Product configuration method and device, electronic equipment and computer program product

Abstract

The invention relates to the field of product configuration, and particularly provides a product configuration method and device, electronic equipment and a computer program product. The method comprises the following steps: creating a general configuration model of a product, wherein the general configuration model comprises general configuration parameters and a preset configuration rule; based on the customized configuration requirement, a target configuration model is determined, and configuration parameters in the target configuration model meet the customized configuration requirement and are one or more of universal configuration parameters; and checking whether configuration parameters in the target configuration model meet a preset configuration rule or not, and if yes, taking the target configuration model as a customized configuration model of the product. By creating the universal configuration model, full coverage of the universal configuration parameters required by a customer is realized, so that the universal configuration parameters can be reused subsequently according to customization requirements, and the customization configuration model can be generated only through configuration parameter clipping and preset configuration rule verification. Cost waste caused by redevelopment is avoided, configuration efficiency is improved, and the method can be expanded to more scenes.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the field of product configuration, and in particular to a product configuration method, device, electronic device, and computer program product. Background Art

[0002] Existing product configuration models have certain limitations. Because each customer's configuration requirements vary, existing product configuration models must be customized for each customer. Product configuration models cannot be reused, and each configuration, update, or maintenance requires a lot of manpower and time. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In view of the above problems, the present application is proposed. The embodiments of the present application provide a product configuration method, device, electronic device and computer program product.

[0004] According to one aspect of the present application, a product configuration method is provided, the method comprising: creating a general configuration model for a product, wherein the general configuration model includes general configuration parameters and preset configuration rules; determining a target configuration model based on customized configuration requirements, wherein the configuration parameters in the target configuration model meet the customized configuration requirements and are one or more of the general configuration parameters; and verifying whether the preset configuration rules are met between the configuration parameters in the target configuration model, and if so, using the target configuration model as the customized configuration model for the product.

[0005] In addition, according to a product configuration method of one aspect of the present application, the general configuration parameters include hardware and / or software related to the product, and at least one specification corresponding to each hardware and / or software; the preset configuration rules include constraints between a specification of each hardware or software and other specifications of other hardware or software.

[0006] In addition, according to a product configuration method in one aspect of the present application, the constraint conditions include one or more of the following: compatibility, performance requirements, and cost constraints.

[0007] In addition, according to a product configuration method in one aspect of the present application, the method also includes: if the configuration parameters in the target configuration model do not satisfy the preset configuration rules, adjust one or more configuration parameters in the target configuration model so that it satisfies both the customized configuration requirements and the preset configuration rules.

[0008] In addition, according to an aspect of the product configuration method of the present application, the method further includes: updating or iterating the general configuration parameters and preset configuration rules in the general configuration model.

[0009] In addition, according to a product configuration method in one aspect of the present application, the method further includes: creating a configuration application platform so as to receive customized configuration requirements based on the configuration application platform.

[0010] In addition, according to an aspect of the product configuration method of the present application, creating a universal configuration model for a product includes: creating a universal configuration model for a product based on a bill of materials (BOM) architecture.

[0011] According to another aspect of the present application, a product configuration device is provided, which includes: a general module for creating a general configuration model of a product, wherein the general configuration model includes general configuration parameters and preset configuration rules; a customization module for determining a target configuration model based on customized configuration requirements, wherein the configuration parameters in the target configuration model meet the customized configuration requirements and are one or more of the general configuration parameters; and a verification module for verifying whether the configuration parameters in the target configuration model meet the preset configuration rules, and if so, using the target configuration model as the customized configuration model of the product.

[0012] According to another aspect of the present application, an electronic device is provided, including: a memory for storing computer-readable instructions; and a processor for executing the computer-readable instructions so that the electronic device executes the product configuration method as described above.

[0013] According to another aspect of the present application, a computer program product is provided, comprising a computer program, wherein when the computer program is executed by a processor, the product configuration method as described above is implemented.

