around times.
Civil, Industrial, Infrastructural, Agricultural Systems can be regarded as Networks of a wide range of
Interlinked Systems (System of Systems), Sub – Systems, Components, Devices, Structures and Materials
working over a full spectrum of space and time scales. Interdependencies among these “Elements” characterize
and rule the dynamics of Complex Civil and Infrastructural Systems for nominal and off – nominal operating
Key Strategic Relevance of Multiscale Models for the “Life” of the Society and related Targets
Strategic Multiscale Multidisciplinary Multisectoral System models integrated with Data Analytics
and AI Systems provide a means for effective communication across all the disciplines, people
and organizations concerned in the Societal Life to address inside a coherent framework a wide
set of (often) conflicting objectives, needs, cultures and views..
Multiscale is a general term. Multiscale means, usually “Multiscale Multiresolution”. Multiscale embodies as
special case classical “Single Scale” methods. The selection of the scales (and inside a scale of the resolution
levels) depends on the specific task to be addressed and the characteristics of the “System” taken into account
(not in all the cases we have to go down to the Schrodinger equation). When we remain inside a “Single Scale”,
as already highlighted, we use the term “Multiresolution”. This situation occurs, for instance, when we deal with
“Systems of Systems” or when we design/analyze the dynamics of “Complex Systems” made up by a set of sub-
systems and components. Just the capabilities of the Multiscale methodology to embody a wide spectrum of
different methods and approaches allow us to regard it as a “Unifying Paradigm”. Analysis Strategies take
advantage of the full spectrum of Multiscale Methods (hierarchical, concurrent, adaptive,..). The full spectrum of
Multiscale schemes can be applied in an integrated way to achieve specific objectives. The “Computational
Materials Design Facility (CMDF), developed at Caltech and MIT, introduced the term “Multi Paradigm” for
this scheme. Top – Down Analyses are integrated, as needed, with Bottom – Up analyses.
Several Multiscale Analysis Strategies can be applied:
Multiscale Scientific Analyses finalized to “Understand” Physical and Bio - Chemical Phenomena and
Processes and their Relationships
a spectrum of multiscale computational, Experimental, Characterization, Testing and Sensing methods
linked using a full range of coupling schemes (multi paradigm approach) are applied to gain a unified
understanding of scientific and engineering phenomena/processes and elucidate relationships and
interdependencies between phenomena, processes and system architectural/structural elements inside a scale
and across different scales. Multiscale Maps give a coherent view of the network of relationships and
interdependencies among “System Dynamics” variables turning data from different sources into Knowledge
Integrated Multiscale Science – Engineering Analyses.
Computational Scientific (Quantum – Atomistic – Micro) Models are directly coupled (On – Line Coupling)
with Meso and Macro (Engineering) Computational Models in order to have an Integrated Multiscale Nano To
Macro Analysis Framework . This kind of scheme has been already developed. A issue to be taken into account
in this case is that this Application Line and Approach is, normally, highly expensive from a computational point
of view.
A very interesting development lines is the design of Adaptive Multiscale Space and Time Environments.
Coarse-scale simulations dynamically spawn tightly coupled and self-consistent fine-scale simulations as needed
following specific scale/resolution transition criteria. Similar concepts apply in the time domain, e.g. using ab
initio techniques to compute activation energies for a rate theory or kinetic Monte Carlo model (“on-the-fly
kMC”)
Off – Line Multiscale Coupling: Reduced – Order Modeling, Sub – Grid Models and Constitutive Equations
Development
Reduced-Order Models, Sub – Grid Models and Constitutive Equations are built, taking advantage of
Knowledge get by Multiscale Scientific Analyses . Constitutive Equations and Sub – Grid Models are inserted
inside classical Engineering codes. Multiscale Scientific Analyses are an important element to build “Hierarchies
of Multilevel Multiscale Computational, Experimental, Characterization, Testing and Sensing
Models/Techniques. In this perspective, Reduced – Order Models and “Hierarchies” can be regarded as a
synthesis and integration of science and engineering. The fundamental objective is to improve reliability, range
of validity, and effectiveness of models applied in the different phases of the Research, Technology
Development and Engineering Process and for Systems and Life – Cycle Engineering issues. It is important to
highlight that Knowledge get from Multiscale Scientific Analyses is captured and organized not only by reduced
order modeling, but also by Multiscale Maps.
This kind of strategy allows to directly insert “Multiscale Knowledge” inside classical
Engineering/Manufacturing/Processing models and codes. Simple, but science –based models, are of
fundamental relevance for Sensitivity Analyses, Analysis of Alternatives, Risk Analyses, Operational Analyses.
It is important to emphasize that the application of Multiscale Strategies demands some not secondary
modifications in the projects organization, structuring and management. In particular, a fundamental element is
the definition of “Integrated Multiscale Multidisciplinary Teams”.
Integration develops over three lines:
Disciplines: physics, chemistry, electronics, biology,
Scales: specialists who operate in various in Scientific and Engineering areas
Methodology: specialists who operate in the three methodological contexts: Theory, Computational,
Experimentation & Testing
A fundamental issue for all the Multiscale Strategies is to adopt an “Adaptive and Multi Step Selection of
Details and Resolution”
MISTRAL will run from 2016 to 2020. The MISTRAL programme has been awarded
£5.3million of funding from the Engineering and Physical Science Research Council.
The aim of the MISTRAL programme is to develop and demonstrate a highly integrated
analytics capability to inform strategic infrastructure decision making across scales, from local
to global.
ITRC vision is for infrastructure decisions to be guided by systems analysis. When this vision
is realised, decision makers will have access to, and visualisation of, information that tells
them how all infrastructure systems are performing. They will have models that help to
pinpoint vulnerabilities and quantify the risks of failure. They will be able to perform ‘what-if’
analysis of proposed investments and explore the effects of future uncertainties, such as
population growth, new technologies and climate change.
The aim of the MISTRAL programme is to develop and demonstrate a highly integrated
analytics capability to inform strategic infrastructure decision making across scales, from local
to global.
The Programme vision is for infrastructure decisions to be guided by systems analysis. Modeling will
be fundamental to identify vulnerabilities and quantify the risks of failure. “‘what-if’ analysis of
investments will be carried out and the effects of future uncertainties, such as population growth, new
technologies and climate change will be explored..
University of Amherst
Integrated Framework combining the Transportation Analysis and Simulation System
(TRANSIMS) model ( Single and Multiscale) and the Multi-Scale Motor Vehicle Emissions
Simulator model (MOVES) from US Environmental Protection (EPA)
“The Multiscale Motor Vehicle and Equipment Emission System (MOVES)
US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)”
three basic analysis scales for MOVES.
Macroscale analyses for which the basic spatial unit would be the county.
Mesoscale analyses using as spatial units roadway links and traffic analysis zones or using vehicle
trips consistent with output from standard travel demand models.
Microscale analyses allow the estimation of emissions for specific corridors and/or intersections
The following Examples are a clear demonstration of the trend towards the
development of Integrated Multiscale Frameworks
The ‘Local nexus’ refers to decentralised food, energy and water systems which interact with each
other within the context of local livelihood and environment. Starting in early 2015, the Local Nexus
Network aims to: 1) establish the state of the art of local productions of food, energy and water; 2)
generate initial insights to guide researchers, businesses, policy makers and communities who are
enthusiastic about exploring the potential of local nexuses, and 3) develop an evidence based agenda
for future research. The ECI Food Group leads on the food component and the Oxford Case Study
"Water Energy Food" Nexus WEFWEB: Mapping the WEF nexus at multiple scales and across
sectors.
This project addresses the challenges of understanding and hence identifying the dynamic, interlinked
interdependencies across the nexus networks which are physical (water, waste, energy and food),
social and political (individual, regulatory and policy), ecological and digital at multiple, nested scales
(local, regional and national) and temporally. The ECI Food Group leads on the food aspect.
Multiscale Coupled Urban Systems will create an integrated modeling framework comprising data
curation, analytics, modeling and simulation components that will equip city designers, planners and
managers to scientifically develop and evaluate solutions to issues that affect cities now and in the
future. The framework will focus first on integrating urban atmosphere and infrastructure heat
exchange and air flow; building energy demand at district or city-scale, generation and use; urban
dynamics and socioeconomic models; population mobility and transportation; and hooks to expand to
include energy systems (biofuels, electricity and natural gas) and water resources.
The SEAMLESS project is an interesting example of the “Multiscale Science – Society Integration” strategy .
Advances in Multiscale Modelling and Science - Engineering Integration methodologies allow us today to
develop integrated modeling and design systems with important new features such as those described in this
Chapter.
SEAMLESS
(System for Environmental and Agricultural Modeling:
Linking European Science and Society)
The SEAMLESS project aimed at advancing the science for integrated assessment of agricultural systems and
translating this into operational research tools and models. A key deliverable of the project is an integrated
framework (SEAMLESS-IF) that integrates relationships and processes across disciplines and scales and
combines quantitative analysis with qualitative knowledge. It builds on the concept of hierarchical systems
theory and attempts to enable flexible coupling of models and tools.
The following image drawn from “The BRIDGE US NATIONAL ACADEMY OF ENGINEERING
Magazine -Volume 41, Number 3 • Fall 2011 - Multiscale Sensing and Modeling Frameworks Integrating
Field to Continental Scales Article” gives an interesting view of the future high-tech scenario fort Agriculture
The New Frontier: Multiscale Sensors - Multiscale Data - Multiscale Modeling Integration
Multiscale Modeling & Simulation and Sensors integration defines a real new “Paradigm” to deal with Big data
and Data Analytics: from ‘Big Data’ to ‘Big Information’ to “Integrated Knowledge”. Two fundamental
elements which led to this transition have been:
a) The availability of a new generation of cheaper, more sensitive and sophisticated sensors and cyber networks
able to collect and integrate data over an extended range of spatial and temporal scales and at higher level of
detail.
b) Advances in data science and data fusion that enable researchers to make best use of the vast amounts of
additional, heterogeneous measurement data.
