Real Time Distributed Systems Lab

The primary research interest of Dr. Liu lies in the design of computer systems driven by a vertically integrated, holistic design strategy to implement the notion of "computing systems in context (CSIC)." CSIC aims to harmonize the two different worlds through one solution framework by taking into account the physical world factors in the early design phase of digital solutions or vice versa. The CSIC strategy represents a deep embedding tactic of computing solutions into challenging applications. As such, in addition to algorithm design, understanding of the real world constraints is a critical part of CSIC research.

The notion of CSIC originated from the observation that the interface and integration of the two worlds is inherently difficult and error prone. Cyberspace is a purely digital, highly ordered world, but the physical world is noisy, dynamic and often unpredictable. For instance, software does not have explicit knowledge of physical time; therefore, timing errors in software easily occur. On the other hand, application experts often focus on solving one particular physical issue with inadequate consideration given to high level coordination of computing strategies, e.g., divide and conquer problem solving, data representation, and computing resource management, etc. The broad range of topics being investigated by our lab can be generalized in three major categories.

• Design: networking, algorithms (discrete, applied image/signal processing), network security architectures
• Behavior Modeling: systems (congestion dynamics, performance, resource management) and living organs (retinal images, organic structures)
• HW & SW Implementations

Originality and practicality are the premier values of our work to achieve academic excellence and societal impacts. As the research experience of the Lab reaches a new level of breadth and depth, making societal impacts through advanced research becomes an important mission. Lab director Dr. Liu has invested years in developing field research experiences in user communities. Currently, he has extensive interactions with bio and health care communities, industry and government agencies. He develops strong ties with institutions in Mexico through seminars, hosting of Mexican visitors, and collaborative projects. He guided establishment of the Digital Imaging Diabetes Research Center in Mexico City and a series of clinical trials on diabetic retinopathy screening in the cities of Saltillo and Monterrey.