[0014] As described in detail below, the product configuration method according to the embodiments of this application creates a universal configuration model to fully cover the common configuration parameters required by customers, allowing for subsequent reuse for customized needs. A customized configuration model can be generated simply by tailoring the configuration parameters and verifying the pre-set configuration rules. This not only avoids the waste of manpower and time costs associated with time-consuming and labor-intensive redevelopment, but also significantly improves configuration efficiency and can be expanded to more scenarios.

[0015] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary, and are intended to provide further explanation of the technology as claimed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] The above and other purposes, features, and advantages of the present application will become more apparent through a more detailed description of the embodiments of the present application in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The accompanying drawings are intended to provide a further understanding of the embodiments of the present application and constitute a part of the specification. Together with the embodiments of the present application, they are used to explain the present application and do not constitute a limitation of the present application. In the drawings, the same reference numerals generally represent the same components or steps.

[0017] Figure 1 It is a scenario diagram illustrating an application scenario of the customized product configuration method according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0018] Figure 2 is a method flow chart illustrating a customized product configuration method according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0019] Figure 3 Schematic diagram of a product configuration device according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0020] Figure 4 FIG. 1 is a hardware block diagram illustrating an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0021] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating a computer program product according to an embodiment of the present application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] In order to make the purpose, technical solutions and advantages of this application more apparent, the following exemplary embodiments of this application will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only part of the embodiments of this application, rather than all the embodiments of this application, and it should be understood that this application is not limited to the exemplary embodiments described herein.

[0023] First, to facilitate the following description, the terms related to the embodiments of the present application are explained.

[0024] 1. CPQ (Configure, Price, Quote) refers to a software system or business process used in sales and customer service. Configuration can refer to product configuration (or configuration model), a technique that optimizes the combination of various software and hardware resources through a specific configuration method to meet specific customer needs. Specifically, product configuration typically includes both software and hardware configuration.

[0025] Among them, hardware configuration refers to the selection and combination of various physical components in the product. Taking a computer as an example, the hardware configuration includes the specific models and specifications of components such as the CPU, memory, hard disk, graphics card, motherboard, and power supply. Different hardware configurations will directly affect the performance, functions, and applicable scenarios of the product; software configuration: mainly involves the software system installed and used in the product and related parameter settings. Software configuration can be divided into operating systems, application software, and software parameter settings. Operating systems such as Windows, Mac OS, Linux, etc. have different characteristics and scopes of application. Application software depends on the purpose of the product, such as office software, design software, programming software, etc. Software parameter settings include functional options of various software, user preferences, etc. These settings will affect the operation mode and effect of the software.

[0026] 2. The Bill of Material (BOM) is a technical document that defines the product structure. It defines and expresses the structured component relationship structure of complex products and assemblies. It describes the composition of the product through component decomposition structure, relationships, and views, and organizes data and information related to the product structure and components. Throughout the product life cycle, the product structure and data are constructed and organized based on different business perspectives to form BOM views for different business areas to meet the needs of different business users for the management, viewing, and use of product data and information. The BOM runs through the R&D, design, production, and maintenance processes. It is the carrier for the transmission and sharing of product data throughout the entire life cycle, and is also an important reference document for various core business activities.

[0027] Taking servers as an example, an enterprise-level server typically consists of thousands of parts, including the motherboard, central processing unit (CPU), memory, hard drive, power supply, cooling system, chassis components, and numerous connectors, cables, screws, and fasteners. Servers are characterized by a large number of components, complex models and specifications, compact internal layout, high requirements for heat dissipation and electromagnetic compatibility, extensive supply chain collaboration, and frequent design iterations. As core data for server design, production, and maintenance, the integrity, standardization, consistency, and timeliness of component information in the BOM directly impact product quality, cost, and production efficiency.

[0028] Reference Figure 1 The application scenarios according to the embodiments of the present application are summarized.

[0029] Figure 1 : is a schematic diagram illustrating an application scenario of the customized product configuration method according to an embodiment of the present application. Figure 1 As shown, the application scenario at least includes: configuring a development platform 10 and configuring an application platform 20 .