In turn, it is important to highlight that Models also benefit from having new data to improve in a significant
way calibration, validation, and assimilation increasing, in such way, the reliability and capability of ever more
complex single and multiscale multidisciplinary models
Data – Models Two way Relationships: Models not only use sensor data, but can also help to improve the
design the architecture of sensor networks and their operational modalities. Data-Modeling Integration is a key
resource to get an in-depth “Knowledge” of Complex Scientific, Engineering. Societal, Environmental and
Economic Systems and Processes. This Knowledge is a key resource to build a new Generation of Decision
Support Systems and Integrated Multiscale Science-Engineering-Society Frameworks which enable scientists
designers, managers and politicians to change in a structural way Design and Management Strategies and
related Technological Environments to meet with ever more demanding societal needs and objectives.
The figure is drawn from the article: Integrating modelling and smart sensors for Environmental and Human
Health - Environmental Modelling & Software 74 (2015) 238e246.
The outcome of this integration process is to make it possible to define a “New Paradigm” for Analysis,
Design and Management of Complex Civil, Infrastructural, Ecological , Economic and Social Systems.
This “New Paradigm” is the Central Element of Integrated Multiscale Science – Engineering – Society
Frameworks
Multiscale Sensing
Multiscale Sensing is becoming a key pervasive technology in a wide range of Civil, Infrastructural,
Safety and Security, Ecological, Societal, Industrial (Hierarchical [Nano – Micro – Meso – Macro]
Manufacturing) and Health Areas. Multiscale Sensing has become a strategic technological partner for
Multiscale Modeling and Simulation. Hereinafter some examples:
Towards a unifying science for smarter sensor based systems. We will deliver new principles and techniques for
the development and deployment of verifiable, reliable, autonomous sensor systems that operate in uncertain,
multiple and multiscale environments.
About
Science of Sensor Systems Software (S4) is an EPSRC programme grant
(http://gow.epsrc.ac.uk/NGBOViewGrant.aspx?GrantRef=EP/N007565/1) for Glasgow University with
Universities of St Andrews, Liverpool and Imperial College running from January 2016 until December 2020.
Partners
S4 will be driven and validated by end user and experimental applications involving ten organisations, including
ABB (http://www.abb.com), British Geological Survey (http://www.bgs.ac.uk), CENSIS (http://censis.org.uk),
Freescale (http://www.nxp.com), RollsRoyce (http://www.rollsroyce.com), Thales
(https://www.thalesgroup.com/en), and Transport Scotland (http://www.transportscotland.gov.uk). Note: It is
important to highlight the important and wide Industrial involvement
Research vision
Sensor systems are embedded everywhere: from transportation and lighting, to smart tags and flooded fields,
providing information and facilitating real time decision making and actuation. Smart cities, internet of things,
big data and autonomous vehicles all depend on robust sensor systems that can be trusted to deliver useful,
timely and more reliable information. Extracting information is far from straightforward: sensors are noisy, they
de-calibrate or may be misplaced, moved, compromised, and generally degraded over time, both individually
and as a collective network. Uncertainty pervades the physical and digital environments in which the systems
operate. There are increasing requirements to add more autonomy and intelligence, yet we understand very little
about programming in the face of such pervasive uncertainty that cannot be engineered away. How can we be
assured that a sensor system does what we intend, in a range of dynamic environments? How can we make such
a system “smarter”? How can we connect the stochastic nature of environments, the continuous nature of
physical systems, and discrete nature of software? Currently we cannot answer these questions because we are
missing a science of sensor system software. The S4 programme will develop a unifying science, across the
breadth of mathematics, computer science and engineering, that will let developers engineer for the uncertainty
and ensure that their systems and the information they provide is resilient, responsive, reliable, statistically sound
and robust. The vision is smarter sensor based systems in which scientists and policy makers can ask deeper
questions and be confident in obtaining reliable answers, so the programme will deliver new principles and
techniques for the development and deployment of verifiable, reliable, autonomous sensor systems that operate
in uncertain, multiple and multiscale environments.
Center for Multi-Scale Integrated Intelligent Interactive Sensing (MINTS) – University of Texas
at Dallas (UTD)
The MultiScale Integrated Intelligent Interactive Sensing Consortium (MINTS) aims at developing intelligent
Sensing systems for interdisciplinary applications. MINTS affiliates include experts from the UTD departments
of physics, geosciences, electrical engineering, and computer science with a broad range of background
expertise. The combined experience of the center affiliates is more than a century. The vision of MINTS is a
holistic intelligent synergy of integrated targeted observations from multiple platforms on multiple spatial and
temporal scales, together with state of the art compression and visualization systems for the distribution and
comprehensive analysis of complete datasets. By combining instruments on satellites and robotic vehicles (in
air, land, and sea) that can be directed in real time we can capture observations on multiple parameters on
multiple spatial and temporal scales appropriate to a wide range of problems. This provides a high level of
situational awareness. MINTS is able to provide intelligent Sensing solutions for your application, whether it
concerns natural resources, environment and health, safety and security, transportation,…
ABSTRACT
Multi-source sensor data constitutes a major part of Big Data for smart cities, and can be used to generate
valuable insights. However current systems for collecting and storing such data do not also support the user in
performing analytics to create such insight. In this paper we present the Concinnity platform, based on our
existing work in sensor data management and workflow engine design for model composition. This platform
address the five key challenges in this field of 1) collaboration 2) data heterogeneity and disparity 3) multi-
resolution and multi-scale integration 4) uncertainty and trustworthiness management 5) modelling and decision-
making. We explore responses to these challenges though designing the Concinnity platform and conclude with
an electric vehicle example scenario that demonstrates the capabilities and advantages of our platform in
responding to these challenges. The pervasive use of sensing devices, the rising adoption of personal sensors
and the increasing instrumentation of cities through large scale information systems and sensor networks
constitute a major part of the rise of Big Data for smart cities. As a response to the increasing volume of sensor
data from these devices many systems have been proposed for data collection, storage and management.
However the value of sensor data is mainly derived from the insights that can be generated from it by analytics
and model based analysis. However, existing systems for collecting and storing such data do not also support
the user in performing analytics to create such insight. Therefore the challenges for urban data exchange
platforms are now concentrated around using the data effectively and enabling value-adding processes]:
Crowdsourcing and collaboration: Supporting operations for sharing, annotating, reusing and analyzing the
data, and sharing and documenting the analysis results with its provenance.
Heterogeneity and disparity: Providing tools that en able querying and integrating heterogeneous data in
distributed storage while lowering the complexity of dealing with its diversity.
Multi-resolution and multi-scale: Support multiple levels of abstraction for data integration and aggregation
from sensors measuring different (but related) phenomena at irregularly distributed geo-locations at different
rates and time intervals.
Data uncertainty and trustworthiness: Support for assessing and reasoning about the trustworthiness of data,
results and their owners, as sensors may be faulty, uncalibrated or maliciously tampered with.
Modelling and decision-making: Ensure data analysis and modelling are resilient to uncertainty in
measurements and missing values, providing elastic mechanisms for trading computational costs and quality
of results.
NOTE: Technological and modeling allow us to design Integrated Platform concerning not only a City,
but, also, Megacities, Megaregions and also wide Territories. The Virtual Multiscale Science – Based
Space Station (or Center) could become a catalyst of this process
DDDAS is a paradigm, where data are dynamically integrated into an executing simulation to augment
or complement the application model, and, where conversely the executing simulation steers the
measurement (instrumentation and control) processes of the application system. In essence, the
InfoSymbiotics/DDDAS control loop unifies complex computational models of a system with the real
time data-acquisition and control aspects of the system, and engenders transformative advances in
computational modeling of applications and in instrumentation and control systems, and in particular
those that represent dynamic, complex systems.
This synergistic and symbiotic feedback control loop between applications/simulations and
measurements is a novel technical direction that can open new domains in the capabilities of
simulations with high potential payoff, and create applications with new and enhanced capabilities. It
has the potential to transform the way science and engineering are done, and induce a major beneficial
impact in the way many functions in our society are conducted, such as manufacturing, commerce,
transportation, hazard prediction/management, and medicine, to name a few. Traditional application
simulations are conducted with static data inputs. In the new dynamic, data driven application systems
field collected data will be used in an "online" fashion to steer the simulations and vice versa the
simulations could be used to control experiments or other field measurements. Thus the
applications/simulations and the experiments (or field data) become a symbiotic feedback system rather
than the usual static, disjoint and serialized approaches.
Key Elements are:
complex systems multi-scale/multi-modal modeling and algorithmic methods;
ubiquitous sensoring and networks of heterogeneous sensors and actuators;
streaming large data volumes remotely;
multicore-based transformational computational capabilities at the high-end and the real-time data acquisition
and control systems.
The Multiscale Analysis of data is a new frontier for the sector "Data Analysis", also taking into account the
increasing use of the methodologies "Multiscale" in the Analysis and Design of "Smart Cities"
The spread of a huge number of "data sources": satellites, drones, mobile phones, sensor networks, social
networks, the Internet and the Internet of Things that provide information on phenomena that develop on a wide
range of spatial and temporal scales It is making it increasingly necessary to develop new methods of
"breakdown and aggregation" of data using a wide range of criteria including spatial and Temporal size.
Examples of Application Areas:
Production of Wind Energy: four possible scales: individual wind turbine, wind farm, group of wind farms,
wind farm of an entire country. The analysis of the data shows that the production of wind power has an
intermittent character of all scales. L 'objective is to make it as stable as possible the production of energy with
different strategies correlation between different scales. Recently, it was shown that the combination of different
sources of renewable energy such as wind and solar power, would provide a more constant production of
combined energy (Integration Multi-Area Multiscale)
Mobility:
Understand human movement and the correlations with the Pollution and Economic Activity / Production by
small spatial areas, such as neighborhoods, the city, the country, the region and beyond, it is critical for a variety
of topics such as the spread of diseases , optimization of telecommunications networks, urban planning, .......
Water Management: Recent studies have shown the need to consider the space-time dimension of the supply
of water resources in order to correlate the same properly with the weather patterns and hydrology, pollution, the
evolution of population ... .. [see, for instance "Multiscale Effects on Spatial Variability Metrics Global Water
Resources Data Shama Perveen, James L. Allan Water Resource Manage (2010) 24: 1903-1924)]
Economics: The Swiss Platform for Advanced Scientific Computing (PASC) is a structuring project
jointly supported by the Swiss University Conference (SUC) and the Council of Federal Institutes of
Technology (ETH Board). PASC is coordinated by the Università della Svizzera italiana (USI) in collaboration
with CSCS, the Swiss National Supercomputing Centre of the ETH Zurich, and with the other Swiss universities
and EPFL (Scuola Politecnica Federale di Losanna).
