Showing papers on "System integration published in 1997"

Technology Integration: Making Critical Choices in a Dynamic World

Abstract: The concept of technology integration studying technology integration the drivers of project performance problem-solving foundations managing technological change building technology integration capability integrating technology and market streams rethinking R&D in a chaotic world appendices - technical analysis of processor modules, regression analysis.

Coordination mechanisms for multi-agent manufacturing systems: applications to integrated manufacturing scheduling

Abstract: The advent of information technology (IT) has made today's manufacturing systems increasingly distributed. Typically such a system consists of a complex array of computer-based decision units, controllers and databases. Rather than dealing with each component individually, it is necessary to have a new paradigm for management of manufacturing systems, so that all the components and their operations can be managed in an integrated fashion. The multi-agent framework presented in this paper is such a paradigm for achieving system integration. The authors specifically emphasize the coordination mechanisms needed for ensuring the orderly operations and concerted decision making among the components-i.e., agents-of the manufacturing systems. The application of the framework to a printed circuit board manufacturing system and the performance results are also described.

Application-independent generator to generate a database transaction manager in heterogeneous information systems

Abstract: A heterogeneous information system such as a digital library often uses a database manager together with other data resource manager(s), such as an object server or a video server, to manage digital content. Such a system often needs to maintain an application-specific database and/or to handle application-specific operational requirements. To facilitate system integration and application development, an application-independent reusable product is created which generates a custom system component or utility, such as a loader, according to a specification provided by a system integrator or an application developer.

A software architecture for integrated service robot development

Abstract: This paper presents a computational architecture that addresses the grand challenge problem of system integration. Robotics research has made many advances in sensory processing, control and planning, but few efforts focus on the problem of dynamically integrating the "best available" approaches into a single architecture to support development of integrated systems. The role of architecture is discussed, and a novel approach to intelligent robotic system architecture is presented. This new approach has resulted from the maturation of object-based software technology.

Building knowledge of health care as a system.

Abstract: A system is a functionally related group of interacting, interrelated, or interdependent elements forming a complex whole with a common aim. This article presents a method--a 10-step exercise--for building knowledge of the elements of an interdependent system of health care. Those who seek to improve the work of a system can use this exercise for designing and relating new improvement efforts to the general work of the organization.

Java for parallel computing and as a general language for scientific and engineering simulation and modeling

Abstract: We discuss the role of Java and Web technologies for general simulation. We classify the classes of concurrency typical in problems and analyze separately the role of Java in user interfaces, coarse grain software integration, and detailed computational kernels. We conclude that Java could become a major language for computational science, as it potentially o ers good performance, excellent user interfaces, and the advantages of object-oriented structure.

Knowledge acquisition, modelling and inference through the World Wide Web

Abstract: The development of knowledge-based systems involves the management of a diversity of knowledge sources, computing resources and system users, often distributed geographically. The knowledge acquisition, modelling and representation communities have developed a wide range of tools relevant to the development and management of large-scale knowledge-based systems, but the majority of these tools run on individual workstations and use specialist data formats making system integration and knowledge interchange very problematic. However, widespread access to the Internet has led to a new era of distributed client?server computing. In particular, the introduction of support forformson World Wide Web in late 1993 has provided an easily programmable, cross-platform graphic-user interface that has become widely used in innovative interactive systems. This article reports on the development of open architecture knowledge management tools operating through the web to support knowledge acquisition, representation and inference through semantic networks and repertory grids.

Automated pavement distress data collection and analysis: a 3-D approach

Abstract: This paper describes a 3-D automated pavement distress data collection and analysis system based on NRC's Biris sensor technology. The paper introduces the problem to be solved, the selected design criteria, and the adopted solution to monitor the quality of road surfaces. The system geometry for the acquisition of the three-dimensional coordinates of pavement surface distresses is presented. Multiple feature extraction and system integration concepts are given with emphasis placed on the real-time processing of the raw data by a parallel array of processors. Advantages and disadvantages of this technology are discussed. System performances and experimental results are provided.

