Showing papers on "System integration published in 1996"

A framework for event-based software integration

Abstract: Although event-based software integration is one of the most prevalent approaches to loose integration, no consistent model for describing it exists. As a result, there is no uniform way to discuss event-based integration, compare approaches and implementations, specify new event-based approaches, or match user requirements with the capabilities of event-based integration systems. We attempt to address these shortcomings by specifying a generic framework for event-based integration, the EBI framework, that provides a flexible, object-oriented model for discussing and comparing event-based integration approaches. The EBI framework can model dynamic and static specification, composition, and decomposition and can be instantiated to describe the features of most common event-based integration approaches. We demonstrate how to use the framework as a reference model by comparing and contrasting three well-known integration systems: FIELD, Polylith, and CORBA.

Supermarkets and suppliers in the United Kingdom: System integration, information and control

Abstract: This paper raises the issue of control in new organizational configurations where information and communication technology is the critical enabler of business integration. It is organized around two guiding questions; how and why major U.K. supermarkets have taken control and dominance of the food market, and the role of information technology and accounting information in replacing market relationships. The study illustrates the way in which markets can be structured and controlled by strategic reconfiguration of supply sources and customer outlets.

Endeavors: a process system integration infrastructure

Abstract: As software projects evolve, possibly differing in size, complexity, scope and purpose, the development processes that support the project must evolve to reflect these changes. For a distributed project, maintaining proper communications, coordinating between project stakeholders, and maintaining managerial control become increasingly important and, unfortunately, increasingly difficult. The Endeavors system is an open, distributed process modeling and execution infrastructure that addresses communication, coordination, and control issues. Complex processes may require: (a) distribution of people and processes; event based and intermediate format integration of external tools; a low entry barrier through ease of use and incremental adoption; ability to customize and reuse objects, tools, and policies; and dynamic change of runtime processes, objects, and behaviors. Endeavors' solution architecture achieves these goals through application of five key design strategies: (1) maintaining multiple object model layers; (2) implementing the architecture as a set of highly componentized, lightweight, transportable, concurrent elements; (3) providing customization capabilities for each layer of the object model; (4) using a reflexive object model to support dynamic change; and (5) allowing dynamic loading and changing of objects including loading of executable handlers, new object types, and extensions. We discuss these goals and design strategies, describe the architecture, and describe the current status of the project and its relevance to its own development.

Multimodal Virtual Reality: Input-Output Devices, System Integration, and Human Factors

Abstract: Virtual reality (VR) involves multimodal interactions with computer‐simulated worlds through visual, auditory, and haptic feedback. This article reviews the state of the art in special‐purpose input‐output devices, such as trackers, sensing gloves, 3‐D audio cards, stereo displays, and haptic feedback masters. The integration of these devices in local and network‐distributed VR simulation systems is subsequently discussed. Finally, we present human‐factor studies that quantify the benefits of several feedback modalities on simulation realism and sensorial immersion. Specifically, we consider tracking and dextrous manipulation task performance in terms of error rates and learning times when graphics, audio, and haptic feedback are provided.

Cross-linked development and deployment apparatus and method

Abstract: A cross-linked development and deployment system that links system design, simulation, real-time emulation, integration, and in-system verification to system implementation in the field, creating final products that are field programmable systems on printed circuit boards or field programmable systems on silicon. In a preferred embodiment, hardware and software models are created and verified in an integrated co-development environment. These models can be synchronized with each other and can also be used for in-circuit emulation and in-system verification of the system under development. Once the system has gone through verification and completed system integration, the system design database that has been generated from that testing is used to program either a field programmable printed circuit board or a field programmable system on silicon. In either case, connections are embedded in the field programmable final product that enable it to link back into the integrated co-development environment so that results created by the final product can be compared with results stored in the integrated co-development environment. The final product can also be connected to the integrated co-development environment for further analysis.

