PROPOSAL FOR AN ENVIRONMENT FOR DISTRIBUTED SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT
Date
1985-04-01
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Abstract
The development of future generation computing systems involves
the integration of a range of technologies that have previously
been treated as quite separate. The Japanese ICOT group state they
are using the "latest research results in VLSI technology, as well
as technology of distributed processing, software engineering,
knowledge engineering, artificial intelligence, and pattern information
processing." This need for system integration is not just a theme of
fifth generation computing. It reflects a growing industrial emphasis on
the development of systems targeted at specific markets, yet taking full
advantage of advances in the diverse technologies that make up the
infrastructure of modern computing systems.
The Jade project in this Department has been an experiment in bringing
together specialists in the key areas of computing technology to focus
together on the development of a single application development support
environment for integrated systems. The three-year experiment has been
remarkably successful not only in the system developed but also in the
effective interaction between those involved. It has demonstrated that
researchers with many different backgrounds and objectives can work together
in the way necessary to integrate their diverse skills.
This new proposal builds on, and extends, the Jade system as developed in the
light of our experience to date. It aims to provide a practical application
development support environment for the design and implementation of
large distributed, concurrent or embedded systems. It aims to make this
available to industry as a set of tools that are readily transported across a
range of widely available systems. It aims to be applicable to system
developments ranging from VLSI design to integrated manufacturing systems.
It aims to incorporate our existing experience and skills in VLSI, machine
architecture, software engineering, simulation, graphics and human factors,
together with new developments in knowledge-based systems. The project is
ambitious, and unusual in its expectation that groups with such diverse
interest will work closely together. However, from our previous experience
we are confident that the aims are achievable and the resulting systems and
knowledge will be strategic importance for Canada.
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Keywords
Computer Science