Process measures for predicting software quality

Abstract: Software reliability is essential for tactical military systems, such as the Joint Surveillance Target Attack Radar System (JSTARS). It is an embedded, real-time military application, which performs real-time detection, location, classification and tracking of moving and fixed objects on the ground. A software quality model can make timely predictions of reliability indicators. These enable one to improve software development processes by targeting reliability improvement techniques more effectively and efficiently. This paper presents a case study of a large subsystem of JSTARS to improve integration and testing. The dependent variable of a logistic regression model was the class of a module: either fault-prone or not. Measures of the process history of each module were the independent variables. The case study supports our hypothesis that the likelihood of discovering additional faults during integration and testing can be usefully modeled as a function of the module history prior to integration. This history is readily available by combining data from the project's configuration management system and problem-reporting system.

Hierarchical modeling and robust synthesis for the preliminary design of large scale complex systems

Abstract: Large-scale complex systems are characterized by multiple interacting subsystems and the analysis of multiple disciplines. The design and development of such systems inevitably requires the resolution of multiple conflicting objectives. The size of complex systems, however, prohibits the development of comprehensive system models, and thus these systems must be partitioned into their constituent parts. Because simultaneous solution of individual subsystem models is often not manageable iteration is inevitable and often excessive. In this dissertation these issues are addressed through the development of a method for hierarchical robust preliminary design exploration to facilitate concurrent system and subsystem design exploration, for the concurrent generation of robust system and subsystem specifications for the preliminary design of multi-level, multi-objective, large-scale complex systems. This method is developed through the integration and expansion of current design techniques: Hierarchical partitioning and modeling techniques for partitioning large-scale complex systems into more tractable parts, and allowing integration of subproblems for system synthesis; Statistical experimentation and approximation techniques for increasing both the efficiency and the comprehensiveness of preliminary design exploration; and Noise modeling techniques for implementing robust preliminary design when approximate models are employed. Hierarchical partitioning and modeling techniques including intermediate responses, linking variables, and compatibility constraints are incorporated within a hierarchical compromise decision support problem formulation for synthesizing subproblem solutions for a partitioned system. Experimentation and approximation techniques are employed for concurrent investigations and modeling of partitioned subproblems. A modified composite experiment is introduced for fitting better predictive models across the ranges of the factors, and an approach for constructing partitioned response surfaces is developed to reduce the computational expense of experimentation for fitting models in a large number of factors. Noise modeling techniques are compared and recommendations are offered for the implementation of robust design when approximate models are sought. These techniques, approaches, and recommendations are incorporated within the method developed for hierarchical robust preliminary design exploration. This method as well as the associated approaches are illustrated through their application to the preliminary design of a commercial turbofan turbine propulsion system. The case study is developed in collaboration with Allison Engine Company, Rolls Royce Aerospace, and is based on the Allison AE3007 existing engine designed for midsize commercial, regional business jets. For this case study, the turbofan system-level problem is partitioned into engine cycle design and configuration design and a compressor modules integrated for more detailed subsystem-level design exploration, improving system evaluation. The fan and low pressure turbine subsystems are also modeled, but in less detail. Given the defined partitioning, these subproblems are investigated independently and concurrently, and response surface models are constructed to approximate the responses of each. These response models are then incorporated within a commercial turbofan hierarchical compromise decision support problem formulation. Five design scenarios are investigated, and robust solutions are identified. The method and solutions identified are verified by comparison with the AE3007 engine. The solutions obtained are similar to the AE3007 cycle and configuration, but are better with respect to many of the requirements.

Engineering systems integration for civil infrastructure projects

Abstract: Public infrastructure owners continue to explore a range of project delivery and financing strategies to meet current and future needs, including Design-Bid-Build, Design-Build, turnkey, Design-Build-Operate, Build-Operate-Transfer, and Build-Own-Operate-Transfer. In the midst of these activities, a new engineering discipline is emerging. This new discipline, Engineering Systems Integration, treats project delivery and finance methods as variables to be managed in the infrastructure development process, rather than as constants with respect to which engineers and planners have no input or control. The engineering systems integrator is engaged in the optimization of the project delivery and finance configuration at both project and system levels. Four years of research examined more than 3,000 infrastructure projects in the United States and Hong Kong and has produced an operational framework to model the robust environment in which Engineering Systems Integration occurs. The paper presents this framework, describes how it is being incorporated into engineering curricula at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and applies the framework to a major multimodal transportation facility at an Environmental Protection Agency Superfund site north of Boston, Massachusetts.

