Case Studies & Projects

Algorithms behind hard challenges

The most interesting optimization problems rarely exist in isolation. A production sequence changes transport options. A cargo item changes the space remaining for everything else. A sensor assigned to one observation cannot observe another target at the same time.

These accounts look at the work undertaken by 4colors and its collaborators, how the problems were framed, and what the available evidence establishes. A competition result, a proof of concept and an experiment on quantum hardware demonstrate different things. Each deserves its own accurate story.

Quantum and hybrid research

  • Proof of concept

    Testing quantum-enhanced optimization against aerospace planning problems

    A proof-of-concept study moves from research ideas toward industrial planning evaluation.

    Read the project account

  • Implemented experiment

    Aircraft cargo loading across classical and quantum hardware

    A 4colors-led collaboration implemented and evaluated hybrid approaches using different quantum systems.

    Read the project account

  • Competition

    Where quantum algorithms might improve classical optimization

    The XPRIZE semifinalist work investigates where a quantum component might help inside a broader search.

    Read the project account

Networks, scheduling and national research projects

  • Implemented experiment

    Nineteen years, three hundred tasks, a better schedule

    How 4colors found new answers to a scheduling challenge that has occupied optimization researchers for nearly two decades.

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Browse the complete archive

Search case studies
ProjectEvidenceTopic
Where Quantum Algorithms Might Improve Classical OptimizationCompetitionQuantum Applications
Testing Quantum-Enhanced Optimization Against Aerospace Planning ProblemsProof of conceptQuantum Applications
Aircraft Cargo Loading Across Classical and Quantum HardwareImplemented experimentQuantum Applications
Nineteen years, three hundred tasks, a better scheduleImplemented experimentAlgorithms and Benchmarking