A configuration model for dynamically reconfigurable distributed systems

Large distributed and real-time systems such as those found in computer integrated manufacturing and telecommunications usually require that operational and evolutionary changes on them can be performed dynamically, i.e., without stopping the entire systems. In this paper a model for dynamically reconfigurable distributed systems based on the Configuration Programming Approach is presented. This model includes a reconfiguration language with a powerful object selection mechanism, with which one is able to naturally express general pre-programmed reconfigurations in systems where such changes are to be supported together with user-initiated (unplanned) reconfigurations. Some issues related to the execution and coordination of dynamic reconfigurations in distributed applications are also discussed and the solutions adopted in the model are explained