Towards the HPC-inference of causality networks from multiscale economic data
PI: Illia Horenko (Università della Svizzera italiana)
CO-PIs: Patrick Gagliardini (Università della Svizzera italiana), William Sawyer (CSCS) - April 1, 2015 -
March 31, 2017
“Analysis of large amounts of economic data and data-driven inference of causality relations between different
components of economic systems is one of the central problems in modern computational finance and
economics. The task of proper mathematical description and adequate causality understanding for the economic
data is hampered by the multiscale nature of the underlying processes, resulting from the presence of different
temporal and spatial, i.e. regional, sectorial and global scales. Important questions thereby are: (i) an
investigation of the mutual causality influences of different economic observables and their spatial (e.g.,
regional) and temporal (e.g., associated with the business cycle) evolution, (ii) identification of the most
important exogenous impact factors that play a role in their dynamics, (iii) proper mathematical and statistical
description of the influences coming from the unresolved/latent scales and factors. …….. Application of this new
framework will provide an alternative network-driven multiscale perspective and new tools for understanding
the interactions in very complex economic systems.”
Analyses are carried out by applying the full spectrum of methodologies, schemes, strategies and environments
described in the “Integrated Multiscale Science - Engineering Framework.” (see Chapter 3). Monitoring
activities take full advantage of the systems and resources of the “Multiscale Science – Engineering Knowledge
Integrator and Multiplier Computing, Information and Communication Cyberinfrastructural Framework
(incorporating, in this case, a wide range of space – aero – ground – aero - subsurface multiscale sensor
networks): the “Virtual Strategic Multiscale Science-Based Space Station (or Center) [Paragraph 3.6] represents a
key strategic element. All these Systems and Resources can be applied to the Environmental field in the
following areas:
Study of the multiscale spectrum of physical and biochemical phenomena/processes and the complex pattern
of relationships and interdependencies between them which rule the dynamics of “Environmental and
Climatological Systems”. This kind of analysis are instrumental to design multiscale monitoring
infrastructures and related data analysis schemes
Study of the multiscale (space and time) spectrum of physical and bio-chemical processes and the complex
pattern of relationships and interdependencies between them and the ones which underlie dynamics of civil,
infrastructural and industrial units and plants for the whole Life – Cycle and for nominal and off – nominal
conditions, accidents included.
Analyses of multiscale two-way interactions between industrial systems and the environment (humans
included) for nominal and off-nominal conditions (Safety, Security, Design of “Inherently Resilient and
Green Systems).
Designing new multiscale environmental monitoring systems able to integrate data (Multiscale Maps) from
a wide range of sensors working over a whole spectrum of space and time scales with data coming from a
whole set of computational models. Key Issues:
identify key variables to be monitored over a spectrum of scales and resolution levels, and at what level
of accuracy and reliability [Multiscale Maps]. We start with first hypotheses to be improved integrating
data from the field with experimental results and using Multiscale Modeling as “Knowledge Integrator
and Multiplier” Concept and Strategies in order to get a more reliable and accurate knowledge about
phenomena and processes recorded and explain not well known phenomena and processes not fully
accounted for by existing theories. Key issues:
devising a strategy to integrate fields data and information with laboratory experimental & testing
systems and theory and computational models
defining a suitable mix of field sensors and experimental (laboratory) techniques and methods at all
the scales and integrate them in order to improve the knowledge about the dynamics of the (natural,
technological, natural-technological) system under observation and analysis
devising a strategy to select the right type of sensors [Multiscale Science – Engineering Information and
Space and Information – Driven strategies] to monitor the previously identified key variables over the
right range of space and time scales at a well-defined degree of accuracy and reliability.
identifying relationships and interdependencies between physical and bio-chemical phenomena and
processes at the different space and time scales and resolution levels integrating monitoring data and
computational modeling [construction of Multiscale Knowledge Maps]
define the field monitoring systems architecture at all the scales and for all the media. This task call for a set
of specific sub-tasks :
identification of specific sensor and actuator technologies to monitor and analyze specific phenomena
and processes (information-driven analysis)
identification of the places where sensors and actuators are to be installed
definition of an overall monitoring and controlling architecture and related operational modes
definition of the characteristics of the models to be used to analyze and fuse field data and implement
control schemes
identification of data/information to be used for R&D and Engineering activities external to the field
environment, but related to it
the previous sub-tasks allow to define requirements to be met by the Computing, Information and
Communication (CIC) Technology Infrastructure (HW and SW)
Integrated Space – Time Environmental/Pollution Analysis. The Multiscale Framework enables a new
“Integrated Space-Time” approach to environmental and pollution issues. “Integrated Space-Time” approach
means that in this new methodological and conceptual context, we can link together inside a unified context
data, information, knowledge and models which characterize the three fundamental phases which
characterize the pollution process :
Generation Phase (generation of pollutants inside a technological system)
Transportation/Diffusion Phase through different media (air, water, land)
Interaction or Biomedical Phase( interaction with biological systems (humans included)
In order to accomplish the previously described analysis and monitoring activities we apply the following set of
Strategic Multiscale Maps:
A) Multiscale Energy Consumption and Environmental Impact (Waste and Emission) Maps: (described in
the Previous Paragraph)
B) Multiscale Monitoring From Space To Earth System Maps (see Paragraph 4.6) which describe the network
(Space, Air, Ground and Underground, Water) of monitoring systems, their interconnections and data flows for
specific sets of physical, chemical and biochemical phenomena and processes to be monitored and the related
“Information Potential” of the Monitoring Systems: that means what kind of phenomena at what space and time
resolutions and scales and at what level of accuracy and reliability can be monitored over a spectrum of
operational conditions.
C) Multiscale Ecological, Civil, Infrastructural, Industrial Systems (any level of the hierarchy)” - (Nominal
and Off-Nominal) Operational Modes - Environmental Impact Maps Theses Maps represent a new
“Generation” of Maps specifically conceived to evaluate the impact (all the typologies: pollutants, heat,
waste,…) on the Environment of Manufacturing/Processing “Systems” for a wide range of operational
conditions (including the extreme and accidental ones) and design solutions
Note : Multiscale and Information-driven Analysis Schemes are well suited to carry out these tasks
Tools, concepts and methods (Hierarchies, Map, Science-Engineering Information Space, Multiscale Science-
Engineering Data Analysis Schemes, Information-Driven strategies,…..) are better suited than existing
methodologies to both take advantage of progress in CIC technologies and effectively address complexity of the
systems to be monitored and analyzed.
The key distinguishing element, in this area, is that new “Strategic Multiscale Science-based Multidisciplinary
and Multisectoral Cooperative Environments” fully integrate two Cyberinfrastructures. which normally do not
follow common strategies and objectives (see Chapter 4):
The “Virtual Strategic Multiscale Science-Based Space Station (or Center) (paragraph 3.6) is a
“Strategic Resource” for Environmental Monitoring at all the scales from the Urban scale to Mega
Regions scale until a whole Continent and the Global World
Effects of Hurricane Katrina on Southern Mississippi Coastal Forest and projected post –
Hurricane responses: A multiscale Evaluations
Research by Dr. John Kupfer - Department of Geography, University of South Carolina -
To better understand how Hurricane Katrina affected forested ecosystems in southern Mississippi and how these
ecosystems are likely to respond in the future, University of South Carolina researchers analyzed data on the
structure and composition of different forest community strata, conducted seed-bank germination trials,
estimated plant stress via productivity, chlorophyll and soil redox measures, and analyzed soils for a range of
edaphic characteristics. Researchers had three goals at the outset of this study: 1) Determine the effects of the
storm surge on coastal-zone soil chemistry 2) Estimate plant stress related to soil changes and storm damage via
measures of plant productivity, chlorophyll, and soil redox potential 3) Clarify the effects of forest structure,
composition, history, setting, and landscape context on wind-caused damage patterns Researchers started out
with an understanding that forest recovery after a natural disturbance is a function of the effects of the
disturbance on the existing community (e.g., survivorship and mortality), responses of surviving individuals to
changing and often stressful environmental conditions based on species-specific physiological adaptations and
life history traits, and germination and establishment of new individuals from the soil seed bank or from seeds
arriving from off-site sources. USC researchers initiated a multi-scale study that combines field-based research,
greenhouse studies, remote sensing and spatial analysis. Although their emphasis in the initial phase of this study
was on the direct impacts of the hurricane on forest ecosystems, the researchers actually conducted two parallel
studies. In coastal forests and salt marshes located around
St. Louis Bay, they performed repeat sampling of soils to examine the effects of the hurricane storm surge on
soil characteristics. Researchers will combine these analyses with measures of forest structure, damage, stress,
and productivity to be taken in 2006 to clarify the mechanical and chemical effects of storm surge on the
affected ecosystems. The second component of the study, conducted in nearby DeSoto National Forest, used pre-
and post-hurricane forest surveys and aerial photography to explore patterns and controls of wind-related forest
damage at scales ranging from individual trees to forest stands to entire forested landscapes.
According to researchers, this study was only a first step in understanding the resilience of coastal forests
affected by Hurricane Katrina, but several patterns have already emerged. Soil samples taken one month after the
hurricane showed substantially higher concentrations of sodium, phosphorous, magnesium, calcium and
potassium, as well as differences in pH, cation-exchange capacity, and nitrogen in storm-surged areas.
