Predicting the Future Completing Models of Observed Complex Systems [Hardcover]

Through the development of an exact path integral for use in transferring information from observations to a model of the observed system, the author provides a general framework for the discussion of model building and evaluation across disciplines. Through many illustrative examples drawn from models in neuroscience, geosciences, and nonlinear electrical circuits, the concepts are exemplified in detail. Practical numerical methods for approximate evaluations of the path integral are explored, and their use in designing experiments and determining a models consistency with observations is explored.This book discusses model building and evaluation across disciplines, by means of an exact path integral for transferring information from observations to a model of the observed system. Offers examples in geosciences, nonlinear electrical circuits and more.Preface.- 1 An Overview; The Challenge of Complex Systems.- 2 Examples as a Guide to the Issues.- 3 General Formulation of Statistical Data Assimilation.- 4 Evaluating the Path Integral.- 5 Twin Experiments.- 6 Analysis of Experimental Data.

Predicting the Future: Completing Models of Observed Complex Systems provides a general framework for the discussion of model building and validation across a broad spectrum of disciplines. This is accomplished through the development of an exact path integral for use in transferring information from observations to a model of the observed system. Through many illustrative examples drawn from models in neuroscience, fluid dynamics, geosciences, and nonlinear electrical circuits, the concepts are exemplified in detail. Practical numerical methods for approximate evaluations of the path integral are explored, and their use in designing experiments and determining a model's consistency with observations is investigated.

Using highly instructive examples, the problems of data assimilation and the means to treat them are clearly illustrated.lc7