Multimodal virtual reality: input-output devices, system integration, and human factors

Abstract: Virtual reality (VR) involves multimodal interactions with computer‐simulated worlds through visual, auditory, and haptic feedback. This article reviews the state of the art in special‐purpose input‐output devices, such as trackers, sensing gloves, 3‐D audio cards, stereo displays, and haptic feedback masters. The integration of these devices in local and network‐distributed VR simulation systems is subsequently discussed. Finally, we present human‐factor studies that quantify the benefits of several feedback modalities on simulation realism and sensorial immersion. Specifically, we consider tracking and dextrous manipulation task performance in terms of error rates and learning times when graphics, audio, and haptic feedback are provided.

Heterogeneous personal communications services: integration of PCS systems

Abstract: Personal communications services (PCS) are being introduced to offer ubiquitous communication. In its first phase PCS consists of a plethora of systems that address cellular, vehicular, cordless phone, and a variety of other services. The integration of these different systems is referred to as "heterogeneous PCS (HPCS)". We describe the various PCS systems available and address in detail the issue of PCS systems integration. Key implementation issues for integrating PCS systems are defined and discussed.

What is systems engineering? a consensus of senior systems engineers1

Abstract: Systems Engineering is an interdisciplinary process that ensures that the customer's needs are satisfied throughout a system's entire life cycle. This process includes understanding customer needs, stating the problem, discovering system requirements, defining performance & cost figures of merit, validating requirements, defining technical performance measures, prescribing tests, exploring alternative concepts, sensitivity analyses, functional decomposition, system modeling, system design, designing and managing interfaces, conducting design reviews, system integration, total system test, configuration management, risk management, reliability analysis, total quality management, project management, and documentation.

Special-purpose digital hardware for neural networks: an architectural survey

Abstract: This paper presents a survey of digital systems to implement neural networks. We consider two basic options for designing these systems: parallel systems with standard digital components and parallel systems with custom processors. We describe many examples under each option, with an emphasis on commercially available systems. We report a first trend toward more general architectures and a second trend toward simple and fast structures. We discuss our experience in running a small ANN problem on two of these machines. After a reasonable programming effort, we obtain good convergence, but most of the training times are actually slower or moderately faster than on a serial workstation. We conclude that it is important to chose one's problems carefully, and that support software and in general, system integration, is only beginning to reach the level of versatility that many researchers will require.

A System for Non-Intrusive Human Iris Acquisition and Identification.

Abstract: IPV-I An automated system for the non-intrusive acquisition of images of human irises for the purpose of identity verification is described. This system uses active machine vision techniques, and does not require the user to make any physical contact with the system, or to assume any particular pose except that he stand with his head within a designated calibrated volume. The system integrates a broad range of vision and control algorithms, and hence represents a major achievement in system integration. Currently, the system has been developed to the level of a robust prototype. It has been tested on over 600 people, and the results are impressive. A proposed use of the system is for identity verification at automatic teller machines to reduce the NFOV Camera frequency of fraud. In this paper, the overall control structure of the sys- Figure 1: Schematic of the components of the system is delineated, and each of the algorithmic modules is tem for the acquisition of high-resolution images of described. Preliminary test results are reported and dis- human irises for identity verification. cussed.

Towards a better understanding of electronic document management

Abstract: Documents are central to the functioning of an organization. Among other roles, they are critically, important as a means of communication, as organizational memory, and in business processes. In addition, office workers spend as much as 60 percent of their time handling documents. For these reasons, many organizations have tried to improve document handling and use through the application of information technology: but progress in this area has been slow. However, recent technological advances, such as new storage technologies, higher computation speeds, and system integration are lifting many of the traditional restrictions on the conversion of paper to electronic systems, and on the media richness of these electronic documents. As a result, many of the envisioned benefits of electronic document management (EDM) are within reach. Successful exploitation of these benefits requires managers to address specific issues in system design, system implementation, and organizational support.

