초록 ▼

A complex computational task is processed by a plurality of computers coupled to a network. A plurality of different computers (64-74) are each assigned a different portion of a distributed processing task by a problem dispatcher (88). Each computer determines if a local operator has not used a keyb

A complex computational task is processed by a plurality of computers coupled to a network. A plurality of different computers (64-74) are each assigned a different portion of a distributed processing task by a problem dispatcher (88). Each computer determines if a local operator has not used a keyboard (43) or a mouse (40) for a predefined period of time. If not, a screen saving program is initiated and the computer begins monitoring the network to determine if a request for participation in a distributed processing task has been transmitted. Upon receiving such a request, the screen saver program responds, indicating that the computer is available to participate in the task. Each computer also sends characteristics to the problem dispatcher, which selects assistant computers to participate in the task. The problem dispatcher assigns specific portions of the task to each of the assistant computers until the task is completed. If a local operator interrupts, the portion of the task being processed by that computer is assigned to a different assistant computer. In this manner, the complex computational task is processed relatively quickly using only those computers that are available and have the appropriate capabilities.

대표청구항 ▼

[ The invention in which an exclusive right is claimed is defined by the following:] [1.] A process for executing a complex computational task on a network having a plurality of independent interconnected workstations, each workstation including a computer processing unit and a user input device, th

[ The invention in which an exclusive right is claimed is defined by the following:] [1.] A process for executing a complex computational task on a network having a plurality of independent interconnected workstations, each workstation including a computer processing unit and a user input device, the process comprising the steps of:(i) identifying available workstations connected to a dispatching work station having a complex computational task to perform;(ii) requesting computational characteristics and a local user profile from the identified workstations;(iii) selecting, in response to the respective computational characteristics and local user profiles, at least one of the identified workstations for assisting in execution of the task to achieve a predetermined minimal efficiency;(iv) dividing the task, in accordance with the respective computational characteristics and local user profiles, into portions for execution on the at least one selected workstation and the dispatching workstation;(v) distributing the portions among the at least one selected workstation and the dispatching workstation; and(vi) executing the distributed portions at the irrespective at least one selected workstation and the dispatching workstation to complete the task.