RESTful-Based Bi-level Distribution Framework for Context-Based Mobile Web Service Provision

Abstract

Complex mobile Web services can be provided from the mobile host in a light weight manner by either partial distributing the execution tasks of the server to a stationary device or completely migrate the execution tasks of the service logic to another mobile host. Our approach goes beyond that and allows running more complex services through applying a bi-level distribution of the execution tasks and the service logic to other mobiles. The technology used is based on REST architectural style. An Extended Mobile Host Complex Web service Framework (EMHCF) for providing complex context-based Web services is defined and developed. The set of mechanisms, which are deployed in the EMHCF, depends on the REST characteristics to facilitate service distribution. Verifying the safety properties of the system is carried out analytically based on formal methods. This is complemented with an empirical validation of the correct behavior of the system through proof-of-concept prototype implementation. The running experimental tests examine the best suitable case scenario for partial distribution.