[0030] Among them, different configuration models are developed for different products on the configuration development platform 10. After the configuration models are developed, they are deployed to the configuration application platform 20 so that users (such as configuration managers, product managers, etc.) can configure product instances (i.e., configuration results) that meet customer configuration requirements on the configuration application platform 20. Figure 2 The customized product configuration method of the embodiment of the present application is further described in detail.

[0031] Figure 2 1 is a flowchart illustrating a method for configuring a customized product according to an embodiment of the present application. Figure 2 As shown, the product configuration method may include at least the following steps.

[0032] In step S201 , a general configuration model of a product is created, wherein the general configuration model includes general configuration parameters and preset configuration rules.

[0033] In one embodiment of the present application, the general configuration parameters include hardware and / or software related to the product, and at least one specification corresponding to each piece of hardware and / or software.

[0034] In one embodiment of the present application, the preset configuration rules include constraints between a specification of each hardware or software and other specifications of other hardware or software, wherein the constraints include one or more of the following: compatibility, performance requirements, and cost constraints.

[0035] As mentioned above, in the prior art, product configuration models cannot be reused due to the different configuration requirements of each customer. To address the above problem, the embodiment of the present application proposes to create a universal configuration model on the configuration development platform 10, which includes the universal configuration parameters and preset configuration rules for all products. In other words, the universal configuration model can be understood as a large and comprehensive product configuration model. The universal configuration parameters include a list of hardware and / or software related to the product required by the customer on the market or in previous product configuration cases, as well as one or more specifications corresponding to each piece of hardware and / or software.

[0036] In an example embodiment of the present application, the product may be a server product, specifically a FusionOneHCI 23-KunLun G2280. The general configuration parameters corresponding to the product may include hardware parameters such as a motherboard, a chassis, and memory.

[0037] The motherboard includes seven specifications as shown in Table 1:

[0038]

[0039] Table 1

[0040] The chassis includes 9 specifications as shown in Table 2:

[0041] 8*2.5-inch hard drive chassis 12*3.5-inch hard drive EXP chassis 25*2.5-inch hard drive EXP chassis 8*2.5-inch hard drive chassis (3210,5220 dedicated) (completely disassembled) 8*2.5-inch hard drive chassis (completely knocked down) 12*3.5-inch hard drive EXP chassis (supports 2.6G 24Core / 32Core CPU) (complete parts) 12*3.5-inch hard drive EXP chassis (supports 2.6G 48Core / 64Core CPU) (complete parts) 25*2.5-inch hard drive EXP chassis (supports 2.6G 24Core / 32Core CPU) (all parts) 25*2.5-inch hard drive EXP chassis (supports 2.6G 48Core / 64Core CPU) (all parts)

[0042] Table 2

[0043] Memory includes five specifications as shown in Table 3:

[0044] 32GB RDIMM DDR4 3200MHz 1.2V 2Rank(2G*4bit) 64GB RDIMM DDR4 3200MHz 1.2V 2Rank(4G*4bit) 16GB RDIMM DDR4 3200MHz 1.2V 2Rank 32GB RDIMM DDR4 3200MHz 1.2V 2Rank(2G*4bit) 32GB RDIMM DDR4 3200MHz 1.2V 2Rank(2G*8bit)

[0045] Table 3

[0046] Furthermore, the above-mentioned general configuration model may be created based on the bill of materials (BOM) architecture.

[0047] In step S202, a target configuration model is determined based on the customized configuration requirements. Configuration parameters in the target configuration model satisfy the customized configuration requirements and are one or more common configuration parameters. As described above, a common configuration model has been created on the configuration development platform 10 in step S201. Because the configuration development platform 10 is a backend platform with a certain level of user experience, a configuration application platform 20 may also be created to facilitate user experience (e.g., configuration managers, product managers, etc.).

[0048] In one embodiment of the present application, the configuration application platform 20 can be an operation web page, and the above-mentioned general configuration parameters can be displayed on the web page in the form of multiple drop-down menus. When a customer proposes his own customized product requirements, the user can make corresponding selections on the configuration development platform 10.

