Connector framework

[pascal.llorens@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx]

To Osmose partners, to ObjectWeb partners,

We wish to open the discussion on the connector framework working group. We
would expect to channel the thoughts on that subject around the following
topics, the point here is to define the infrastructure element
responsibilities.

1. The component connector framework is to provide the capability to
exchange objects/data between application software components under certain
conditions that are warranted by the layers that are logically below
(middleware, networks)
2. Component connection life cycle
The component life cycle could be established as follow:
- Connection establishment, corresponding to a contract negotiation and
component identification following a required QoS
- Connection use taken into account flow management through by selecting
appropriate network transport protocol
- Connection monitoring to insure the QoS, availability, overload,...
- Connection termination

Those points should be addressed in the global framework of ObjectWeb
platforms (ie Jonas, openCCM,...) and must take into account the containers
technology.
The connector framework works are in relation with the mobility framework
ones, indeed the component mobility could be successful with service
limitation depending on connection capabilities, the component service level
could have to be adapted according to the established connection. The
component interconnection should propose some solution to address that
issue.
Could everybody interested in that topics, give their view and analysis. In
a second step, it is expected to gather all requirements that should (must)
be addressed.

If that subject has been already addressed, details of the conducted works
are welcomed. All those who are interested in participating in this working
group are invited to subscribe to the corresponding mailing list:
http://www.objectweb.org/wws/info/connector and finally introduce in a few
words their interest, view and possible participation.

Since this working group is also part of OSMOSE project, it is expected to
build a work plan and schedule ASAP, could everybody that intend to
participate, indicate what could be the expected manpower available for the
2 coming years.

Roughly, the process to conduct our works could be the following, again any
remark and consolidation is welcomed:

- Find an agreement on subjects to be addressed in the Connector framework
(expected by mid of October)
- Find interaction with other ObjectWeb frameworks (expected by mid of
October)
- Build the list of system requirements for the connector framework
(expected by end of November)
- ObjectWeb platforms integration requirements
- Modelling of requirements (could be partly supported in UML)
- Design (could be in UML)
- Implementation
- Integration

Best regards
Pascal Llorens