For the whole decision click here: o31700
Summary
The invention relates to computer systems which handle conflicting demands for resources. The main example is a system for booking meeting rooms which compares conflicting bookings and gives priority to whichever is found to be the more important. The application also covers systems which queue events for a computer, and which manage conflicting entries in databases. In each case priority is given to the more important event or entry, the degree of importance being determined in relation to human factors such as the seniority of the person making the demand and how long the person has been waiting. The systems were considered to be the mere automation by conventional computer means of rules for handling conflicting priorities. The application was refused on the ground that it comprised excluded matter contrary to section 1(2); the claims relating to methods for doing business and methods for performing mental acts.