Posted on December 14, 2001 at 10:31 a.m.

BIRMINGHAM, AL — University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) computer science professor Barrett R. Bryant, Ph.D., has received a three-year, $1.6 million grant from the Office of Naval Research to develop technology that can mesh together software systems that run everything from office programs to missile control operations.

Bryant's main task will be basic research for the project, coming up with a theoretical basis for implementation of the "wrapper" technology. He is working with researchers from Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis and New Mexico State University on the project.

"Wrapper software allows different platforms to work together and in turn extends a software's functionality,” Bryant said. “Our job is to design the methodology that will enable different components to operate with a combined functionality. As a part of this project, we are trying to develop industry standardizations that one day could end up being implemented in the entire software design industry." Bryant said that if successful, the technology could be used in any computer system, to perform any task — from running simple office software to more complex operations such as missile defense systems.

"A lot of the U.S. missile command sites date back to before there was communication networks," Bryant said. "Even those that use software that is only a few years old are not able to connect with more modern technology. This won't modify the old systems, but will integrate all of the systems so they can work together. It’s like making parts for Mercedes-Benz automobiles work in BMWs and vice versa."