A Framework for Robust Engineering of Large-Scale Distributed Real-Time Systems

We propose to define a software framework that will support semi to fully automatic integration of heterogeneous software design and performance analysis tools based on our accepted model interoperability approach. This framework will enable the automated translation of software designs from common design notations (such as UML) into performance models for evaluation of properties such as: hardware sizing, timing analysis, responsiveness, scalability, and others. It will support the addition of performance analysis tools in a plug and play style, thus making the environment expandable as new design methods and analysis techniques are desired. Phase I will focus on defining an architecture for this framework and demonstrating its feasibility. A prototype framework, including a sample set of design and analysis tools will be developed in Phase II and its utility will be demonstrated using a DoD case study. This prototype will be the foundation for a Phase III commercial product that would be marketed to both the DoD and commercial clients. BENEFIT: By automating the translation of software designs to performance models, this framework will eliminate the need for laborious and error-prone manual translation. This means that performance defects can be detected and corrected early in the development process where they are easier and less costly to repair. Automated translation of designs to performance models will also make it possible to keep the performance models and design synchronized as the software evolves. There are several potential markets for this framework: · The framework would provide performance analysts with the ability to quickly evaluate the performance impact of software design decisions. · Software architects could use automated performance analysis to provide decision support during the design phase of a project. · Those who oversee contract or outsourced software development (both DoD and commercial) could use the automated analysis to obtain real time feedback on the status of the products performance There is additional commercial potential in developing and marketing tools to populate the framework. Our customer base of performance specialists using the SPE-ED tool is already interested in interfacing additional tools to streamline their tasks. New, special-purpose tools could be developed to meet those needs. In addition, translators to integrate new tools into the framework could be marketed.