Student Travel Support for 2010 Inverse Problems Symposium, June 6-8, at Michigan State University

Michigan State University, East Lansing MI

Investigators

Abstract

1036159 Dolan Inverse techniques for application to heat transfer problems can impact, perhaps significantly, the solution of problems ranging from experimental determination of thermophysical or other properties of materials, to the specification of appropriate protocol for applying thermal-based treatments aimed at producing a desired therapeutic outcome. Mathematical-based and rigorous inverse solution methods have the potential to replace costly trial-and-error, and brute-force forward predictions. Intellectual Merit. This grant provides partial support for graduate students to attend the 2010 Inverse Problems Symposium at Michigan State University on June 6 - 8, 2010. Inverse problems have received increasing attention in the heat transfer and thermal transport processes community, and novel methods are needed in order to effectively utilize recent advances in, for example, computational architecture. One benefit of a rigorous inverse analysis is its ability to unveil multiple solutions for a given objective function. These otherwise-unknown, yet valid solutions may be more economical to implement, may produce less waste or consume less energy, and may provide enhanced productivity in an industrial setting. Broader Impacts. NSF funding will provide support for the attendance at the symposium by engineering and food science graduate students who are engaged in heat transfer research. The students will be provided with a unique opportunity to interact with a highly-multidisciplinary cadre of international leaders in the field of inverse problems and solution methodologies. Efforts will be made to identify and involve participants from underrepresented groups.