Computational intelligence specialist Altair has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Cranfield University to explore and expand the use of AI, simulation, and data analytics within the aerospace and robotics industries.

Troy, Michigan, based Altair provides the Altair RapidMiner data analytics and AI platform. The platform includes Altair AI Studio and Altair SLC, an SAS compiler. It runs programs written in SAS, Python, R and SQL, and can mix, match and pipe modules written in any of these languages.

UK-based Cranfield University is a specialist research and development university with a strong focus on aerospace, defence, automation, and manufacturing.

Both organisations will support students, researchers, and start-ups looking to harness computational intelligence within the aerospace and robotics industries.

“Cranfield University is a proven leader and innovator in aerospace and beyond,” said Pietro Cervellera, senior vice president of aerospace and defence, Altair. “This MoU is just the first step in developing new breakthroughs and helping organisations of all kinds explore the immense power of simulation, data analytics, and AI within aerospace.”

“We’re looking forward to working together with Altair to identify ways we can integrate technologies to support students and their research projects, and accelerate start-ups already working with Cranfield,” said professor Antonios Tsourdos, director of AI, robotics, and space, Cranfield University. “We anticipate great things from our joint efforts and are delighted to work with Altair experts to drive next-generation aerospace innovation.”