Abstract: A semantic attractor memory uses an evolving neural network architecture and learning rules derived from the study of human language acquisition and change to store, process and retrieve information. The architecture is based on multiple layer channels, with random connections from one layer to the next. One or more layers are devoted to processing input information. At least one processing layer is provided. One or more layers are devoted to processing outputs and feedback is provided from the outputs back to the processing layer or layers. Inputs from parallel channels are also provided to the one or more processing layers. With the exception of the feedback loop and central processing layers, the network is feedforward unless it is employed in a hybrid back-propagation configuration. The learning rules are based on non-stationary statistical processes, such as the Polya process or the processes leading to Bose-Einstein statistics, again derived from considerations of human language acquisition.

Abstract: A polishing apparatus comprises a polishing member for polishing a workpiece and a manipulator for manipulating the workpiece and having a base disposed at a coordinate origin of a base coordinate system. The polishing member and workpiece define therebetween a contact surface having a contact surface coordinate system relative to an initial coordinate system defined when the polishing member and the workpiece initially contact one another at the contact surface but before a force is exerted on the contact surface to polish the workpiece. A first control device successively updates a position and attitude of the contact surface coordinator system with respect to the initial coordinate system on the basis of a deviation between preselected values of force and moment acting on the workpiece and detected values of force and moment acting at the contact surface between the polishing member and the workpiece when a force is exerted on the contact surface to polish the workpiece.

Abstract: Apparatus for assisting management of services provided by a computer system includes an inferencing engine (30) for carrying out inferencing operations on a declarative model (24) of a service, using facts about the system stored in a fact base (32). A resident goal store (102) contains declarative definitions of goals which concern availability of services and which it is desirable for the system to continue to satisfy; these definitions are linked to associated facts in the fact base. The service model (24) includes definitions of events which can occur in the system and may affect availability of services, and definitions of actions which can be taken to modify the configuration of the system. When occurrence of an event defined in the service model is reported to the apparatus, the event definition is used to guide analysis of the event report and appropriate updating of the fact base. Goals which are linked to the updated facts are then examined to assess whether the goals are still satisfied.

Abstract: The present invention provides a project optimization software tool in which a single window in a graphical user interface serves as a tool for planning future actions, reviewing past actions, organizing meetings and launching executable software tools. A project pathway window supports: 1) the listing and viewing of sequences of pathway steps, which, if accomplished, lead towards a defined project goal, 2) the ability to link software tools to those pathway steps, and launch the software tools for execution, 3) the creation of meeting agendas, each of which may encompass several pathway steps, without demoting the included pathway steps, and 4) the marking of the status of pathway steps.