Using ApacheDS front-end with a custom backend

[Matt Doran]

Hi there,

I'm new to Apache DS, but I've recently used your Directory Studio and 
thought it was amazing.  Well done!

I've got a pretty in depth developer type question, so if this is 
something better asked on another list, please let me know.

I'm a developer, and I've got to emulate some basic functionality of an 
LDAP server (e.g. user authentication and some very limited/basic 
searching), but instead of using a traditional LDAP data store, provide 
the backend data myself.  In reality the backend data will be partially 
constructed from an existing RDBMS user database, and a mix of other 
more dynamic elements (like delegating some elements of authentication 
to another source - e.g. another LDAP server or AD).

Does Apache DS have an architecture that might allow me to take the 
network facing / protocol handling layer and plugin my own 
implementation for a basic data store?    If so, does anyone have any 
tips/example/etc for me to get started?   I had a look at the documents 
and the project seems to be made up of many submodules/projects.   So 
I'm hopeful my idea is achievable .... but would like your tips on where 
to begin.

Thanks in advance,
Matt