Coalition Shared Data (CSD) Server

Introduction

Monitoring in the civil and military environment is often carried out using separate systems. As a result, data cannot be shared and the possibilities for fulfilling the mission are limited. Services such as data/information collection and analysis are not carried out using the best system available, but the only one. Resource management can be improved. To solve this problem, a concept for distributing data according to needs has been developed and implemented. A Coalition Shared Data Server is used to store standardised data, allowing data to be delivered according to user requirements and network and security settings.

Solution

Tasking, sensor and evaluation systems store relevant metadata and products in general (standardised) formats on a shared data server that can be accessed by special read and write clients. The access mechanisms as well as the data model and interfaces of the database are based on standards (e.g. STANAG 4559). The interoperable architecture allows data analysis in the most appropriate system.

ISR administration and communication

Network systems can be configured according to capability and user requirements.

Main features and basic functions

Data storage and distribution according to STANAG 4559:

Storage of a variety of data types (e.g. videos, images, reports)
Query and subscription to CSD metadata; a subscription allows automatic periodic updating of a querying system when new data is available and of interest to the user
Synchronization of CSD metadata across multiple CSDs over a WAN according to bandwidth and task restrictions allows for adaptation to the environment
Scalability and adaptability to different network topologies

Advanced features and functions

Data model

Support of CSD data model extensions

Data control

Validation of metadata
Validation of related filesXML validation with schemas

Role-based user administration

Different access roles and security settings for each user
Using the Lightweight Directory Access Protocol (LDAP)

Backup

Hot standby functionality
Backup management

Logging

Supports logging of all system and safety-related data
Optional connection to a protocol server

Monitoring and management

Enables the administrator to visualise the machine status and track past events through graphical user interfaces
Supports the uncomplicated adjustment of system parameters and general configuration

Possible extensions

Integration of intelligence products (HUMINT, SIGINT, ELINT, MASINT)
Integration of further sensor types
ISR using services (SOA)
Queries are supported by semantic models
Use of data fusion services
Support of domain transitions (e.g. red/black) via a security gateway using CSD-XDT

Conversion of proprietary formats into standard-compliant formats

The Fraunhofer IOSB also provides tools that enable the CSD import of numerous data formats. For further information, please refer to the corresponding product flyers.

NSIF Creator for images (STANAG 4545)
i2exrep for reporting (STANAG 3377/3596)

Clients for data access

The following list provides an overview of the read and write clients commonly used for the CSD server. Further information can be found in the corresponding product flyers.

ISAAC.web Plus (web-based CSD client with map display)
ISAAC.SOA-Iib (library for system integration)
ISAAC.lib (library for system integration)