[0049] In an exemplary embodiment of the present application, the configuration parameters corresponding to the requirements proposed by the customer include:

[0050] The motherboard includes two specifications as shown in Table 4:

[0051] 2*(Kunpeng 920, 48 Cores @ 2.6 GHz, 16 DIMM) 2*(Kunpeng 920, 64Core@2.6GHz, 16DIMM)

[0052] Table 4

[0053] The chassis includes two specifications as shown in Table 5:

[0054] 8*2.5-inch hard drive chassis 12*3.5-inch hard drive EXP chassis

[0055] Table 5

[0056] Memory has three specifications as shown in Table 6:

[0057] 32GB RDIMM DDR4 3200MHz 1.2V 2Rank(2G*4bit) 64GB RDIMM DDR4 3200MHz 1.2V 2Rank(4G*4bit) 32GB RDIMM DDR4 3200MHz 1.2V 2Rank(2G*4bit)

[0058] Table 6

[0059] Based on the above selections, the target configuration model is determined. In other words, the configuration parameters corresponding to the customer's customized requirements are a subset of the general configuration parameters. The embodiments of the present application develop a general configuration model to cover the customized requirements of different customers. By tailoring or filtering the general configuration parameters to meet each customer's specific needs, the waste of manpower and time costs caused by repeated development can be avoided, greatly improving product configuration efficiency.

[0060] In step S203, the configuration parameters in the target configuration model are verified to see if they meet the preset configuration rules. If so, the target configuration model is used as the customized configuration model for the product. As mentioned above, in step S202, the configuration parameters in the target configuration model have been determined. However, these configuration parameters must meet the preset configuration rules for normal operation, so this step is a pre-launch verification step.

[0061] Specifically, the target configuration model includes not only the parameters such as the motherboard, chassis, memory, etc. selected by the user in step S202, but also the related parameters (or sub-parameters) such as the CPU, hard disk, power supply, network card, graphics card, cooling system, etc. It is necessary to comprehensively consider whether these parameters and / or sub-parameters can meet the preset configuration rules before deciding whether to put the target configuration model on the shelf as a customized configuration model.

[0062] As mentioned above, the preset configuration rules can be understood as constraints between one hardware or software specification and other specifications of other hardware or software. In other words, the preset configuration rules can be based on the compatibility between hardware and / or software, as well as whether they can meet customer needs (such as performance requirements, cost constraints, etc.).

[0063] In an example embodiment of the present application, if the chassis selected by the user is an 8*2.5-inch hard drive chassis, then for compatibility reasons, the hard drive can only match 2.5 inches. If it is other specifications (such as 3.5 inches), a conflict will be displayed.

[0064] It should be noted that, because the preset configuration rules in the general configuration model are all the preset configuration rules between all the general configuration parameters, the preset configuration rules corresponding to the target configuration model are a subset of the preset configuration rules in the general configuration model.

[0065] Furthermore, if the configuration parameters in the target configuration model do not satisfy the preset configuration rules, one or more configuration parameters in the target configuration model are adjusted to simultaneously satisfy the customized configuration requirements and the preset configuration rules. In other words, if there is a conflict between the configuration parameters selected in step S202, the configuration application platform 20 will report an error to the user, prompting them to reselect until their selection satisfies the preset configuration rules and can be put on the shelf as a customized configuration model.

[0066] Furthermore, the common configuration parameters and preset configuration rules in the common configuration model can be updated or iterated periodically or conditionally. This means that as technology develops and customer needs evolve, the common configuration model is not static. Developers can regularly refine or maintain it to include more common configuration parameters, making them more comprehensive and effective. Furthermore, when a customer requires a configuration parameter not included in the common configuration parameters, it can be promptly added to the common configuration parameters to better serve the customer. Accordingly, as the common configuration parameters are adjusted, the preset configuration rules will also be adjusted accordingly.

[0067] Figure 3 Schematic diagram of a product configuration device according to an embodiment of the present application. Figure 3 As shown, the product configuration device 300 may include at least the following modules.

[0068] The general module 301 is used to create a general configuration model for a product, wherein the general configuration model includes general configuration parameters and preset configuration rules.

[0069] Among them, the general configuration parameters include hardware and / or software related to the product, and at least one specification corresponding to each hardware and / or software; the preset configuration rules include the constraints between a specification of each hardware or software and other specifications of other hardware or software.