Researchers reported that soils in areas with hydric soils (i.e., floodplains) have been responding differently
since the hurricane from non-hydric soils, presumably because of different rates of leaching and other ecological
processes. The study of wind damage is ongoing, but USC researchers have linked patterns of damage severity
to both broad-scale controls, especially proximity to the hurricane’s eye (a surrogate for wind speed), and stand-
level characteristics, including stand structure and history (e.g., logging history), topography (e.g., floodplain vs.
slope or ridge top locations) and composition (e.g., pine vs. hardwood components). Researchers also
reconstructed patterns and directions of severe winds using ground surveys and aerial photographs taken shortly
after the hurricane. These reconstructions will be used to develop and validate models of surface wind flow
patterns and predict susceptibility of forests to future hurricanes. Forest damage from Hurricane Katrina was
caused by high winds, with wind gusts exceeding 100 mph as far as 100 miles inland, and hurricane storm surge,
which exceeded 30 feet along much of the Mississippi coastline and penetrated more than three miles inland in
some places. The effects of the storm surge on coastal ecosystems included mechanical damage from wave
force, effects of salt spray deposited on forest canopies above the high-water mark, and chemical alterations of
the soil that can adversely affect coastal forests in a number of ways. High winds damaged or destroyed billions
of dollars of timber on 5 million acres in Mississippi, Alabama and Louisiana. Inventories indicate that one-third
of the timber damaged was concentrated in eight counties in southern Mississippi. As part of a graduate seminar,
10 USC graduate students accompanied Dr. Kupfer and researchers from the University of Memphis on a data
collection trip to southern Mississippi in February 2006. The USC students helped analyze data gathered on this
trip and prepare manuscripts for publication in refereed journals. This project created collaborations among three
universities with strong research interests in coastal ecology, including the University of Southern Mississippi,
which was damaged by Hurricane Katrina and lost its Gulf Coast campus. It has also fostered collaborations
between the USC Geography Department and forest managers at De Soto National Forest.
Results from this project are being disseminated to both peer-reviewed professional journals as well as more
general readership outlets. Researchers are also collaborating with the research group headed by Drs. Fletcher
and Porter on joint projects related to coastal zone ecosystem recovery and monitoring. Researchers hope that
the study will provide insights on forest susceptibility to hurricanes that might help to guide forest management,
both before and after future events, in hurricane-prone areas.
On a personal note, Dr. Kupfer said that he has worked in other areas affected by natural catastrophes such as
wildfire, but nothing could have prepared him for what he saw along the Mississippi coastline. Nonetheless,
during his time working there, he said he was witness to the resilience of both the people and ecosystems of
southern Mississippi.
To better understand how Hurricane Katrina affected forested ecosystems in southern Mississippi and how
these ecosystems are likely to respond in the future, University of South Carolina researchers analyzed
data on the structure and composition of different forest community strata, conducted seed-bank
germination trials, estimated plant stress via productivity, chlorophyll and soil redox measures, and
analyzed soils for a range of edaphic characteristics. Researchers had three goals at the outset of this
study: 1) Determine the effects of the storm surge on coastal-zone soil chemistry 2) Estimate plant stress
related to soil changes and storm damage via measures of plant productivity, chlorophyll, and soil redox
potential 3) Clarify the effects of forest structure, composition, history, setting, and landscape context on
wind-caused damage patterns Researchers started out with an understanding that forest recovery after a
natural disturbance is a function of the effects of the disturbance on the existing community (e.g.,
survivorship and mortality), responses of surviving individuals to changing and often stressful
environmental conditions based on species-specific physiological adaptations and life history traits, and
germination and establishment of new individuals from the soil seed bank or from seeds arriving from off-
site sources.
USC researchers initiated a multi-scale study that combines field-based research, greenhouse studies,
remote sensing and spatial analysis. Although their emphasis in the initial phase of this study was on the
direct impacts of the hurricane on forest ecosystems, the researchers actually conducted two parallel
studies. In coastal forests and salt marshes located around St. Louis Bay, they performed repeat sampling
of soils to examine the effects of the hurricane storm surge on soil characteristics. Researchers will
combine these analyses with measures of forest structure, damage, stress, and productivity to be taken in
2006 to clarify the mechanical and chemical effects of storm surge on the affected ecosystems. The
second component of the study, conducted in nearby DeSoto National Forest, used pre- and post-hurricane
forest surveys and aerial photography to explore patterns and controls of wind-related forest damage at
scales ranging from individual trees to forest stands to entire forested landscapes.
According to researchers, this study was only a first step in understanding the resilience of coastal forests
affected by Hurricane Katrina, but several patterns have already emerged. Soil samples taken one month
after the hurricane showed substantially higher concentrations of sodium, phosphorous, magnesium,
calcium and potassium, as well as differences in pH, cation-exchange capacity, and nitrogen in storm-
surged areas. Researchers reported that soils in areas with hydric soils (i.e., floodplains) have been
responding differently since the hurricane from non-hydric soils, presumably because of different rates of
leaching and other ecological processes.
This Paragraph gives a General Overview of EMPA Research Areas and related
Activities
Note: herewith reported Text, Information and Figures are drawn from the Web Site
www.empa.ch. Text and figures give only a partial description of EMPA R&D
Organization and activities. For a more complete and structured description please
refer to the Official Websites and Documents
Highlights
EMPA Research Activities are a noteworthy demonstration of the key Value of Technology,
Engineering and Manufacturing Advances for all the Civil, Infrastructural, Environmental
Areas Development and Innovation. An Integrated Multidisciplinary Multisectoral Science –
Engineering approach as applied by EMPA is a Reference Strategy. It is important to highlight
that a tight integration between the Technology, Engineering and Manufacturing Domains and
the ICT/Computing ones represent a key Methodological Approach, Tool and Resource as
emphasized in this White Book. Multiscale Science – Engineering Integration Strategy is
applied to achieve R&D Objectives.
The EMPA Strategy and Approach can represent a Reference Application Field for the
Integrated Multiscale Science – Engineering – Society Cyber & Physical Framework
(Chapter 3)
Nanostructured Materials
Entering the nano-world allows access to the basic elements of our materials. This enables us to
devise new materials and coatings with tailor-made functional properties to solve numerous
technological problems, for instance in the ManTech sector or for micro- and nanoelectronics. As the
leading Swiss R&D institution in the field of nanostructured materials, its interfaces and coatings Empa
will drive the application-oriented exploitation of nanoscale effects in collaborative projects. We can all
upon our broad spectrum of interdisciplinary know how in this scientific field, which lies at the
crossroads of physics, chemistry and biology. For example, we are aiming at innovative solutions for
problems in sustainable energy technologies from thin film photovoltaics to thermoelectric conversion
and even synthetic fuels (see Research Focus Area "Energy") and are working together with the ICT
industry on novel materials and concepts like self-assembled graphene structures built out of
precursor molecules. Moreover, Empa is engaged not only in the development of new nanoscale
materials but also in research concerning possible risks for human health and the environment. In its
Research Focus Area "Health and Performance", Empa will establish new advanced in vitro systems
to assess the safety of nanomaterials before they reach the market in substantial amounts.
The module Advanced Lightweight Structures concentrates on building materials systems, like
carbon fiber pre-stressed concrete elements that greatly reduce the weight of precast bridge and buildings
elements. Here, the key criteria are the development of economically affordable, durable and fire-safe
systems. An additional focus in this module lies in developing materials and systems for reducing the
emission and transmission of sound and vibration. One main goal is the reduction of sound transmission in
lightweight systems, which are experimentally characterized and analyzed in Empa’s new acoustic testing
lab.
Materials
Casting of a carbon fibre prestressed and reinforced test slab with a self-compacting concrete.
Research and development of multifunctional materials for the building industry has a long standing and
successful tradition at Empa and will also be continued in the future. In this context the latest patents by
Empa researchers focus on innovative pre-stressing materials for structural concrete: iron-based shape
memory alloys allow an in situ pre-stressing of concrete for strengthening and upgrading bridge, tunnel and
building elements, while the recent development of highly durable expansive concretes allows the
pretensioning of non-metallic reinforcements for precast concrete elements with reduced processing costs
and a smaller ecological footprint, for example CO emissions. Numerical material modelling allows efficient
design of novel systems and always represents a crucial part of Empa’s research activities.
Reducing the environmental footprint of construction materials is one of the main goals in the module
Materials. To achieve this we employ a variety of innovative approaches such as the drastic reduction of
cement clinker in concrete by employing combinations of mineral admixtures and fillers, while at the same
time optimizing the packing and the rheological properties of the concrete. A further focus will be on
recycled, re-used, marginal and alternative construction materials. Recycling has great ecologic and cost-
saving potential in road pavements, for instance; here one research focus is on achieving a higher
durability for recycled pavements.
Can we guarantee the safety of new materials in future? And how can we test this? study this in
biological systems.
The obtained improved Lifetime Prediction for industrial system durability induces better products with less
emission and environmental impact.
How to design technologies and production systems (including recycling systems) in view of a
more sustainable use of scarce / critical materials?
Goal: Identify options for a (more) sustainable use of scarce metals through (re-)design of
technologies and production systems (including recycling systems) and demonstrate their
feasibility with case studies.
CO -Mitigation
CO is both reactant and product in living organisms and thus substantial part of the materials cycles of
life. Furthermore, due to its physical and chemical properties, it is an important factor influencing the
state of the atmosphere and hydrosphere.
The temperature of the atmosphere is strongly influenced by the concentration of CO in it due to its
infrared radiation absorbing properties; likewise the pH-value of the oceans is directly linked to the CO
content in them. With the large emission of CO caused by the massive use of fossil fuels for energy,
the content in atmosphere and oceans is steadily increasing with unpredictable consequences (IPCC).
Although negative or at least constant CO emission is required in order to limit the extent of global
warming, carbon-based liquid fuels will in the foreseeable future continue to be an important source of
stored energy. We want to contribute to this discrepancy by research and development of new ideas
aiming for a mitigation of anthropogenic CO -emissions. This includes research and development in
renewable energy: production, storage, conversion materials science on CO –capture CO -utilization,
e.g. as a starting product for fuel production (power-to-gas, power-to-liquid) measurement and
assessment of CO emissions from industrial processes investigation of the influence of chemical
processes on atmospheric CO on corrosion
Additive Manufacturing
Additive (or freeform) Manufacturing of metals, ceramics and polymers is nowadays a commonly
established processing technology. The developments in this field during the recent years have been
mainly driven by the process engineers, whereas the materials science in freeform manufacturing is
only at its infancy.
The research activities at Empa are focusing on the materials science aspects in the additive manufacture
of metals, ceramics and polymers at different length scales (nm-cm). At Empa, equipment for the freeform
fabrication of
Metals (selective laser melting, laser metal deposition),
Polymers (stereo lithography, direct ink writing) and
Ceramics (fused deposition modeling, lithography-based ceramic manufacturing)
is already available or will be installed in the near future.
