How we helped develop a revolutionary AI application

SRI International, one of the world’s leading scientific research institutes, is playing a lead role in the development of DARPA’s PAL program—the “Personalized Assistant that Learns.”

The mission of PAL is to radically improve the way that computers support humans by enabling systems that can reason, learn from experience, be told what to do, explain their actions, and respond robustly to surprise.

CHALLENGE

PAL is developing prototype cognitive systems that can act as assistants for commanders and staff in battlefield situations. Accurate, timely communication between program customers, partners, and technologists is vital to ultimate success.

SOLUTION

Loma Media produced a scenario-based LomaVisionÔ presentation designed to help define and refine the initial vision. Distributed in 10 and 4-minute versions, it played a valuable role in shaping the expectations and understanding of the technologists tasked with designing core capabilities. In addition, it provided a common basis of understanding for communities involved in the project, speeding consensus and illuminating areas of discussion.

As the program advanced into prototype phase, additional video programs were produced that documented and demonstrated the program’s progress through each phase.

We developed and launched a dedicated micro site to provide information in depth about the program’s progress, status, phased implementation, related programs and transitional opportunities. The “layered” design allows viewers to gain quick insight or electively drill down into video and text content that provides comprehensive application demonstrations and technology specifications.

RESULTS

In December 2008, the Army Battle Command Battle Lab hosted an experimental test of PAL capabilities by challenging two Brigade Combat Teams in a demanding, real-world scenario.  The test, documented by Loma, was deemed successful.

DARPA expects the PAL program to generate innovative ideas that result in new science, new approaches to current problems, new algorithms and tools, as well as new technology of significant value to the military.