Optimal access to large databases via networks

A CRADA with Stephens Engineering was undertaken in order to transfer knowledge and experience about access to information in large text databases, with results of queries and searches provided using the multimedia capabilities of the World Wide Web. Data access is optimized by the use of intelligent agents. Technology Logic Diagram documents published for the DOE facilities in Oak Ridge (K-25, X-10, Y-12) were chosen for this effort because of the large number of technologies identified, described, evaluated, and ranked for possible use in the environmental remediation of these facilities. Fast, convenient access to this information is difficult because of the volume and complexity of the data. WAIS software used to provide full-text, field-based search capability can also be used, through the development of an appropriate hierarchy of menus, to provide tabular summaries of technologies satisfying a wide range of criteria. The menu hierarchy can also be used to regenerate dynamically many of the tables that appeared in the original hardcopy publications, all from a single text database of the technology descriptions. Use of the Web environment permits linking many of the Technology Logic Diagram references to on-line versions of these publications, particularly the DOE Orders and related directives providing the legal requirements that were the basis for undertaking the Technology Logic Diagram studies in the first place