New materials for and by Additive Manufacturing
Freeform manufacturing technologies offer a unique ability to dynamically mix materials during the
deposition process and produce functionally graded structures, new composite microstructures and
perhaps even new material classes. However, energy beam-based processes like selective laser melting
imply a very rapid material consolidation, leading to non-equilibrium microstructures, which are usually
harder, less ductile, and often exhibit high residual stresses. Therefore, a deep understanding of the
correlation between process, microstructure and material properties is required for a successful exploitation
of these advantages.
In addition, the optimization of existing materials for their successful use in freeform fabrication processes
will be important. The following topics will be addressed:
Design and characterization of novel alloys for beam-based freeform fabrication processes (e.g. CCMX
Challenge AM )
Development and characterization of hierarchically structured composites (polymers, metals, ceramics)
and multi-materials by using freeform fabrication processes
Development and characterization of complex 3D structures from metals, ceramics or polymers with
new functionalities – e.g. acoustic meta-materials
Subject areas
Microstructure
In order to characterize the microstructure of asphalt concrete environmental scanning electron microscope
(ESEM), optical microscope, Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) and computer tomography have been used.
Other methods are continuously investigated for their suitability for asphalt concrete materials.
Microstructural features due to different compaction methods, polymer modification and homogeneity of
void structure can be investigated.
Micro-tensile tests
At Empa using a novel test set up the tensile behavior of viscoelastic bituminous films confined between
mineral aggregates or steel as adherents, can be investigated in the brittle and ductile regimes. Uniaxial
specimens can be fabricated employing a prototype set up developed in this allowing construction of
microscale thin films and visualization of failure phenomena. The effect of key parameters, namely,
temperature, binder type, adherent type (stainless steel and mineral aggregate), and water conditioning
can be investigated.
Multi-Scaling
In cooperation with other focus areas in the lab, information obtained from the microstructural, micro-tensile
and other related characterization techniques is used to determine the origin of performance limiting or
enhancing phenomena. Examples of materials of current interest are porous asphalt, recycled asphalt and
multi-functional pavement materials.
Structure
MSE2 was founded with support from the MIT Energy Initiative in 2012 to explore “bottom up”
simulation and experimental verification of the properties of complex multiscale materials.
“MultiScale Material Science for Energy and Environment” is an international joint unit (UMI)
between CNRS (http://www.cnrs.fr) and MIT (http://mit.edu) at the center of a strategic association
covering research, training and education in partnership with industry. The UMI aims at “bottom
up” simulation and experimental verification of properties of complex multiscale materials — from
atomic-scale to microns, and from nanoseconds to years.
Materials with important technological, economic, energy and environmental applications will be
addressed, including cement, ceramics, nuclear fuels, steels and geo-materials. The UMI hosts
French researchers at MIT, each for a number of years, and is seen as a gateway to further
collaboration between CNRS and MIT. The UMI, which is housed at MIT under the auspices of
the MIT Energy Initiative (MITEI) (http://mitei.mit.edu/) , has been designated by the CNRS as the
lead unit of a “Laboratoire d’Excellence
(http://www.enseignementsuprecherche.gouv.fr/cid51355/laboratoires-d-excellence.html)
”consisting of multiple institutions engaged in materials science. The Labex ICOME2
(Interdisciplinary Center on Multiscale Materials for Energy and Environment, Labex n°ANR-11-
LABX-0053) is a network project according to the general ANR description. It aims at establishing
durable links between the CNRS-MIT UMI established in Cambridge (US) and the CINAM
laboratory on AMU Luminy campus in Marseille. In addition, the UMI and its Marseille mirror site
are the center of gravity of the GdR-i international research network, M2UN, as part of AMU e�ort
on the international front. The present Labex project extends from 2012 to 2016). The Labex core
science project also matches that of the SOLEIL synchrotron through the
nanotomography beamline (Equipex NanoimageX / Beam line AnatomiX). Finally, as a tool to
maximize the level of connections/collaborations with other CNRS/university labs, other research
organizations (French and US, CEA, NIST, DOE...) and industries, we propose the establishment
of the positions of Fellow of the UMI. As MIT affiliates, the Fellows of the UMI will enhance the
scientific and industrial relevance and provide the outreach for technology transfer. The CNRS-
MIT UMI laboratory was opened in June 2012 as the concrete expression of both parties in
building reinforced peer-to-peer collaborations. The CNRS-MIT UMI is composed of 6 French
academic/CNRS scientists. It is located on the MIT campus. In addition to the salaries of its own
professors, MIT is providing office and lab space and administrative support to the UMI. A
Memorandum of Understanding between CNRS and MIT stating the creation of the CNRS-MIT
UMI was signed during the France-MIT conference in June 2011. From the will of the President of
CNRS, the UMI has a mirror site at CINaM, the CNRS-Aix-Marseille Université research
laboratory on materials and nano-science; idea thoroughly supported by AMU. Aix-Marseille
University (AMU) is a new institution resulting from the merge of the three old Aix-Marseille
New research shows concrete is a strong choice for the long-term confinement of nuclear
waste. Anne Wilson Yu | Concrete Sustainability Hub
One of the main challenges faced by the nuclear industry is the long-term confinement of nuclear
waste. Concrete is one of the barrier materials commonly used to contain radionuclides, both in
nuclear reactors and nuclear waste-storing facilities. For this reason, it is extremely important that
researchers and industry professionals understand the chemical and structural stability of cement
(the basic binding ingredient in concrete) containing radioactive materials.
A new study (http://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/acs.est.5b02609) by researchers from the MIT
Concrete Sustainability Hub (http://cshub.mit.edu/) and the joint MIT-French National Center for
Scientific Research (CNRS) lab known as Multi-Scale Materials Science for Energy and
Environment (MSE2 (http://umi.mit.edu/) ) is the first to show that cement is effective for nuclear
containment of radioactive materials.
The paper, coauthored by MIT postdoc Lucile Dezerald, visiting scientist Andres Saul, senior
research scientist Roland J.-M. Pellenq (http://cee.mit.edu/pellenq) , and Professor Franz-Josef
Ulm (http://cee.mit.edu/ulm) , presents research that, for the first time, offers a quantum modeling
of cement hydrate at the nano scale. “In short, what the research showed is that cement is a good
choice for storing nuclear waste from the fission reaction in nuclear plants,” Pellenq says.
One of the study’s key findings is that cement could be a good material to store radioactive
strontium-90 and its daughter elements (yttrium and zirconium) from its radioactive beta decay.
This could be highly relevant for improving waste storage conditions in accidental cases, such as
the Fukushima Daiichi disaster in March 2011.
The study may also have an impact on considerations around the decommissioning of nuclear
plants. “We disconnect the plant from the grid, but the nuclear waste is still there,” Pellenq says,
noting that the cores of decommissioned nuclear plants from the 1950s in the United Kingdom
and France are still intact, as are cores at even older decommissioned plants in the United States.
Knowing now that cement can effectively contain nuclear waste materials may buy researchers
enough time to sort out the technology and lead to potential long-term solutions.
This is the first nano-metric study using quantum physical chemistry to understand how cement is
effective for the storage of intermediate half-life fission products. The paper’s other authors are:
Jorge J. Kohanoff of the Atomistic Simulation Centre of Queen’s University Belfast; Alfredo A.
Correa of the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory; and Alfredo Caro of Los Alamos National
Laboratory.
The paper is available (http://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/acs.est.5b02609) from the journal
Environmental Science and Technology.
Excerpts from the “New understanding of concrete’s properties could increase lifetime of
the building material, decrease emissions” Article ( MSE2 Website).
Nancy W. Staffer | MIT Energy Initiative
An MIT-led team has de�ned the nanoscale forces that control how particles pack together
during the formation of cement “paste,” the material that holds together concrete and causes
that ubiquitous construction material to be a major source of greenhouse gas emissions. By
controlling those forces, the researchers will now be able to modify the microstructure of the
hardened cement paste, reducing pores and other sources of weakness to make concrete
stronger, stiffer, more fracture-resistant, and longer-lasting. Results from the researchers’
simulations explain experimental measurements that have confused observers for decades, and
they may guide the way to other improvements, such as adding polymers to fill the pores and
recycling waste concrete into a binder material, reducing the need to make new cement.
Each year, the world produces 2.3 cubic yards of concrete for every person on earth, in the
process generating more than 10 percent of all industrial carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. New
construction and repairs to existing infrastructure currently require vast amounts of concrete, and
consumption is expected to escalate dramatically in the future. “To shelter all the people moving
into cities in the next 30 years, we’ll have to build the equivalent of several hundred New York
cities,” says Roland Pellenq (http://energy.mit.edu/profile/rolandpellenq/), senior research scientist
in the MIT Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering (CEE) and research director at
France’s National Center for Scientific Research (CNRS). “There’s no material up to that task but
concrete.” Recognizing the critical need for concrete, Pellenq and his colleague Franz-Josef Ulm
(http://energy.mit.edu/profile/franz-josef-ulm/), professor of CEE and director of the MIT Concrete
Sustainability Hub (http://cshub.mit.edu/) (CSHub), have been working to reduce its environmental
footprint. Their goal: to �nd ways to do more with less. “If we can make concrete stronger, we’ll
need to use less of it in our structures,” says Ulm. “And if we can make it more durable, it’ll last
longer before it needs to be replaced.” Surprisingly, while concrete has been a critical building
material for 2,000 years, improvements have largely come from trial and error rather than
rigorous research. As a result, the factors controlling how it forms and performs have remained
poorly understood. “People always deemed what they saw under a microscope as being
coincidence or evidence of the special nature of concrete,” says Ulm, who with Pellenq co-directs
the joint MIT-CNRS laboratory called MultiScale Material Science for Energy and Environment
(http://umi.mit.edu/), hosted at MIT by the MIT Energy Initiative (MITEI). “They didn’t go to the
very small scale to see what holds it together — and without that knowledge, you can’t modify it.”
