A Component-Based Software Framework for Large Scale Systems

We propose to continue the development of an innovative component-basedsoftware framework we have designed for the development and support oflarge-scale software and hardware/software systems. In Phase I, now nearing completion, we have demonstrated that the proposed framework is feasible and that it addresses the Missile Defense Agency's recognized needs. As part of that effort, we haveupdated our preliminary requirements analysis, revised the design to reflect the updated requirements, and begun work on the actual implementation. In Phase II we would complete the implementation of the core functionality and software infrastructure,resulting in a working prototype that would demonstrate the most important, innovative, and technically challenging elements of the proposed design. That prototype would be more than just a proof-of-concept; it would provide enough functionality to beimmediately useful in many real world applications. In particular, the prototype developed in Phase II would replace the current version of tempus, a software framework currently being used in support of MDA's Airborne Laser Program for conceptexploration, performance prediction, and verification and validation of subsystems. Other tempus users include the Boeing Corporation, Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, Northrop-Grumman, Mission Research Corporation, New Mexico State University,and the University of Rochester. The additional functionality we propose to develop in Phase II, Phase III, and beyond would greatly increase the power of the tool, greatly extending its domain of application, and thus greatly increasing its value to themilitary and to commercial users.