Last edited 2004/07/30
(Open Source Middleware for Open Systems in Europe)
The increasing importance of the software in a new context defined by constellations of computing devices linked together through a variety of networks (xDSL, Cable, GPRS, UMTS, Satellite, WiFi, Bluetooth, …) and reaching the final user proposes new challenges to the European software community and service providers.
Research is required in new models for co-operation in software development for the new context. Due to the highly fragmented market the potential of Europe will depend on its capability to collaborate efficiently.
The overall technical goal of the OSMOSE project is focused on the development, enhancement, and validation in defined test-beds of a comprehensive adaptable Open Source middleware to be hosted by the ObjectWeb Consortium (http://www.objectweb.org). ObjectWeb is an open international consortium, hosted by INRIA.
Major visible results from the project will take several forms.
The first set of results will consist in a hierarchical and extensible software component model, together with architectural frameworks and patterns for the construction of open, distributed component-based middleware.Overview of Osmose Frameworks.
The second set of results will include a set of integrated middleware platforms conforming to the following established standards: J2EE, OMG CCM, and OSGi. .
The third set of results will take the form of proof-of-concept demonstrators and tools that make use of the middleware technology to demonstrate its applicability in different application domains (Web services, home-environment, transport systems) and in the construction of effective software tools targeting different areas (e.g. configuration management and software deployment).
The OSMOSE middleware will be validated by means of dedicated test beds:
Telecom services: Middleware is at the heart of telecom services and network platforms. Mastering this middleware is crucial for telecom operators who need to efficiently control, maintain and manage the network infrastructure, build innovative network services, and make network services cooperate.
Home Gateway: Different devices are competing for becoming the interface between Internet, digital broadcasting services and residential space, in the so-called "Home Gateway". The strategic importance of this device in the value chain to reach the customer is pushing proprietary solutions to take a leading position.
Avionics: The complexity of avionics systems is rapidly increasing partly because of the traffic augmentation and because of the need of better safety. Complex interactions are required between the embedded components like the Flight Manager, the Anti-Collision Systems, the Data Bases and also with the outer elements like the Ground Control and the Air Traffic.
The members of the Consortium belong to 8 different European countries: Belgium, Czech Republic, France, Greece, Ireland, Netherlands, Spain and Switzerland. The Consortium is built around three sets of partners: large industrial companies (Bull, France Télécom, Philips, Telefonica, Telvent and Thales), SMEs (Bantry Technologies, VICORE and Whitestein Technologies), and academic partners (CharlesUniversity, EPFL, INRIA, INT, LIFL, LSR and Universidad Politécnica de Madrid).
For more information on this project, you may visit the following links: