Patent ID: 6055535
Filing Date: 2000-04-25
Classification: G06F,Y10S

Abstract:
An information retrieving method for performing a prescribed search by using a plurality of retrieving apparatuses, comprising the steps of:dividing a database, according to weight values given to respective prescribed terms of the database, into hierarchical search ranges in which the respective retrieving apparatuses are to perform searches on the database;supplying a prescribed retrieval request as a first retrieval request including a first desired number of retrieval outputs to a first retrieving apparatus;determining whether a number of first retrieval result output by the first retrieving apparatus satisfies the first retrieval request; andsupplying a second retrieving apparatus with a second retrieval request including a second desired number of retrieval outputs equal to the first desired number of retrieval outputs minus the number of the first retrieval results, when it is determined that the first retrieval results do not satisfy the first retrieval request.