Cement: the key to better concrete
The problems with concrete — both environmental and structural — are linked to the substance
that serves as its glue, namely, cement. Concrete is made by mixing together gravel, sand,
water, and cement. The last two ingredients combine to make cement hydrate, the binder in the
hardened concrete. But making the dry cement powder requires cooking limestone (typically with
clay) at temperatures of 1,500 degrees Celsius for long enough to drive of the carbon in it.
Between the high temperatures and the limestone decarbonization, the process of making cement
powder for concrete is by itself responsible for almost 6 percent of all CO2 emissions from
industry worldwide. Structural problems can also be traced to the cement: When finished
concrete cracks and crumbles, the failure inevitably begins within the cement hydrate that’s
supposed to hold it together — and replacing that crumbling concrete will require making new
cement and putting more CO2 into the atmosphere.
To improve concrete, then, the researchers had to address the cement hydrate — and they had to
start with the basics: defining its fundamental structure through atomic-level analysis. In 2009,
Pellenq, Ulm, and an international group of researchers associated with CSHub published the
first description of cement hydrate’s three-dimensional molecular structure. Subsequently, they
determined a new formula that yields cement hydrate particles in which the atoms occur in a
specific configuration — a “sweet spot” — that increases particle strength by 50 percent.
However, that nanoscale understanding doesn’t translate directly into macroscale characteristics.
The strength and other key properties of cement hydrate actually depend on its structure at the
“mesoscale” — specifically, on how nanoparticles have packed together over hundred-nanometer
distances as the binder material forms.
When dry cement powder dissolves in water, room-temperature chemical reactions occur, and
nanoparticles of cement hydrate precipitate out. If the particles don’t pack tightly, the hardened
cement will contain voids that are tens of nanometers in diameter — big enough to allow
aggressive materials such as road salt to seep in. In addition, the individual cement hydrate
particles continue to move around over time — at a tiny scale — and that movement can cause
aging, cracking, and other types of degradation and failure. To understand the packing process,
the researchers needed to define the precise physics that drives the formation of the cement
hydrate microstructure — and that meant they had to understand the physical forces at work
among the particles. Every particle in the system exerts forces on every other particle, and
depending on how close together they are, the forces either pull them together or push them
apart. The particles seek an organization that minimizes energy over length scales of many
particles. But reaching that equilibrium state takes a long time. When the Romans made concrete
2,000 years ago, they used a binder that took many months to harden, so the particles in it had
time to redistribute so as to relax the forces between them. But construction time is money, so
today’s binder has been optimized to harden in a few hours. As a result, the concrete is solid long
before the cement hydrate particles have relaxed, and when they do, the concrete sometimes
shrinks and cracks. So while the Roman Colosseum and Pantheon are still standing, concrete
that’s made today can fail in just a few years.
…………………
This research was supported by Schlumberger; France’s National Center for Scientific Research
(through its Laboratory of Excellence Interdisciplinary Center on MultiScale Materials for Energy
and Environment); and the Concrete Sustainability Hub at MIT. Schlumberger is a Sustaining
Member (http://energy.mit.edu/membership) of the MIT Energy Initiative. The research team also
included other investigators at MIT; the University of California at Los Angeles; Newcastle
University in the United Kingdom; and Sorbonne University, Aix-Marseille University, and the
National Center for Scientific Research in France.
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
The author of this document likes to thank Dr. Salvatore Marotta (Lawyer at the Court of Turin and Professor of
Economics) for highlighting the potential value of Multiscale Science – Based concepts, methods and strategies,
described in the previous Chapters for Governmental and Political Issues and giving a contribution to identify
key application fields and critical unsolved problems lending themselves to science – based solutions.
Today, a key challenge is to integrate the most significant advances in Science, Mathematical Techniques and
Modeling, Systems Design Methodologies, Computing, Information and Communication Technologies inside a
"Coherent and Multidisciplinary Multiscale Knowledge, Analysis and Design Framework" specifically designed
to allow Politics to develop and apply "New Theories and Strategies" to more effectively and comprehensively
deal with democratic governmental challenges in a highly complex, multifaceted and continuously evolving
Socio-Economic reality. The Ultimate Objective is to integrate inside a Unitary Vision "Science - Technology -
Engineering - Politics - Society".
Paragraph 8.2 outlines a possible New Scenario and Frontier based upon the Strategic Multiscale
Framework
Paragraph 8.2.1 highlights the most Critical Challenges of the Present Scenario
Paragraph 8.2.2 describes the role that the Strategic Multiscale Framework could have to give Politicians
and Bureaucrats a new generation of analytical and design tools to more effectively and comprehensively
deal with key Society problems highlighted in the Paragraph 7.1. An Integrated Analysis, Knowledge and
Design Framework based upon the Strategic Multiscale is also described
Paragraph 8.3 examines the impact that a systematic and organic application of the Strategic
Multiscale can have on three fundamental themes for the Democratic Government and the Society
Development:
A. New Knowledge and Science - Based Democratic Governance Culture and System (Paragraph
8.3.1)
B. The National State, the Globalization Processes and he Supranational Entities. (Paragraph 8.3.2)
C. A New Frontier and Resource for Globalization: Space (Paragraph 8.3.3)
The new Framework has also the strategic goal to create a new “Active Citizenship” as a new frontier for
Democracy in order to establish a bridge between the “Direct Democracy” and the “Representative Democracy”
The new Framework can contribute to the creation of a new social and political consciousness in the people and
the needed cultural awareness and knowledge for a more active participation to the social and political life.
Science is not the solution to all the problems of the Democracy, Politics, and Society. However, we can
realistically assume that an organic and structural transfer in the context of Politics, Burocracy and Public
Administration of Scientific Knowledge and Methodologies, (Strategic) Multiscale Multidisciplinary Science -
Engineering Integration Strategies and the new Generation of Strategic Multiscale Multidisciplinary Models,
HPC technologies AI and Data Analytics techniques could allow for a more effective management of the Society
as a whole.
The following Figure illustrates the systematic and progressive transfer of Knowledge from the Scientific and
Engineering Areas to the Political, Administrative and Implementation Contexts (Planning & Decision Making,
Cooperative Implementation Environments) through a chain of Multiscale Models. Sandia National Laboratories
are managed by the US Department of Energy (DoE) and they are among the largest R&D Laboratories in the
World.
Fig. 53 Multiscale Modeling and Simulation for Planning, Decision Making and Cooperative Implementation
(US Sandia National Laboratories)
8.2.2 Strategic Multiscale Science – Based Society: a New Perspective for Democracy,
Politics and Society
Science - Technology – Engineering Integration activities are already intensively pursued in the European and
International context. A strategic challenge recently dealt with is the 'Science - Technology - Engineering –
Society” Integration Process. Science today has a great responsibility in giving Politicians new means to fully
and effectively address the most complex Societal problems and shape a new "Cultural and Societal Policy. The
"Multiscale Science - Based Society" Framework integrates into a single "Conceptual, Methodological and
Application Context" a wide spectrum of several of the most important scientific advances and some new
concepts and methods. A key innovation is a new Multiscale Vision referred to as "Strategic Multiscale" which,
inside the Science – Based Society Framework, plays the role of “Knowledge integrator and Multiplier and
Unifying Paradigm for Science, Engineering, Society and the related Knowledge Domains”. This New
“Vision” allows to develop and apply “Unified Method and Strategies” to deal with highly complex Societal
and Political issues. Key features:
b) New Data, Information and Knowledge Structures and Organizational Schemes: Strategic
Multiscale Multidisciplinary Maps and Knowledge Domains. (see Paragraph 3.2)
Multiscale, Multidisciplinary Multi-Area Data collected from a full spectrum of sources (Sensing networks,
communication networks, social networks, computational models, experimental and testing techniques,..) are
being analyzed using Multiscale Data Analytics and Artificial Intelligence methods and techniques and turned
into “Strategic Multiscale Multidisciplinary Maps and Knowledge Domains”. This new “Information and
Knowledge” Structures key resources to
understand interactions and interdependencies of multiscale, multidisciplinary, multi-sector complex society
phenomena and processes.
develop new models and integrated strategies to design new solutions in a full spectrum of areas.
c) "Virtual Strategic Multiscale Innovative Technologies and Systems Design and Modeling
and Simulation Framework (or Virtual Multiscale Space – Time Machine) (see Paragraph 4.5)
and “Strategic Multiscale Digital Twin” (see Paragraph 3.3.5)
These Environments allow us to model, simulate , analyze and visualize the Space - Time Dynamics of any kind
of Complex Systems, the relevance of Innovative Technological, Engineering and System Solutions and
Evaluate their effectiveness to meet specific objectives. This new generation of Environments integrates the
developments described inside a) and b) items. The design, development and implementation of any kind of
"system" or "system of systems” may be seen as a process that develop over various spatial and temporal scales.
Accordingly, the same can be modeled and simulated using a wide range of Multiscale Multidisciplinary
Computational Models. Decision Support Systems allow for the execution of a wide range of analyses and
projects. Some examples:
- Analysis, Planning and Design or a wide spectrum of engineering, manufacturing, civil, infrastructural,
environmental, industrial and socio-economic projects
- Analysis of the Alternatives (AoA) and "Sensitivity" of the designed systems (any typology) with respect to
characteristics and performance changes in one or more " System Elements" and related interconnections
- Progressive Evaluation of results and compliance with pre-defined project objectives, which can be performed
during the project implementation phase, the system operational testing and, later, during the period of service
life.
In particular, the continuous integration of data that may be collected from the field with the mathematical
models allows for the development of new monitoring, control and management strategies of urban, energy,
industrial, socio-economic and environmental systems. Getting a continuously updated vision is of paramount
importance to assess the results of plans and programs and to decide on future developments. It is quite clear
that this scenario opens up entirely new and far-reaching perspectives for all of Planning, Design and
Management Processes of industrial, Social and Economic Systems. Connecting continuously updated
“Integrated Multiscale scientific, technology, engineering and ecological socio-economic models” with political
decision-making models makes it also possible to evaluate both the effects of technological, engineering and
manufacturing solutions on the Economy and the Society and the effectiveness of various Government
structures and plans.
