Detecting Depinning and Nonequilibrium Transitions with Unsupervised Machine Learning

Using numerical simulations of a model disk system, we demonstrate that a machine learning generated order parameter can detect depinning transitions and different dynamic flow phases in systems driven far from equilibrium. We specifically consider monodisperse passive disks with short range interactions undergoing a depinning phase transition when driven over quenched disorder. The machine learning derived order parameter identifies the depinning transition as well as different dynamical regimes, such as the transition from a flowing liquid to a phase separated liquid-solid state that is not readily distinguished with traditional measures such as velocity-force curves or Voronoi tessellation. The order parameter also shows markedly distinct behavior in the limit of high density where jamming effects occur. Our results should be general to the broad class of particle-based systems that exhibit depinning transitions and nonequilibrium phase transitions.