Abstract: A method, apparatus and computer program product selectively delete records from a cache in a manner that not only takes into account usage of the record, but also the cost associated with the generation of the record. In regards to a method, a cost associated with generation of a record maintained in a cache is determined. The cost may be defined in terms of the time consumed to generate the record. The method also determines usage of the record. At least one of the cost or the usage may be determined on a relative basis with respect to the cost or the usage, respectively, of other records maintained in the cache. Further, the method determines whether the record should be deleted from the cache based upon the cost and the usage of the record. Based on this determination, the record may be selectively deleted from or retained within the cache.

Abstract: Judgement is made to determine whether or not an access request from a host computer is a write request and whether or not the contents of the write request are log information indicating contents of database processing executed in a buffer by the host computer. When the contents of the write request are the log information, position information indicated in the log information is converted into physical position information in a primary storage system using a conversion table indicating a correspondence between logical position information recognized by the host computer and physical position information in the primary storage system. According to the contents of the log information, data is updated in a database area of the primary storage system represented by the physical position information converted using the conversion table. The access request is sent to a secondary storage system.

Abstract: Disclosed is a system for performing online data queries. The system for performing online data queries is a distributed computer system with a plurality of server nodes each fully redundant and capable of processing a user query request. Each server node includes a data query cache and other caches that may be used in performing data queries. The data query, as well as request allocation, is performed in accordance with an adaptive partitioning technique with a bias towards an initial partitioning scheme. Generic objects are created and used to represent business listings upon which the user may perform queries. Various data processing and integration techniques are included which enhance data queries. An update technique is used for synchronizing data updates as needed in updating the plurality of server nodes. A multi-media data transfer technique is used to transfer non-text or multi-media data between various components of the online query tool.

Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for coordinating the operation of multiple devices actuated by foot pedal operated switches. A housing has a lid movably mounted thereto and defines a recess therewithin. A foot pedal assembly has a pedal member which is downwardly movable and which is adapted to be depressed by downward pressure exerted by the foot of a user. The foot pedal assembly has a first switch operatively associated therewith which is actuated by a downward movement of the pedal member. The foot pedal assembly is disposed within the recess defined within the housing such that a downward movement of the lid displaces the pedal member of the foot pedal assembly to actuate the first switch. A second switch is disposed such that the downward movement of the lid of the housing also actuates the second switch. Downward movement of the lid actuates the first and second switches together to concurrently change the states of first and second devices operatively associated with the first and second switches.

Abstract: A method and system periodically copies information from a computer file to a database to preserve non-current information from the file. As information from the file is overwritten by new information, the old information is preserved in the database, allowing non-current information to be used without reprogramming the computer programs or portions of the computer program that read or write the file. If the file is arranged into one or more sections, and new information stored in a section of the file is assigned an identifier higher than the other information in the section, the amount of time required to locate new information in the file can be reduced. Comparing the highest identifier in the section with the highest identifier in the database for that section can identify sections of the file that have received no new information since the last update made to the database.

Abstract: A multiposition switch, particularly suited for use as a motor speed controller, includes pairs of fixed contacts disposed in two parallel rows, and an arcuately shaped elongated movable contact. The movable contact rocks across successive pairs of the fixed contacts to make contact between a given pair of fixed contacts before contact is broken between a preceding pair. The movable contact is freely supported and rocked in response to forces exerted thereon by first and second rollers. The first roller is supported on a lever which is pivotable about a movable point so that as the lever is moved from an off position the first roller applies a force to the movable contact proximate a second end thereof. The second roller is supported on a pivotable member and applies a force to the movable contact proximate the first end thereof tending to return the contact to the off position.

Abstract: Illumination control apparatus for supplementing light from solar radiation with light from an artificial light source to compensate for periods of insufficient levels of solar light to maintain a desired illumination level within an interior space comprising an artificial light source connected to an electrical power source with switch means for selectively energizing said light source, actuator means for controlling the on-off operation of the switch means, a light sensor connected to the actuator means for controlling the actuator means in response to the illumination level of the interior space, and a limit switch carried adjacent the actuator for limiting the movement of the actuator within a predetermined range so as to prevent further movement thereof during detection of erroneous illumination conditions.