Figure 54 Planning and Design of Development of Technological and Industrial Complex Systems: From
Materials to Devices, Products, Integration with Environmental and Socio-Economic Systems. (Georgia
Institute of Technology)
e) “Integrated Strategic Multiscale Science – Engineering - Society Earth and Space Cyber
Physical Cooperative Environments” (See Chapter 4)
These Environments and related Application Strategies are built upon the Multiscale Modeling and Simulation
as “Knowledge Integrators and Multipliers” and Unifying Paradigm for Scientific, Engineering and Complex
System Design Methodologies (Computational, Experimental and Sensing) and Knowledge Domains Concept.
This New Concept allows to integrate a wide spectrum of Cyber, HPC, and Physical Systems to shape “coherent
and unified analysis, planning, design and implementation strategies”. “Strategic Multiscale Digital Twin”
Environments can effectively implement this Concept.
Fig. 55 (from US Department of Energy) Multiscale Science Engineering Cyber Infrastructure linking a wide
spectrum of Facilities and Centers. Integrated Multiscale Science – Engineering Methods and Strategies allow to
manage all these Resources in a more effectively way than traditional approaches.
Inside this context, the "Virtual Strategic Multiscale Systems for Innovation and Economic - Industrial - -
Ecological – Social Development (or Virtual Multiscale Space – Time Machine)" and the new Strategic
Multiscale Science – Based Education, Information and Communication Frameworks can create integrated
groups that incorporate not only men of culture, politicians scientists, philosophers, sociologists, as happened at
the time when these values were defined but, also, scientists, technocrats, economists, ecologists, demographers,
experts from industry and finance, ... .. The integration of these Environments can represent an “Integrated
Multicultural Multidisciplinary Platform” to deal with the key problem to integrate a wide range of visions,
cultural fields and methods of analysis and evaluation inside a coherent conceptual framework that is marked by
a significant level of homogeneity. The “Integrated Platform” will be the conceptual basis to Design Plans
and Programs to update values and rights, implement them inside the new Society and evaluate effects and
consequences of possible new formulations on the Society Dynamics. Tasks:
analyzing the interactions and interdependencies between the various concerned fields and the various points
of view,
evaluating how fields interact and influence with each other and determine the Global Scenario.
designing a coherent society model
defining specific proposals and related strategies to implement proposals,
defining results evaluation criteria.
A particularly important element is that the use of the previously described strategies and methods, would
make political and programmatic decisions more transparent questionable and improvable in a more
objective and less generic fashion. A strategically important goal for every democracy.
The Integration of all the previously quoted "Virtual Strategic Multiscale Systems" with the new Generation of
Strategic Multiscale Multidisciplinary Education, Information and Communication Science-Based Frameworks
and Strategic Multiscale Digital Twin Environments incorporating Artificial Intelligence and Data Analysis
Systems, can have a major impact on all the problems and issues related to:
Socio-Economic Planning
Citizens – Political Environment relationships,
the formation of a "new Participatory Consciousness” of citizens in the Society
the development of a new Political Culture
the way citizens take part in the Political-Administrative decisions
the criteria used by both experts and citizens to evaluate the results of the Political and Administrative
decisions and the methods and strategies with which the " Political and Administrative" World
communicates with the Citizen: "no more slogans, generic and highly optimist statements, vague plans,
promises, ... .but problem analyses, projects, programs and strategies described through the use of Modeling
and Simulation Methods and Environments.
This new "Strategic Multiscale Science – Based Integrated Analysis, Planning and Design Framework" offers
the possibility of making visible, predictable, understandable and manageable to both politicians and citizens
and various social and economic/industrial entities, the utilization process of scientific progress and technology:
a key strategic goal to realize and implement a true "science – based democracy" and enable more effective
policies for a more efficient and dynamic Society. It is important to highlight that the “Multiscale Science-
Based Society” Framework can play an important role to make more evident the strategic value of scientific
and technological progress in the pursuit of social utility. The increasing difficulty to ensure a balanced and
sustained economic and earnings development to the entire social body, the growing difficulty of integrating
different cultures and visions of the world and to reconcile industrial development with environmental
conservation, can lead to a dangerous generalized skepticism not only towards the political and ruling classes,
but also towards the Technology and the role of Science in the Society's progress. It is needed to place science
and technology in a new " Conceptual, Methodological and Application Context " to be conceived within the
"Scientific World" but which, at the same time, it is also able to establish new relationships and
interdependencies between the same World and the "Society": a new “Integrated Science - Technology -
Engineering – Society” Context.
General Considerations
Frameworks such as the "Strategic Multiscale Science-Based Society" cannot be realistically
considered as a "Magic Solution" to problems that involve a complete overhaul of the "structure" of
the Society. It is possible, however, to say that Integrated Frameworks of this kind could contribute to
the definition of new important technological, industrial and socio-economic development policies that
are, at the same time, compatible with environmental constraints. This development context can also
definitely increase tax revenues. Furthermore, the new integrated data analysis techniques and their
integration with new models that simulate the socio-economic and financial activity may help to fight
tax evasion more effectively by providing a more accurate picture of the real socio-economic situation
and its evolution. Frameworks of this kind may also help to increase the efficiency of many
"Infrastructural Systems" (waste management, water, energy, transport, ...), Agricultural and Land
Management Systems reducing operating costs thanks to the introduction of new technologies and
engineering solutions and the use of "Virtual Strategic Multiscale Multidisciplinary Analysis, Design,
Decision Making and Evaluation Systems" to continuously evaluate and improve their performance.
.
The "Multiscale as Knowledge integrator and Multiplier and Unifying Paradigm for Science -
Engineering, Society and the related Knowledge Domains”, basic Concept and Vision of the “Strategic
Multiscale Science – Based Society Framework” together with Integrated Strategic Multiscale
Science - Based Education, Information and Communication Framework can be regarded as a
useful basis we can develop upon a “New Science and Knowledge Based Governance Culture”.
At this point, it is necessary to highlight how the concept of Multiscale as “Unifying Paradigm" for
Science, Technology, Engineering and Society can also be extended to Democracy, Politics and
Society. It is evident from the analysis described in the previous paragraphs that the methods and
strategies developed around this concept and strategy can be applied without substantial changes to a
wide range of topics and issues concerning Democracy, Politics and Society, enabling, in such a way, a
set of new integrated methodological approaches and strategies.
A New Knowledge and Science Based Governance Culture that apply, inside a “Unified Conceptual,
Analytical and Design Context”, the full spectrum of the “Strategic Multiscale Science – Based Society
Framework” Methodologies, Strategies and Environments, is a fundamental basis to achieve the Key Objectives
listed hereinafter:
A. Reinforce the Key Relationships between Fundamental Rights and Democracy. The
elaboration of the legal category of fundamental rights is the result of the emergence of democracy in the
twentieth century. A Democracy unable to guarantee all individuals the fundamental rights or, at least, a core of
inviolable rights, may not actually be defined as such.
Rights are intimately related to a set of actual values (pluralism, protection of minorities, civil and social rights,
substantive equality).A first observation is that to insert these values in a modern society we should take into
account that these values must necessarily be projected in a social and political reality that, today, is profoundly
different and, in particular, much more complex than the one in which the values have been defined. The impact
of science and technology and the processes of globalization have profoundly changed the world of work, the
structure of the economy, the influence of finance, communication, ... .. Therefore it is necessary today to create
integrated groups that incorporate not only men of culture, political scientists, philosophers, sociologists, as
happened at the time when these values were defined but, also, scientists, technocrats, economists, ecologists,
demographers, experts from industry and finance. These issues and challenges can be dealt with, within the
“Multiscale Science-Based Society Framework” context, applying new “Strategic Multiscale Science –
Engineering - Society Cooperative Environments” see Chapters 3 and 4) and the IMSE Framework (Chapter
2)
B. Design Integrated Policies for a Joint Labor, Social, Technology and Economic
Development
Although apparently the dominant form of government, democracy is a minority system in the world scenario,
remaining substantially heritage of Europe, North America, some Asia States (Japan,…) and Australia.
Democratic states, albeit to varying degrees, are based upon the redistribution of income and social promotion of
large sections of the lower classes. This strategy has gradually led to the creation of a medium-class which has
played a key role in the Society. The middle class of democratic states has also spread to the working class
integrating it into the system through the mechanisms of union bargaining and welfare policies. The social
promotion process is unfinished in the 80s due to the "fiscal crisis" of states, which prevented to expand Social
Policies and finance important Technological an Industrial investments in order to eradicate poverty and promote
innovation and economic development . In the last decade, due to the onset of the new economic crisis, we have
even seen a general impoverishment of the middle class and its progressive erosion, even in terms of numbers.
The increased insecurity and the displacement of entire production categories, because of the dynamics of the
global economy, have pushed into poverty even those who were endowed with "knowledge" and
"professionalism" that until a few years before allowed them to enjoy advantageous positions. The process is not
yet completed and raises important questions about the ability of democratic states to provide appropriate
responses in the first place to people which have traditionally represented the electoral base of the ruling parties.
And 'no doubt that on this ground you play the game of perspective. Modern Democracy cannot watch helplessly
growth in inequality, running the risk losing its value, credibility and usefulness and transform itself into a
system of rules functional only to legitimize the exercise of power, but unable to respond to the needs of the
people. The problem is now not only for domestic purposes, but it also concerns the poorest areas of the planet,
as demonstrated by massive migration processes. The Future of Democracy will therefore be conditioned by the
situation in the suburbs, whether urban, social or distributed over the world. Today all around the world the
precarious, temporary, underpaid and de-valued work has gradually grown in importance. The gradual de-
valuation of the "work" has had (and is having more and more), worldwide , extremely negative effects on the
social structure, the role of the "Middle Class" and his way of thinking. The spread of temporary jobs is a wide
phenomenon. This process leads to a sense of dissatisfaction and insecurity and in some cases of rabies. It also
has negative effects on the process of integrating immigrants. The temporary and underpaid worker is led to see
immigrants as a threat. Globally, the weight and relevance of the "Middle Class" is gradually reducing: what can
replace it? Not only, the "New Precarious Worker" is characterized by an increasing lack of confidence in the
"Institutions". The prospects are not rosy: the advancement of Robotics and Artificial Intelligence will have even
more deep effects and it may lead to a dangerous social polarization: a class made up of people with a high level
of education aimed at a creative work and roles of command and control and a large mass of unemployed and
underemployed people who, in the best of hypotheses, are aimed at low and very low-level jobs.