[0070] Furthermore, the constraints include one or more of the following: compatibility, performance requirements, and cost constraints.

[0071] Furthermore, based on the bill of materials (BOM) architecture, a general configuration model for the product is created.

[0072] The customization module 302 is configured to determine a target configuration model based on customized configuration requirements, wherein configuration parameters in the target configuration model meet the customized configuration requirements and are one or more common configuration parameters.

[0073] The verification module 303 is used to verify whether the configuration parameters in the target configuration model meet the preset configuration rules. If they do, the target configuration model is used as the customized configuration model of the product.

[0074] Furthermore, if the configuration parameters in the target configuration model do not satisfy the preset configuration rules, one or more configuration parameters in the target configuration model are adjusted to satisfy both the customized configuration requirements and the preset configuration rules.

[0075] In addition, the product configuration device 300 may further include:

[0076] The application module 304 is used to create a configuration application platform so as to receive customized configuration requirements based on the configuration application platform.

[0077] The updating module 305 is configured to update or iterate the general configuration parameters and preset configuration rules in the general configuration model.

[0078] Figure 4 1 is a hardware block diagram illustrating an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present application. The electronic device according to an embodiment of the present application includes at least a processor and a memory for storing computer-readable instructions. When the computer-readable instructions are loaded and executed by the processor, the processor executes the product configuration method described above.

[0079] Figure 4 The electronic device 400 shown specifically includes: a central processing unit (CPU) 401, a graphics processing unit (GPU) 402, and a memory 403. These units are interconnected via a bus 404. The central processing unit (CPU) 401 and / or the graphics processing unit (GPU) 402 can be used as the above-mentioned processor, and the main memory 403 can be used as the above-mentioned memory for storing computer-readable instructions. In addition, the electronic device 400 may also include a communication unit 405, a storage unit 406, an output unit 407, an input unit 408, and an external device 409, which are also connected to the bus 404.

[0080] Figure 5 Schematic diagram of a computer program product according to an embodiment of the present application. Figure 5 As shown, a computer program product 500 according to an embodiment of the present application has a computer program 501 stored thereon. When the computer program 501 is executed by a processor, the product configuration method described with reference to the above figures is performed. The computer program product includes, but is not limited to, volatile memory and / or non-volatile memory. The volatile memory may include, for example, random access memory (RAM) and / or cache memory. The non-volatile memory may include, for example, read-only memory (ROM), a hard disk, flash memory, an optical disk, a magnetic disk, etc.

[0081] The product configuration method, apparatus, electronic device, and computer program product according to the embodiments of the present application have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings. The product configuration method according to the embodiments of the present application creates a universal configuration model to achieve full coverage of the universal configuration parameters required by customers, allowing for subsequent reuse for customized requirements. A customized configuration model can be generated simply by tailoring the configuration parameters and verifying the preset configuration rules. This not only avoids the waste of manpower and time costs caused by time-consuming and labor-intensive redevelopment, but also significantly improves configuration efficiency and can be expanded to more scenarios.

[0082] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the units and algorithm steps of each example described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in electronic hardware, or a combination of computer software and electronic hardware. Whether these functions are performed in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Professional and technical personnel can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0083] The basic principles of the present application have been described above in conjunction with specific embodiments. However, it should be noted that the advantages, strengths, and effects mentioned in this application are merely illustrative and not restrictive, and it should not be assumed that these advantages, strengths, and effects are required of each embodiment of this application. In addition, the specific details disclosed above are merely illustrative and facilitating understanding, and are not restrictive. The above details do not limit this application to necessarily being implemented using the above specific details.

[0084] The block diagrams of the devices, devices, equipment, and systems involved in this application are merely illustrative examples and are not intended to require or imply that they must be connected, arranged, or configured in the manner shown in the block diagrams. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, these devices, devices, equipment, and systems can be connected, arranged, or configured in any manner. Words such as "include," "comprise," "have," and the like are open-ended words, meaning "including but not limited to," and can be used interchangeably therewith. The words "or" and "and" used herein refer to the words "and / or" and can be used interchangeably therewith, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The word "such as" used herein refers to the phrase "such as but not limited to," and can be used interchangeably therewith.

