Applications of a Reconfigurable Array of Flexible Processors in Intelligence Information Retrieval.

Abstract

Abstract : The objective of this study was to investigate the applicability of a Reconfigurable Array of Flexible Processors, with enhanced word processing capabilities, to the problem of document retrieval. The work performed during the study falls into three categories. First, the intelligence information retrieval application at AFSC Foreign Technology Division (FTD), Wright-Patterson AFB OH was analyzed for characteristics which might serve as system design and performance evaluation measures. The analysis was conducted by reviewing the data base and system usage characteristics at FTD and by synthesizing and analyzing a small experimental data base. From this, several areas in which the Reconfigurable Array with an associative processing unit might be used to advantage were identified, and a number of system sizing parameters were found. The second category of work included the design modification and fabrication of an exploratory model of an associative unit, and its integration with a laboratory Reconfigurable Array. The third category of effort included the development and exercising of a demonstration document retrieval system using a Reconfigurable Array of Flexible Processors, the Exploratory Development Model Associative Unit, and the experimental data base. The results of the evaluations performed during the study indicate that a Reconfigurable Array with a fully populated Associative Unit should perform searches about 200 times faster than the current system.