Integrated medical analysis system

Abstract: This paper describes the Integrated Medical Analysis System. This evolving system consists of an integrated suite of models and tools providing quantitative and dynamic analysis from physiological tinction models, clinical care patient input, medical device data, and Northrop Grumman medical products. The System is being developed for requirements definition, testing, validation, control theory, and real-time diagnostic insights. Unique system integration of components is achieved. The current prototype emphasizes cardiovascular and pulmonary physiological functions and integration of patient device data. An overview of the project and preliminary findings are introduced.

Medical image informatics infrastructure design and applications

Abstract: Picture archiving and communication systems (PACS) is a system integration of multimodality images and health information systems designed for improving the operation of a radiology department. As it evolves, PACS becomes a hospital image document management system with a voluminous image and related data file repository. A medical image informatics infrastructure can be designed to take advantage of existing data, providing PACS with add-on value for health care service, research, and education. A medical image informatics infrastructure (Mill) consists of the following components: medical images and associated data (including PACS database), image processing, data/knowledge base management, visualization, graphic user interface, communication networking, and application oriented software. This paper describes these components and their logical connection, and illustrates some applications based on the concept of the Mill.

Cross-platform software reuse by functional integration approach

Abstract: Software integration is an important and useful approach to software reuse. Most of software integration approaches use data-integration paradigm, i.e., common data format and (or) source code are required for integration. The author proposes a functional integration approach which integrates software by functionalities. No common data format or source codes of the integrated software is required in the approach. Techniques used in the paper can be applied to integrate softwares under DOS, Windows, or even CORBA (Common Object Request Broker Architecture) based distributed environments. To make the system user friendly, the author adopts the concept of software IC and define a specification language to describe relationship among integrated software ICs. Based on this approach, a real graphical parking lot management system which integrated AutoCAD and dBase by their functionalities has been implemented successfully and demonstrated.

HEV control strategy: implications of performance criteria, system configuration and design, and component selection

Abstract: Maximizing the potential benefits of hybrid-electric vehicles (HEVs) depends on comprehensive understanding of performance, drive system, and vehicle-design parameters. The paper explores parametric vehicle design, integration, and drive system-control relationships that appear significant, with the intention of stimulating thoughtful system integration and control-strategy development. Design criteria are introduced as the basis for vehicle parameters influencing drive system configuration and control. Issues affecting drive system optimization and control are identified in relation to maximization of fuel economy, minimization of emissions, peak and continuous performance, and stored energy and performance consistency.

The Application of Object-Oriented Analysis to Agent-Based Systems.

Abstract: Agents are important software abstractions for dist ribu ed problem solving and autonomous, proactive behavior. They have been used in many application s, i cluding manufacturing, enterprise integration , network management, and advanced user interfaces fo r worldwide web applications. As agent systems become more prevalent, the need arises for software engineering methodologies. The relationships between agents and objects, and the role of object oriented analysis in multiagent system development are discussed here. The approach is illustrated wi th a case study from discrete parts manufacturing. 1.0 INTRODUCTION Numerous examples can be found of applications of a gent based systems to enterprise integration ; concurrent engineering ; and manufacturing . Many agent based systems have also been develope d f r network management , scheduling, and advanced user interfaces . These systems exhibit significant advances in distributed problem solving and pro-act ive behavior. For many areas, especially humancomputerinteraction (HCI), worldwideweb appli cations, and business process management , agents that pro-actively carry out autonomous behav ior and cooperate with each other through negotiation represent the next important software a bstr ction or metaphor . As agent oriented systems become more widely u sed and integrated to mainstream applications, software engineering becomes an important considera t on. To date, most agent based systems have been developed within the artificial intelligence c ommunity, and the need for development methodologies has become well known. Some initial work in software engineering of agent based systems has been completed, but most of it has conc entrated on software architecture and omitted specification entirely 18, . Previous work 15 indicated that an agent could be identified as a p rocess or a data store in a data flow diagram with real time ex tensions. However, agent behavior is actually quit e different from a data flow process. The need to co nsider work flow and not just data flow 23 for agents has been discussed, as agents cooperate and coordin ate their activities much as individuals do in organizations or enterprises. As agents must be designed and implemented in software, a workflow representation alone can not be used. In this paper, existing methodologies fo r object oriented modelling and analysis are extend ed to encompass agent oriented systems. In particula r, the use case driven object oriented software engineering (OOSE) approach is utilized, with exten sio s for constraint technologies. The result is a methodology for specifying and analysing agent base d systems.