Systems integration via software risk management

Abstract: This paper addresses an evolutionary process currently taking place in software engineering: the shift from hardware to software, where the role of software engineering is increasing and is becoming more central in systems integration. This shift also markedly affects the sources of risk that are introduced throughout the life cycle of a system's development-its requirements, specifications, architecture, process, testing, and end product. Risk is commonly defined as a measure of the probability and severity of adverse effects. Software technical risk is defined as a measure of the probability and severity of adverse effects inherent in the development of software. Consequently, risk assessment and management, as a process, will more and more assume the role of an overall cross-functional system integration agent. Evaluating the changes that ought to take place in response to this shift in the overall pattern leads to two challenges. One is the need to reassess the role of a new breed of software systems engineers/systems integrators. The other is the need to develop new and appropriate metrics for measuring software technical risk. Effective systems integration necessitates that all functions, aspects, and components of the system must be accounted for along with an assessment of most risks associated with the system. Furthermore, for software-intensive systems, systems integration is not only the integration of components, but is also; an understanding of the functionality that emerges from the integration. Indeed, when two or more software components are integrated, they often deliver more than the sum of what each was intended to deliver; this integration adds synergy and enhances functionality. In particular, the thesis advanced in this paper is that the process of risk assessment and management is an imperative requirement for successful systems integration; this is especially true for software-intensive systems. In addition, this paper advances the premise that the process of risk assessment and management is also the sine qua non requirement for ensuring against unwarranted time delay in a project's completion schedule, cost overrun, and failure to meet performance criteria. To achieve the aspired goal of systems integration a hierarchical holographic modeling (HHM) framework, which builds on previous works of the authors, has been developed. This HHM framework constitutes seven major considerations, perspectives, venues, or decompositions, each of which identifies the sources of risk in systems integration from a different, albeit with some overlap, viewpoint: software development, temporal perspective, leadership, the environment, the acquisition process, quality, and technology.

Systems integration in telerobotics: case study: maintenance of electric power lines

Abstract: Teleoperation has been proven useful for maintenance of power distribution networks in Japan, the United States, Canada, and in Europe. It is generally thought, however, that automation would greatly improve performance. Telerobotics can indeed compensate for the losses of dexterity and sensory feedback caused by practical manipulation and vision systems. Time delays and communication bandwidth are not an issue, however, and operators are still required for decision making, hence autonomy is not a goal in itself in this application. This paper presents how the operator and practical robotic techniques are used together to form a complete system, and illustrates the capabilities of that system. We show that simple graphical interfaces can guide the operator through a series of operations to mediate the manual and automatic phases of the tasks. To this end, robot and sensor functions are available at various levels of abstraction, allowing interactions ranging from delicate manual control to task supervision, including various levels of cooperation between the human and the machines. The system includes multiple robots, force sensors and tools, video cameras and laser range sensors, as well as a number of hand controllers, the integration of which requires techniques such as impedance control, force feedback, kinematic calibration and image processing. We stress the importance of the validation of theories in complete applications to reveal the real problems, and we point out and discuss some of those practical problems.

Health system integration: a means to an end.

Abstract: The creation of integrated firms and contractual networks in health care often is a precondition for other forms of integration that could actually lower costs and improve quality of care Although different types of integration activities are leading to innovations in the production of services and the care of populations, the continued influence of the “old” indemnity insurance/fee-for-service system creates important obstacles to those integration activities If creation of integrated firms and contractual networks races ahead of other forms of integration, it could produce uncompetitive markets that reduce pressures to integrate in ways that can cut costs and improve quality of care Purchasers' actions could play a major role in determining the future of various integration activities

Enterprise integration — engineering tools for designing enterprises

Abstract: With the globalisation of economies, enterprises are more viewed as ‘products’ themselves. This is quite obvious for green field companies as they are designed, built and put into operation as the customer requires. The product view, however, is also true for already existing enterprises. New business priorities have to be analysed, changes have to be specified, designed and carried out, and the design of an enterprise may take a considerable effort.

