Browser Diagramming System for Business Object Manipulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current self-service Web applications require technical savvy and plug-ins to manipulate complex workflows, schema definitions, and business objects, with graphical representations lacking functionality to affect underlying business logic, and existing solutions experience round trip delays in data transmission.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method and system that enables users to create and modify graphical representations of business processes and logic on a thin client browser, allowing selected actions on business objects to affect the underlying business logic, with a controller interfacing between the client and server to refresh the diagram and update the database accordingly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If graphical representations are used to represent business objects and workflows, then visual understanding and user interface are improved, but the representations lack functionality to affect underlying business logic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the graphical representation layer with the business logic layer by making the diagram elements (nodes, edges, shapes) directly editable and executable. When users modify the graphical representation, the changes are automatically propagated to the underlying business logic, database schemas, and workflow definitions, creating a unified system where visual and functional aspects are combined.
Solution Approach 2:
The graphical diagramming system is designed to serve multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a visual representation tool, an editing interface, a logic execution engine, and a database management system. The same graphical elements that provide visual understanding also serve as executable business logic containers that can trigger workflows, update databases, and control system behavior.
2Adaptability or versatility
If plug-ins are added to the browser to handle graphic, control and data handling requirements, then functionality is improved, but device complexity and maintenance burden increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the complex plug-in functionality and relocates it to the server side. Instead of requiring multiple browser plug-ins for graphic rendering, control handling, and data management, the system consolidates these functions into server-based components that communicate with the thin client browser through standard web protocols, eliminating the need for complex client-side plug-in installations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces a server-based intermediary layer that handles all complex processing between the simple browser client and the business logic/database. This intermediary manages graphic rendering, event handling, data transmission, and business logic execution, allowing the browser to remain simple while maintaining full functionality through the mediating server infrastructure.
3Extent of automation
If users are required to be technically savvy to manipulate complex workflows through web applications, then system control is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables non-technical users to perform complex workflow manipulations through an intuitive graphical interface. Users can drag and drop diagram elements, configure business logic through visual properties, and execute workflows without needing to understand underlying technical implementations. The system automatically handles the technical complexity of workflow execution, database updates, and system coordination.
4Ease of operation
If graphical programs are used to create representations of processes, then visual representation is improved, but the representations become static pictures without connection to business logic
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-configures graphical diagram elements with executable business logic capabilities before use. Each node, edge, and shape in the diagram is预先 equipped with the ability to represent and execute business processes, database operations, and workflow controls. This preliminary assignment of functionality ensures that visual elements are inherently connected to business logic from the outset, eliminating the disconnect between representation and execution.
Data Source
AI summary
A computer-implemented method of representing and manipulating a diagram that includes a representation of a plurality of interconnected business objects on a browser may include steps of displaying at least a portion of the diagram in an active area of the browser, displaying a diagram overview, the diagram overview including a representation of an entirety of the diagram and indicating a currently displayed portion of the diagram that is displayed in the active area. A selection of at least one of the plurality of business objects of the diagram displayed in the active area may be enabled. A selection of one of a plurality of canvas actions may then be enabled, each of the plurality of canvas actions enabling a user to take one of a corresponding plurality of actions on the selected at least one of the plurality of business objects. Contextual information regarding the diagram displayed in the active area may be displayed, as well as hierarchical information regarding the selected one of the business objects. The selected canvas action on the selected business object(s) may then be carried out. At least the active area of the browser may then be refreshed to display a revised portion of the diagram, the revised portion of the diagram incorporating any changes to the diagram as a result of carrying out the selected canvas action on the selected business object(s).