Integration of fieldbus systems into distributed object-oriented systems

Abstract: We describe an approach for integrating fieldbus systems into distributed object oriented systems. Integration of fieldbus systems into distributed object oriented systems means to treat the first one as an integral part of the last one. This integration has a methodological and a technical viewpoint. The first is related to the integration of models describing the application and its management, while the latter is related to the realisation of an interface in software (and hardware) between two worlds of information processing. The paper describes the last aspect. The integration of fieldbus systems into distributed systems gains importance for the realisation of heterogeneous information processing systems in companies. Using this approach, online data from and about a process is available in various departments of the company and can be used for decision making. First we explain the need and possibility for this integration, and the technologies and models used, are described. Next, an application example is described. Finally, some conclusions and areas of necessary further research work are shown.

Configuration management — keeping it all together

Abstract: Any project, programme or organisation, working in any environment with released information, managing its change, maintaining traceability, and ensuring results always meet expectations, needs configuration management. Software projects introduce additional complexities — multiple developers working on the same item at the same time, the need for compatibility with other products and systems, targeting releases for multiple platforms, and supporting multiple versions (for example development and released versions). This paper describes the configuration management processes that support and manage products through their entire life cycle as they change and evolve.

Systems integration ‐ coping with legacy systems

Abstract: Today systems integration has become a strategic issue of major concern. The aim is to facilitate sharing and dissemination of information across functional boundaries within the manufacturing enterprise. However, apart from the complexities involved in integrating closely related mission‐critical “islands of computerization”, which are predominantly domain specific, many organizations are finding it increasingly difficult to maintain, modify and augment them in this rapidly changing world. Without the provision for a higher degree of evolution and migration capability, these systems are in constant danger of being obsolete. Reports on the methodology conceived and the software toolset which has been developed by the author to facilitate the adaptability of integrated manufacturing systems in response to changing needs.

Speech technology integration and research platform: a system study.

Abstract: We present a generic speech technology integration platform for application development and research across different domains. The goal of the design is two-fold: On the application development side, the system provides an intuitive developer’s interface defined by a high level application definition language and a set of convenient speech application building tools. It allows a novice developer to rapidly deploy and modify a spoken language dialogue application. On the system research and development side, the system uses a thin, ‘broker’ layer to separate the system application programming interface from the service provider interface. It makes the system easy to incorporate new technologies and new functional components. We also use a domain independent acoustic model set to cover US English phones for general speech applications. The system grammar and lexicon engine creates grammars and lexicon dictionaries on the fly to enable a practically unrestricted vocabulary for many recognition and synthesis applications.

Requirements for Enterprise Model Execution and Integration Services

Abstract: Business drivers for manufacturing industry are generating new demands for flexible, extended, inter-operating information processes, and in turn for Information and Communication Technology to support them. Explicit modelling and other techniques may provide a solution, but themselves place requirements on the infrastructure that is needed to integrate model components.

Using CORBA to integrate manufacturing cells to a virtual enterprise

Abstract: It is critical in today's enterprises that manufacturing facilities are not isolated from design, planning, and other business activities and that information flows easily and bidirectionally between these activities. It is also important and cost-effective that COTS software, databases, and corporate legacy codes are well integrated in the information architecture. Further, much of the information generated during manufacturing must be dynamically accessible to engineering and business operations both in a restricted corporate intranet and on the internet. The software integration strategy in the Sandia Agile Manufacturing Testbed supports these enterprise requirements. We are developing a CORBA-based distributed object software system for manufacturing. Each physical machining device is a CORBA object and exports a common IDL interface to allow for rapid and dynamic insertion, deletion, and upgrading within the manufacturing cell. Cell management CORBA components access manufacturing devices without knowledge of any device-specific implementation. To support information flow from design to planning data is accessible to machinists on the shop floor. CORBA allows manufacturing components to be easily accessible to the enterprise. Dynamic clients can be created using web browsers and portable Java GUI's. A CORBA-OLE adapter allows integration to PC desktop applications. Other commercial software can access CORBA network objects in the information architecture through vendor API's.© (1997) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.