Application of database systems in diabetes care.

Abstract: The St Vincent Declaration includes a commitment to continuous quality improvement in diabetes care. This necessitates the collection of appropriate information to ensure that diabetes services are efficient, effective and equitable. The quantity of information, and the need for rapid access, means that this must be computer-based. The choice of architecture and the design of a database for diabetes care must take into account available equipment and operational requirements. Hardware topology may be determined by the operating system and/or netware software. An effective database system will include: user-friendliness, rapid but secure access to data, a facility for multiple selections for analysis and audit, the ability to be used as part of the patient consultation process, the ability to interface or integrate with other applications, and cost efficiency. An example of a clinical information database for diabetes care, Diamond, is described.

NPS Phoenix AUV software integration and in-water testing

Abstract: The NPS Phoenix autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) is a student research testbed for shallow-water minefield mapping missions. We discuss implementation of the execution, tactical and strategic levels of the rational behavior model robot architecture. Simulation-based design using an underwater virtual world has been a crucial advantage permitting rapid development of disparate software and hardware modules. Details are provided on process coordination, navigation, real-time sonar classification, path replanning around detected obstacles, networking, sonar and hydrodynamics modeling, and distributable computer graphics rendering. In-water experimental results are presented and evaluated.

Integrated product and process organization

Abstract: Computer Acronyms. Preface. Acknowledgments. About the Author. 1. Manufacturing Competitiveness. Introduction. Review of Historical Events. Push and Pull for New Paradigms. Areas of Manufacturing Competitiveness. Product and Services. Process and Methodologies. Performance Indicators. Infrastructure. References. Test Problems: Manufacturing Competitiveness. 2. Life-Cycle Management. Introduction. Shrinking Life-Cycle. Life-Cycle Management. New Product Introduction. Strategic Technology Insertions. Managing Continuity. Managing Revision Changes. Life-Cycle Cost Drivers. Life-Cycle Management Tools. Sequential versus Concurrent Engineering. References. Test Problems: Life-Cycle Management. 3. Process Reengineering. Introduction. Understanding and Managing Change. Reengineering Approaches. Tenents of Process Improvement. Work Flow Mapping. Information Flow-Charting. Enterprise Models. Process Improvement Methodology. Change Management Methodology. Concurrent Process Reengineering. Concluding Remarks. References. Test Problems: Process Reengineering. 4. Concurrent Engineering Definitions. Introduction. Basic Principles of CE. Components of CE. Concurrency and Simultaneity. Modes of Concurrency. Modes of Cooperation. Benefits of Concurrent Engineering. References. Test Problems: CE Definitions. 5. Cooperative Work Teams. Introduction. Cooperative Concurrent Teams. Program Organization. Supplier Rationalization. Types of CE Organization. Management Styles or Philosophies. Workplace Organization and Visual Control. Employee Excellence Development (New Technologies and Team Capabilities). References. Test Problems: Cooperative Work Teams. 6. System Engineering. Introduction. An Automobile Manufacturing Process. System Engineering. Systems Thinking. Approaches to System Complexity. Sharing and Collaboration in CE 300. System Integration. Management and Reporting Structure. Agile Virtual Company. References. Test Problems: System Engineering. 7. Information Modeling. Introduction. Information Modeling. Modeling Methodology. Foundation of Information Modeling. Concurrent Engineering Process Invariant. Enterprise Model-Class. Specification Model-Class. Product Model-Class. Process Model- Class. Cognitive Models. Merits and Demerits. Summary. References. Test Problems: Information Modeling. 8. The Whole System. Introduction. Conventional Design and Development Process. A Transformation Model for a Manufacturing System. CE Enterprise System Taxonomy. Integrated Product and Process Development. Transformation System for Product Realization. Key Dimensions of a CE Specification Set. Artifact's Intent Definitions. References. Test Problems: The Whole System. 9. Product Realization Taxonomy. Introduction. Development Methodology for CPRT. Concurrent Product Realization Taxonomy. Pull System of Product Realization. Description of Parallel Tracks. Description of 2-T Loops. Description of 3-T Loops. Major Benefits. References. Test Problems: Product Realization Taxonomy. Index.