This theme presents a particular aspect and, from a certain point of view a “paradox”. It is precisely the
scientific, technological and engineering progress which creates the "problem." How can the same process be the
"solution" to the "problem" it has created? We consider three topics widely discussed in international field:
1) What Technological Innovation Policies should be adopted ?
a) The strategy of the "Free Market" which limits the Government's intervention
b) The strategy of the "Industrial Policies" which foresees a relevant intervention of the government
c) A balancing of the two strategies and eventually a their integration?
2) How to Assess the Impact of Technological Innovation on the of Industrial Development, Socio-Economic,
Employment Level Scenarios and last but not least on the ecological systems?
a) How to select the technologies that can produce the most significant impact on the development of Industry,
Economy and Employment Level?
3) How to Maximize the Impact of Scientific and Industrial Research on Technological Innovation?
a) What Analysis Methods and Evaluation Criteria?
b) How Structuring University - Research Centers and Technological Development - Industry - Finance
Collaboration Schemes and Strategies in this new reality?
The “Virtual Strategic Multiscale Space – Time Machines” and their extension: "Virtual Strategic Multiscale
Systems for Technology and Engineering Innovation and Economic - Industrial - Societal – Ecological
Development." can represent a possible initial partial answer to the problems set out in the previously quoted 1),
2) and 3) items. New Multiscale Multidisciplinary and Multi-Area Modeling tools and Strategic Multiscale
Multidisciplinary Science – Engineering - Society Integration Strategies can enable us to plan, design and
optimize the process of Technology Innovation and Industrial System Development by connecting them, through
a chain of mathematical models, with the Society Dynamics. All the issues described in the previous 1), 2) and
3) items can be analyzed and several alternatives evaluated. Integration with the “Multiscale Science – Based
Education, Training, Information and Communication Framework” can contribute to create the right “Cultural
Context” and “Cooperation Environment” where Knowledge gained in these contexts can be diffused.
Multiscale Science – Based Education, Information and Communication can also give an important contribution
to structure and organize a wide spectrum of opinions turning them into more specific solution proposals.
Strategic Multiscale Virtual Systems can also be an effective resource to combine timely and
effective decisions based on continuous analyses of an evolving socio-economic scenario
(adaptive and responsive strategies) with decisions on medium and long term programs.
An important element in the way of equal opportunities can be really realized is linked to Education (Cultural
and Professional Level).
In this context, specific programs should be designed and launched using also the new Multiscale Science –
Based Frameworks for Education, Information and Communication described in Chapter 5.
Once given equal opportunities, you should be able to reward merit. The balance between the objective of
guaranteeing everyone the satisfaction of basic needs and to reward those who have distinguished
themselves for commitment and desire to question the certainties, is an indispensable condition for
maintaining social cohesion. Education, Information, Training and Evaluation Programs (described in the
“Integrated Strategic Multiscale Science – Based Education, Information and Communication Framework”
(Chapter 4) )incorporating the “Virtual Strategic Multiscale Systems” described in the Paragraph 7.2,
could represent a new valuable Tool and Strategy to accomplish this Task
These Tasks can be dealt with by using the “Virtual Strategic Multiscale Science – Engineering - Society
Systems” described in the Paragraph 8.2.2
The Integration of field data collected from sensor networks with Computational Models included in the “Virtual
Strategic Multiscale Systems” can give an extra degree of validity and completeness of the "Open Data" concept
and would allow to continuously monitor the compliance degree with the original project from the technical,
operational, economic and environmental points of view. Evaluations can be carried out not only at the various
stages of the implementation of the Project but, also during the operational life. At the time of the definition of a
"project" (any kind: civil, environmental infrastructure, agricultural, social, economic, industrial development,
....) data analysis methods, sensor technologies (can be used not only the classic networks sensors but also,
surveys carried out by drones and aerospace systems) and environments to integrate data with modeling &
simulation strategies should be defined.
In short, a possible option to be carefully evaluated is the following: fewer laws and
decree-laws and clearer and well defined rules, less votes of confidence and more
questions and interpellations rationally motivated with the combined use of the previously
described “Virtual Strategic Multiscale Systems”, Data Collection Networks and Data
Analysis Systems and Strategic Multiscale Science – Based Education, Information and
Communication Frameworks. The elected assemblies must be able to sense if the
government program is implemented and if the activities of public administration was
relevant to public interests also using the new tools and systems described in the
previous paragraphs .
On the other hand, the democratic nature of decision-making must be guaranteed by a more stringent
application of the principle of political responsibility. The clear alternative between direct democracy and
representative democracy must now find spaces where citizens can, while not deciding, feel part of what the
elected politicians and the rulers do. This is possible, first, by increasing the transparency of the institutions.
Access to analytical and reliable information about public affairs at all levels, it is a prerequisite for the exercise
of what may be called "active citizenship." Active citizenship should be the new dimension of democracy, able
to occupy the no man's land which now exists between direct democracy and representative democracy.
The elect, the rulers and public officials in general will feel so subjected to a widespread and "professional
control" realized through a wide use of the new Virtual Systems and Multiscale Information and
Communication Tools and Systems. At the same time, the representatives will be able to better understand the
reasons of government choices through the use of the new Strategic Multiscale Education, Information and
Communications Methods and Frameworks.
An overhaul of the system as desired, must necessarily involve new organizational forms of political
participation. Today we are witnessing the dismantling or the spontaneous dispersion of the traditional structures
of political parties. What remains is the direct relationship with the leaders, managed through the media
(television and internet in the first place), and the systematic use of social networks. It 'a relationship
increasingly based on a delegation in white and on a one-way communication process. This may not be
satisfactory to achieve a more advanced level of democracy. Citizens must be empowered to find participatory
spaces that allow them to express in an organized and conscious their motions, proposals and criticisms.
The concept of "Active Citizenship" can find its comprehensive and effective implementation by
integrating the "Virtual Strategic Multiscale Space – Time Machines and related Decision Support
Systems" with a New Generation of Strategic Multiscale Education, Information and
Communication Frameworks like the ones briefly described in Paragraph 8.2.2
An at least partial solution to the problem of "forms of organization of political participation" can be found
implementing the following measures and activities:
A. Analyze and track detailed maps of the interactions and interdependencies between Political-
Administrative, Economic, Financial, Social Systems, Processes and Phenomena at various scales . The
basic objective is to understand how the decisions taken at the Global Levels affect (positively and or
negatively) organizations, systems, processes and phenomena at lower scales.
B. Evaluate "Rationally", according to a precise set of criteria (which also take into consideration the
different decision-making and operational contexts), the results of the Global and Supranational Policies
and their influence on the Political-Administrative Systems, Social and Economic, industrial, Scientific and
Technological Development.
C. avoid, from one side, the characteristic attitudes of technocratic oligarchies to state "there are no other
solutions" and "we need more Europe", without that these apodictic statements are substantiated by accurate
analysis, and, from the other side, purely localism attitudes and approaches which characterize, for
instance some countries and regions like Italy, Scotland, Catalonia or the Basque area.
D. Study solutions and systems that allow accurate and continuous monitoring and control of Global
Processes particularly in Economic, Social and Financial Areas. At the same time, new Legal, Regulatory
and Administrative Standards governing the influence of Global Processes on the lower levels could be
designed.
E. Inform "Citizens" of the actual situation and related trends at different scales in the various economic,
financial, industrial, social, ... sectors. The objective is to create a "culture" that is able to address the
problems created by the new generation of "Global Processes"
It 'important to note that in recent times is developing a trend that can be defined "dangerous": consider some
"Concepts", "Processes" and "institutions" of "Absolute Assets" outside and independently from in-depth and
rational analyses on what can be the effects and methods of their application. Any "process" like Globalization
and the formation of "Supranational Organizations" with ever greater powers as the 'European Union' should be
appropriately monitored, analyzed and evaluated and ruled on the basis of an analysis of the results and its
development prospects . In other words, the "Supranational System" should be "Adaptive" exactly like the
National Systems. These attributes represent a key feature of democracy. Consider some institutions and
processes as "Absolute and Unchangeable Assets" beyond any rational analysis is dangerous because it generates
extensive and very negative reactions, in many cases irrational. The so-called "populisms" are a demonstration
of this statement.
A first European Workshop on the “Multiscale Science – Engineering Integration” was organized by
Formica at ONERA (French Aerospace Research Center) premises in Paris (1996). Studies about Multiscale
and Applications were performed for EU and several European US Government Organizations.
In the Report “Fundamental R&D Trends in Academia and Research Centres and Their Integration into
Industrial Engineering” (September 2000), drafted for European Space Agency (ESA), a first version of an
“Integrated Multiscale Science-Engineering Framework” was outlined and its impact on R&D and
Engineering analyzed.
The White Book “Multiscale Science – Engineering Integration – A New Frontier for Aeronautics, Space
and Defense (May 2003) promoted by Italian Association of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIDAA)
introduced the concept of “Strategic Multiscale” and a more refined version of the related Integrated
Framework.
A Framework version specifically conceived for Industrial Applications: “Integrated Multiscale Science –
Based Technology, Product and Process Development” was applied in the context of the consulting
cooperation with Alenia Aeronautica and Finmeccanica Group (November 2006). Consulting activities with
Alenia Aeronautica and Finmeccanica gave the birth to one of the largest R&D Project in the Defense Area
funded by Italian Ministry of Defense and named “Nanotechnology Multiscale Project”.
The “Strategic Multiscale A New Frontier for R&D and Engineering” document which describes the
Formica Vision of the “Multiscale Science-Engineering Integration” has contributed, in the last years, to
define the Computational Modeling Vision of the European Technology Platform for Advanced Engineering
Materials and Technologies (EUMAT).
Multiscale Analyses and Studies were also carried out on behalf of Polytechnic of Milan and Turin and in
cooperation with University of Rome “La Sapienza” and University of Rome “Tor Vergata”. Seminars and
Lectures on Multiscale, in the recent years, were held at Polytechnic of Milan, Polytechnic of Turin, Centro
Sviluppo Materiali, Finmeccanica Group, Italian Ministry of Defense, Polimeri Europa (ENI Group),
University of Rome La Sapienza and University of Rome Tor Vergata.