- autonomous sensing technologies for exploration and research with intelligent assistance for the Mission Analytics Technology and Research for Innovative eXploitation (MATRIX) projectautonomous sensing technologies for exploration and research with intelligent assistance for the Mission Analytics Technology and Research for Innovative eXploitation (MATRIX) project
Beavercreek, Ohio – On September 30, 2024, the U.S. Department of Defense announced that Parallax Advanced Research Corp. was awarded a cost-plus-fixed-fee contract by the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) Autonomy Capability Team (ACT3) totaling $8,999,645.00. The contract base period end date is October 2027 with the option to extend the performance period until May 2029 to include $5.99 million in additional funding. The work will be performed at Parallax’s facilities in Beavercreek, Ohio. This follow-on contract, which is the third consecutive supporting ACT3 and is the longest period of performance and highest ceiling Parallax has received in support of ACT3, funds the nonprofit research institute to continue developing autonomous sensing technologies for exploration and research with intelligent assistance for the Mission Analytics Technology and Research for Innovative eXploitation (MATRIX) project. MATRIX aims to enhance human-machine teaming and optimize human performance in modern military operations.
MATRIX will continue to leverage Parallax's extensive expertise in advanced research methodologies across artificial intelligence and human-machine teaming to develop intelligent assistance systems that enhance the capabilities of human-machine teams, their decision-making processes, analytic efficiency and effectiveness, and operational readiness in complex environments. Parallax’s work will entail informing design principles and theories related to human performance, cognitive and biological processes.
“Parallax is uniquely positioned to support this initiative,” said Dr. Othalia Larue, director of Cognitive Al at Parallax Advanced Research. “Our interdisciplinary approach combines cutting-edge research in cognitive science, artificial intelligence, software engineering and system design, ensuring that our solutions are not only innovative but also aligned with the needs of the AirForce.”
The Parallax team will continue applying Reinforcement Learning (RL) to spacecraft operations. This year, notably, in collaboration with the LINCS and SPACER labs in Albuquerque, the team was able to test its algorithms in real-world settings using unmanned aerial vehicles as proxies for spacecraft dynamics on commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) and radiation-tolerant processors.
Parallax’s cognitive scientists will also continue their work on the SFT-GMA framework, a combination of systems factorial technology (SFT) and global model analysis (GMA) for the evaluation of core assumptions in Cognitive Architectures (i.e., cognition's structure and function, showing subsystem interactions).
The Parallax team also just started a collaboration with USAFSAM, which the team hopes will lead to the development of novel algorithms supporting triage and logistics.
Historical Context of MATRIX
In June 2022, Parallax was awarded $97.5 million for the AFRL MATRIX contract. By leveraging cutting-edge research and technology, Parallax aimed to bolster national security while contributing to Ohio's economic vitality. The contract was expected to generate approximately $87 million in payroll over seven years, reinforcing the state’s position as a leader in aerospace and defense and creating high-quality job opportunities for local professionals.
Parallax solves critical challenges for the Nation's security and prosperity
Parallax is committed to advancing the defense sector's technological capabilities through rigorous research and development. The organization’s strong track record of delivering innovative solutions and its deep understanding of military requirements make it an invaluable partner for government agencies, including the Air Force, Navy, DARPA, and others.
For more information about Parallax Advanced Research and its initiatives, please visit https://parallaxresearch.org/.
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About Parallax Advanced Research & The Ohio Aerospace Institute
Parallax Advanced Research is a 501(c)(3) private nonprofit research institute that tackles global challenges through strategic partnerships with government, industry, and academia. It accelerates innovation, addresses critical global issues, and develops groundbreaking ideas with its partners. With offices in Ohio and Virginia, Parallax aims to deliver new solutions and speed them to market. In 2023, Parallax and the Ohio Aerospace Institute formed a collaborative affiliation to drive innovation and technological advancements in Ohio and for the nation. The Ohio Aerospace Institute plays a pivotal role in advancing the aerospace industry in Ohio and the nation by fostering collaborations between universities, aerospace industries, and government organizations, and managing aerospace research, education, and workforce development projects. More information on both organizations can be found at Parallax and OAI websites.
