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Variable Client Intelligent Agent (VCIA)--D.N. American, Inc., 1000 Technology Drive, Suite 3220, Fairmont, WV  26554; 304-363-6757

Dr. Michael E. Fotta, Principal Investigator

Mr. Nitesh S. Patel, Business Official

DOE Grant No. DE-FG02-00ER82985

Amount:  $97,676

 

Currently, users are forced to choose between thick or thin data client architectures when working in a collaborative environment.  While each of these approaches can have advantages, in a collaborative environment both potentially inhibit an efficient work environment.  Problems resulted from a forced choice between a thick or thin client approach could be eliminated by an agent that can be configured in a thick mode where all data resides on the client, in a thin mode where all data resides in a central server based repository, or in a mirrored mode where data resides in a central repository and is mirrored to the clients.  This agent could be configured to work in any or all modes for a given client and work transparently to client applications.  This research will demonstrate the feasibility of an intelligent agent that would provide a variable range of thickness to a client operating in a client/server based network environment.  Planned activities for Phase I include research into an optimal design for VCIA and the building of a prototype mirrored client.

 

Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee:  A variable client intelligent agent will significantly enhance the use of COTS technologies in building collaborative environments.  Additionally, the data storage and processing capabilities of a client can be fully utilized on a client-by-client basis.