Batch Job Tree Interface for Complex Data Reformatting
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Solution Overview
Problem
The formation of batch jobs is often complex and non-intuitive, requiring manual editing with computer jargon-based commands and repetitive iterative processes, leading to inefficiencies and delays in processing multiple data files.
Innovation Solution
A graphical interface is provided that allows users to configure batch jobs through a tree-like structure, enabling the selection and association of input files and reformatting processes in a hierarchical manner, simplifying the formation and execution of batch jobs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If batch jobs are formed by manually editing executable files with computer jargon-based commands, then the batch job can be created, but the process becomes complex and non-intuitive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a batch job template as an intermediary between the user and the executable batch job. The template provides a pre-defined structure with placeholders that guides users through the batch job creation process, eliminating the need to manually write complex commands while still producing a functional batch job. This mediator simplifies the formation process by presenting only necessary information in a structured format.
Solution Approach 2:
The batch job template system enables users to create batch jobs independently without requiring knowledge of executable file formatting or computer jargon. The template automatically handles the structure and formatting, allowing users to simply fill in their specific parameters. This self-service approach empowers users to create batch jobs without external assistance or deep technical knowledge.
2Productivity
If batch jobs require iterative reentry of commands and designations of source files, then the batch job can be configured, but significant time is lost to repetitive processes
Solution Approach 1:
The batch job template contains pre-defined structures, commands, and formatting in advance. Users only need to fill in specific parameters rather than constructing the entire batch job from scratch each time. This preliminary preparation of the template structure eliminates repetitive iterative reentry and significantly reduces the time required to create batch jobs.
Solution Approach 2:
The batch job template serves as a reusable copy that can be applied multiple times with different parameters. Once a template is created, it can be copied and adapted for similar batch jobs, eliminating the need to re-enter commands and reconfigure structures repeatedly. Users simply instantiate the template with different input parameters for each new batch job.
3Reliability
If users must vigilantly attend to and continuously re-execute processing programs, then processing can be controlled, but user skills are inefficiently utilized and latency increases
Solution Approach 1:
The batch job enables continuous automated execution of processing programs without requiring user intervention between successive executions. The batch job file contains all necessary commands and parameters to execute multiple processing operations in sequence, allowing the system to maintain continuous useful action without user attention. This eliminates the latency and manual re-execution cycles while maintaining reliable control over the processing workflow.
Data Source
AI summary
A method, graphical interface and computer-readable medium for forming a batch job includes selecting at least one input file to reformat in the batch job. A batch job tree is formed for constructing a batch job with each of the input files being associated to a corresponding branch of the batch job tree. At least one reformatting process is associated with each of the input files on each branch of the batch job tree. A graphical interface for configuring a batch job includes a first interface pane for displaying and enabling selection of at least one input file, a second interface pane configured for interactively configuring a batch job tree representative of the batch job, and a third interface pane for associating at least one reformatting process to each input file.