The Ambicomp research project develops hardware modules and a transparently distributed virtual machine for embedded systems. The current hardware portfolio contains Bluetooth, Ethernet and Power-over-Ethernet modules, as well as various IO modules. An 8bit microcontroller on each module executes a virtual machine instance. An Eclipse-Plugin and a module emulator provide easy access to the virtual machine and the hardware features.
Ambicomp's main goal is to provide a single system image across a potentially large, distributed set of hardware modules. To this end, it employs latest research results from distributed computing: scalable source routing, globally accessible objects, and software transactional memory. As a result, Ambicomp provides an easy means for rapid prototyping and thereby supports small and medium sized companies to achieve a quick time to market.
Ambicomp does not address a particular target market. Promising prototypes are building automation, process automation, and ambient assisted living. The Ambicomp project is funded by the BMBF. Ambicomp partners are always interested in collaborations that can establish further use cases for this technology.
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