QRA uses emerging technology to more effectively validate and verify complex systems for large-scale clients
March 25, 2014 Halifax, NS Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
With safety-critical systems becoming increasingly complex, companies are spending significant sums of money for verification and validation (V&V) software to ensure the safety and accuracy of their products. Quantum Research Analytics (QRA) is turning this challenge into an opportunity, thanks to assistance from the Government of Canada.
QRA is a Halifax-based start-up specializing in the development and implementation of advanced, user-friendly, V&V software platforms for industrial applications. QRA’s platform is being developed to take advantage of large scale computing frameworks, such as super computers and cloud architecture. It will also be compatible with the expanding field of quantum computers, an area of significant global research and industrial interest.
QRA’s technology will assist the systems engineering industry to isolate errors in the design phase of a project. This will increase testing effectiveness and decrease overall project costs, saving companies millions of dollars. Additionally, the software being developed by QRA will be able to find faults in existing safety-critical equipment systems by predicting fault scenarios.
Lockheed Martin has recently signed a contract with QRA to support the continued development of this software. The Government of Canada is investing $500,000 in QRA, through ACOA’s Business Development Program.
Quick Facts
- QRA was developed out of industry sponsored research that began in 2007. The research was completed in conjunction with Lockheed Martin, who provided QRA access to a quantum computer to find a solution to its rising V&V costs.
- Systems testing, consuming up to 50% of development costs, is the fastest-growing cost for new safety-critical integrated systems such as cars, aircrafts, and power plants.
- QRA’s first office opened in Halifax in January 2014.
- QRA is one of only a handful of organizations worldwide with access to a quantum computer. Most recently, one was acquired by a NASA/Google consortium.
Quotes
“QRA is a small but ambitious company with the potential to revolutionize the way systems verification and validation is conducted. Our Government’s repayable investment will support QRA in the ongoing development of innovative products and processes, which will help build the company’s national and international reputation.”
The Honourable Rob Moore
Minister of State (Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency)
“Our market will experience tremendous growth, creating a unique opportunity. We have a strong team and visionary, industry-leading partners. Together, QRA will grow strong as a Nova Scotia-based company with global reach."
Dr. Jordan Kyriakidis
Cofounder of QRA
Associated Links
QRA
D-Wave Systems (Quantum computer used by QRA)
Contacts
Kelsie Corey
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of State
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
613-941-7241
Alex Smith
Director, Communications and Outreach
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
902-426-9417 / 902-830-3839 (cell)
Email: Alex.Smith@acoa-apeca.gc.ca
Jordan Kyriakidis
Cofounder of QRA
902-266-5502
Email: jordan@qracorp.com
