Embedded, Everywhere: A Research Agenda for Networked Systems of Embedded Computers

Advances in the miniaturization and networking of microprocessors promise a day when networked computers are embedded throughout the everyday world. However, our current understanding of what such systems would be like is insufficient to bring the promise to reality. Embedded, Everywhere explores the potential of networked systems of embedded computers and the research challenges arising from embedding computation and communications technology into a wide variety of applications?from precision agriculture to automotive telematics to defense systems. It describes how these emerging networks operate under unique constraints not present in more traditional distributed systems, such as the Internet. It articulates how these networks will have to be dynamically adaptive and self-configuring, and how new models for approaching programming and computation are necessary. Issues relating to trustworthiness, security, safety, reliability, usability, and privacy are examined in light of the ubiquitous nature of these systems. A comprehensive, systems-oriented research agenda is presented, along with recommendations to major federal funding agencies. Table of Contents Front Matter Executive Summary 1. Introduction and Overview 2. Enabling Technologies 3. Self-Configuration and Adaptive Coordination 4. Building Trustworthy Networked Systems of Embedded Computers 5. Models of Computation 6. Conclusions and Recommendations: An Agenda for Research Appendix A: Biographies of Committee Members Appendix B: Briefers at Plenary Meetings