Purdue-affiliated tech company lands military contract
Subscriber Benefit
As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe Now
LAFAYETTE, Ind. - A software company affiliated with Purdue University that has developed an AI-tool that helps better predict when parts are close to becoming obsolete has won a contract with the agency that manages supply chain needs for the U.S. military.
Quantum Research Sciences received the Phase I Small Business Innovation Research contract from the Defense Logistics Agency, Purdue said in a news release. The software company plans to create a product obsolescence prediction tool using artificial intelligence, machine learning and quantum computing to improve supply chain management.
“Predicting and managing obsolescence is a complicated task,” CEO Ethan Krimins said in the release. “It necessitates a delicate balance between fulfilling combat requirements, budgeting, ensuring supplier stability, mitigating material failures, accommodating design alterations and monitoring system life cycles, among many other variables.”
He said effective obsolescence management is fundamental to effective logistical management.
“Managing obsolescence will streamline the procurement and upkeep of components within the supply chain, reducing operational disruptions and bolstering readiness,” he said. “This capability not only ensures the availability of needed parts but also contributes to a robust supply chain that can adeptly respond to evolving demands.”
Terms of the contract were not disclosed.
The Defense Logistics Agency manages the end-to-end global defense supply chain for the five military services; federal, state and local agencies; and allied nations.
Quantum Research Sciences, based in Lafayette, focuses on the development of practical quantum software, the news release said. It is a Purdue Innovates client company and an affiliate company of the Purdue Quantum Science and Engineering Institute.
A year ago the company received a $2.5 million contract to deliver the U.S. Department of Defense’s first operational, production-level quantum computing software, Inside INdiana Business reported. The software aims to improve accuracy and optimize the Air Force’s supply chain management.