Integrated Smart Power Circuits Technology, Design and Application

Abstract: Integrated smart power circuits gain more and more importance, as many segments of microelectronics move towards system integration. The combination of many functions - analog, digital and power - on a single chip enable the design and production of even more miniaturized systems for different applications in the fields of automotive, industrial, telecommunication and electronic data processing. This paper gives an introduction to the available semiconductor technologies, shows some circuit design issues related to the problems of smart power ICs, presents some typical circuit examples and focuses on available real products for different application areas. A discussion of future technical trends under the constraints of extremely price-sensitive markets concludes the paper.

Embedded architecture co-synthesis and system integration

Abstract: Embedded system architectures comprising of software programmable components (e.g. DSP, ASIP, and micro-controller cores) and customized hardware co-processors, integrated into a single cost-efficient VLSI chip, are emerging as a key solution to today's microelectronics design problems. This trend is being driven by new emerging applications in the areas of wireless communication, high-speed optical networking, and multimedia computing. A key problem confronted by embedded system designers today is the rapid prototyping of application-specific embedded system architectures where different combinations of programmable processors and hardware components must be integrated together, while ensuring that the hardware and software parts communicate correctly. In this paper, we present a solution to this embedded architecture co-synthesis and system integration problem based on an orchestrated combination of architectural strategies, parameterized libraries, and software CAD tools.

A machining process planning activity model for systems integration

Abstract: A key issue of integrating process planning systems with design systems and production planning systems is how to overcome barriers in data exchange and sharing amongst software systems. A machining process planning activity model was developed to address some of the barriers. This model represents functional components and data requirements in process planning systems. The purpose of the model is to create the context in which data requirements and data flow for numerically controlled machining process planning are defined. Furthermore, the model was developed as a unification of many previously developed process planning activity models.

Integrating through user interface: a flexible integration framework for third-party software

Abstract: The current trend of constructing new systems from collections of pre-existing third-party software and commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) products presents serious challenges to existing integration technology. We present a flexible integration framework which has general applicability for pre-existing third-party and COTS software (often highly interactive, with graphical user interface, and without source code access), supports users by allowing them to easily change the way software interacts (thus supporting system evolution and component reusability), and is easily programmable by end-users. Specifically we describe the Tool Integration Language (TIL) and the Tool Integration Server System (TISS) which provide flexible integration mechanisms for our framework and show how they can be used to integrate a set of existing applications and COTS.

Architectural design and tools to support the transparent access to hospital information systems, radiology information systems, and picture archiving and communication systems.

Abstract: The fragmentation of the electronic patient record among hospital information systems (HIS), radiology information systems (RIS), and picture archiving and communication systems (PACS) makes the viewing of the complete medical patient record inconvenient. The purpose of this report is to describe the system architecture, development tools, and implementation issues related to providing transparent access to HIS, RIS, and PACS information. A client-mediator-server architecture was implemented to facilitate the gathering and visualization of electronic medical records from these independent heterogeneous information systems. The architecture features intelligent data access agents, run-time determination of data access strategies, and an active patient cache. The development and management of the agents were facilitated by data integration CASE (computer-assisted software engineering) tools. HIS, RIS, and PACS data access and translation agents were successfully developed. All pathology, radiology, medical, laboratory, admissions, and radiology reports for a patient are available for review from a single integrated workstation interface. A data caching system provides fast access to active patient data. New network architectures are evolving that support the integration of heterogeneous software subsystems. Commercial tools are available to assist in the integration procedure.