Service discovery in heterogeneous wireless networks

In this paper we describe a possible solution to the problem of service discovery in heterogeneous wireless networks. This solution involves introduction of a network independent service discovery layer, with as main goal the improved robustness of applications running on top of it. A possible implementation, based on special usage of the JINI middleware[1] offering spontaneous service interaction for distributed computing, is proposed. It has been realized in the Scalable Personal Area Services platform (SPEARS) aimed at demonstration of the ad-hoc facilitation of the communication between and co-ordination of, emergency relief personnel (professionals as well as volunteers) in disaster areas and under extreme conditions.