The architecture and implementation of the a distributed computer integrated environment

This paper argues that distributed object technology can profitably be put to use in the field of computer integrated construction, and describes its use within the COMMIT project. The COMMIT project aims to provide a computer integrated construction (CIC) environment that provides facilities such as versioning, notification, object rights and the representation of intent. To this end the COMMIT Information Management Model (CIMM) has been proposed, a brief description of which is given here. The paper describes an architecture for a distributed implementation of the CIMM. This architecture uses the CIMM as a bridge between services provided the CORBA distribution standard and core objects in a computer integrated construction environment. A detailed description of the CIMM’s implementation is given, in particular focusing on CIMM objects which reuse CORBA services through specialisation. Several techniques for integrating the CIMM with existing CIC systems and legacy applications are described. Finally, the user interface through which project participants interact with distributed components in the integrated environment is presented.