CSR-EHS: Virtual Node Abstraction Layers for Designing Embedded Systems

该项目正在开发虚拟节点层(VNLayers)的概念，将其作为在动态网络(如移动无线网络)中实现嵌入式应用的基础。VN层是编程抽象层，由称为虚拟节点(VNS)的抽象机和客户机节点组成，客户机节点是物理计算节点的对应物，外加连接虚拟节点和客户机节点的本地通信服务。VN层对时序和故障的假设各不相同。可以使用复制状态机、基于领导者或基于仲裁的策略在物理网络上模拟VN层。虚拟节点层特别适合于实现控制和协调应用，包括移动机器人协调、智能公路管理和空中交通管理应用。在这里，VNS可以收集真实世界的信息，与其他VNS交换信息，为真实世界的实体计划活动，并传播计划。例如，一个被编程为红绿灯的VNS系统可以用于管理高速公路系统中的汽车活动。

This project is developing the notion of Virtual Node Layers (VNLayers) as a foundation for implementing embedded applications in dynamic networks, such as mobile wireless networks. VN Layers are programming abstraction layers consisting of abstract machines called Virtual Nodes (VNs), plus Client Nodes, which are counterparts of physical computing nodes, plus a local communication service connecting Virtual and Client Nodes. VN Layers vary in their assumptions about timing and failures. A VN Layer may be emulated over a physical network, using replicated-state-machine, leader-based, or quorum-based strategies. Such a layer can provide a simple, well-behaved platform for programming dynamic network applications, a task which is currently difficult.Virtual Node Layers appear to be especially well suited for implementing control and coordination applications, including mobile robot coordination, intelligent highway management, and air-traffic management applications. Here, VNs can collect real-world information, exchange information with other VNs, plan activities for real-world entities, and disseminate the plans. For example, a system of VNs programmed as traffic lights can be used to manage the activity of cars in a highway system.