[0085] Additionally, as used herein, "or" used in a list of items beginning with "at least one" indicates a separate list, so that, for example, a list of "at least one of A, B, or C" means A or B or C, or AB or AC or BC, or ABC (i.e., A and B and C). Furthermore, the word "exemplary" does not mean that the example described is preferred or better than other examples.

[0086] It should also be noted that in the system and method of the present application, each component or each step can be decomposed and / or recombined. Such decomposition and / or recombination should be regarded as equivalent solutions of the present application.

[0087] Various changes, substitutions, and modifications of the technology described herein may be made without departing from the teachings defined by the appended claims. Moreover, the scope of the claims herein is not limited to the specific aspects of the processes, machines, manufactures, compositions of things, means, methods, and actions described above. Currently existing or later developed processes, machines, manufactures, compositions of things, means, methods, or actions that perform substantially the same functions or achieve substantially the same results as the corresponding aspects described herein may be utilized. Accordingly, the appended claims include within their scope such processes, machines, manufactures, compositions of things, means, methods, or actions.

[0088] The above description of the disclosed aspects is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make or use the present application. Various modifications to these aspects will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other aspects without departing from the scope of the present application. Therefore, the present application is not intended to be limited to the aspects shown herein, but rather to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

[0089] The above description has been provided for the purpose of illustration and description. Furthermore, this description is not intended to limit the embodiments of the present application to the forms disclosed herein. Although a number of example aspects and embodiments have been discussed above, those skilled in the art will recognize certain variations, modifications, alterations, additions, and sub-combinations thereof.

Claims

1. A product configuration method, characterized in that: The method comprises: Creating a general configuration model for the product, wherein the general configuration model includes general configuration parameters and preset configuration rules; Determining a target configuration model based on the customized configuration requirement, wherein configuration parameters in the target configuration model meet the customized configuration requirement and are one or more of the general configuration parameters; Verify whether the configuration parameters in the target configuration model satisfy the preset configuration rules. If so, use the target configuration model as the customized configuration model for the product.

2. The product configuration method according to claim 1, wherein: The general configuration parameters include hardware and / or software related to the product, and at least one specification corresponding to each piece of hardware and / or software; The preset configuration rule includes constraints between a specification of each of the hardware or software and other specifications of other hardware or software.

3. The product configuration method according to claim 2, wherein: The constraints include one or more of the following: Compatibility, performance requirements, cost constraints.

4. The product configuration method according to claim 1, wherein: The method further comprises: If the configuration parameters in the target configuration model do not satisfy the preset configuration rules, one or more configuration parameters in the target configuration model are adjusted so that they satisfy both the customized configuration requirements and the preset configuration rules.

5. The product configuration method according to claim 1, wherein: The method further comprises: The general configuration parameters and the preset configuration rules in the general configuration model are updated or iterated.

6. The product configuration method according to claim 1, wherein: The method further comprises: A configuration application platform is created to receive the customized configuration requirement based on the configuration application platform.

7. The product configuration method according to claim 1, wherein: The creation of the general configuration model of the product includes: Based on the bill of materials (BOM) architecture, a general configuration model for the product is created.

8. A product configuration device, characterized in that: The device comprises: A general module, configured to create a general configuration model for the product, wherein the general configuration model includes general configuration parameters and preset configuration rules; a customization module, configured to determine a target configuration model based on customized configuration requirements, wherein configuration parameters in the target configuration model meet the customized configuration requirements and are one or more of the common configuration parameters; The verification module is used to verify whether the configuration parameters in the target configuration model meet the preset configuration rules. If so, the target configuration model is used as the customized configuration model of the product.

9. An electronic device, characterized in that: include: a memory for storing computer-readable instructions; as well as A processor is configured to execute the computer-readable instructions so that the electronic device executes the product configuration method according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

10. A computer program product comprising a computer program, characterized in that When the computer program is executed by a processor, the product configuration method according to any one of claims 1 to 7 is implemented.

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