Patent ID: 7231439
Filing Date: 2007-06-12
Classification: G06Q

Abstract:
1. A method in a computer for providing information about a current state that is modeled with multiple attributes, the method comprising: receiving from a first source an indication of a current ability to supply values for an indicated one of the state attributes of the modeled current state; after receiving an indication from a client for a value of the one attribute, supplying to the client a value for the one attribute received from the first source; after the supplying of the value received from the first source, receiving from a second source an indication of a current ability to supply values for the one attribute; after receiving an indication from the client for a value of the one attribute, supplying to the client a value for the one attribute based on values received for the one attribute from the first and second sources by, after the supplying of the value based on the values received for the one attribute from the first and second sources, receiving from the first source an indication of a temporary current inability of the first source to supply values for the one attribute; and after receiving an indication from the client for a value of the one attribute, determining that the first source is currently unable to supply values for the one attribute and that the second source is currently able to supply values for the one attribute, and in response supplying to the client a value for the one attribute received from the second source.