On concepts for autonomic communication elements

Autonomic Communication aims to reduce complexity and management costs of modern communication services and networks. Autonomic Communication Elements (ACEs) are seen as the basis of autonomic communication systems. A main research task of the CASCADAS project is the definition of a component model for ACEs and the release of an open-source toolkit to simplify creation of autonomic communication systems. This paper presents the current progress of the CASCADAS project in defining the ACE component model. A platform abstraction concept is presented along with the basic structures that will be researched within the project. A basic model for ACEs is introduced and exemplified in regard to its properties and requirements. The idea of a SEE ACE is introduced, which enables a homogeneous and self-similar hosting environment. The paper concludes with a discussion of the model and a presentation of open topics, giving insight into the current state of discussion.